how to raise norepinephrine naturally

Step 1 Engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week. A 1999 study at Duke University and published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that regular exercise was effective in decreasing symptoms of major depressive disorder. Exercise causes your body to increase its sensitivity to endorphins and stimulates production of norepinephrine. Regular physical activity also decreases your risk of serious chronic illnesses that can lead to depressed mood. According to the "Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience," exercise also increases serotonin levels in your brain, leading to improved mood. If you haven't exercised recently, begin slowly with a brisk walk and gradually increase the pace as you become more physically fit. Step 2 Add foods to your diet that are natural precursors for norepinephrine and serotonin. Precursors are substances that your body uses to produce other substances, including neurotransmitters. Tryptophan, which is found in foods such as red meat, eggs and diary products, is a precursor for serotonin. Dairy products, red meat and fish are examples of precursors for norepinephrine. Improving the quality of your diet to include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, fish and low-fat dairy products can help increase available serotonin and norepinephrine. In addition, a healthy diet can help you lose weight if necessary and reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Step 3 Increase your exposure to natural sunlight. Light boxes and other means of artificial light are often suggested in the treatment of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of seasonally mediated depression. According to the "Journal of Psychiatry & Neuroscience," exposure to the great outdoors, even on a cloudy day, can provide enough natural light to raise your serotonin levels. A 1990 study performed at Southern Illinois University found that serotonin levels in hamsters fluctuated with exposure to light and dark, increasing during periods of light exposure. Natural light also helps your body synthesize vitamin D which, according to the Vitamin D Council, is important for the balance of neurotransmitter levels in the brain. Step 4 Take supplemental phenylalanine in tablet or capsule form, according to manufacturer's directions. The University of Maryland Medical Center explains that this amino acid, found in animal proteins and soy products, increases your body's production of norepinephrine and dopamine. Low levels of both of these neurotransmitters are associated with depression, and supplemental amino acids like phenylalanine can help reduce depression caused by deficiencies of these neurotransmitters. The Medical Center cautions, however, that individuals who are considering supplemental phenylalanine check with their physician first because it can potentially interact with certain medications and medical conditions. Tips See your doctor before making significant changes to your diet, increasing physical activity, increasing sun exposure or using a dietary supplement. Natural Treatment of Depression With depression and mood disorders rising to epidemic levels, we need to move beyond the initial treatment options of psychiatry, namely medication, and embrace a more natural and complete treatment approach. Whether someone is clinically depressed or has a bad case of the blues, the keys are two neurotransmitters, namely norepinephrine and serotonin. Mainstream medicine has lost sight of the fact that nutrients in our diet are the precursors of neurotransmitters, just as nutrients make up 100% of the body. Amino acids are the precursors to every neurotransmitter, with the exception of acetylcholine. There are several ways to test for neurotransmitters to find out which ones are deficient, and which ones are causing a person’s feeling of depression. We’ll get to lab testing later. Medicine and psychiatry have assumed that serotonin is the main problem in depression, and so their first treatment approach is with an SSRI antidepressant (like Prozac, Paxil and Zoloft) to raise serotonin levels. After testing people for neurotransmitters since 1982, I’ve found that at least 65% of depressed people are deficient in norepinephrine and not serotonin. Some depressed people are deficient in serotonin and some are deficient in both norepinephrine and serotonin. How can you tell if your feeling of depression or the blues is a serotonin or norepinephrine problem? When norepinephrine is deficient, the person will feel depressed, and generally has an array of cognitive problems, such as decreased memory and concentration, brain fog, indecision, irritability, increased worry, anger, and insomnia. Serotonin deficiency is associated with depressed mood and insomnia. There can be some cognitive problems, but they are much less frequent and intense than in norepinephrine-related depression. Which Natural Way To Turn? Let’s say you’re feeling depressed due to a serotonin deficiency, and you want a natural approach (or you want a natural approach to help you get off medications). Do you supplement with St. John’s Wort, SAMe (S-adenosyl methionine), L-tryptophan, 5-HTP (5-hydroxy-tryptophan), omega-3 fatty acids, or magnesium? Before exploring which approach to take, let’s look at the biochemistry. The amino acid L-tyrosine enters the brain and is converted into the neurotransmitter dopamine, which then converts into norepinephrine. For an adult, 1000 mg of L-tyrosine twice a day will bring results. Tyrosine must be taken 45 to 60 minutes before or after breakfast and lunch. Protein is made up entirely of amino acids, and several amino acids will compete with tyrosine to cross the blood-brain barrier to get into the brain. L-tyrosine requires pyridoxal-5-phosphate, P-5-P, to get converted into norepinephrine. P-5-P is the active form of vitamin B6, pyridoxine, and must be taken as an enteric-coated capsule. If you purchase P-5-P in a capsule, it will do little good, for it will be broken down by stomach acids and rendered useless. The biochemistry that increases serotonin is similar to that of norepinephrine. The amino acid L-tryptophan, on an empty stomach, enters the brain, and in the presence of P-5-P, gets converted into 5-HTP and then serotonin. There is no controversy about whether L-tryptophan turns into serotonin, but there is debate about the efficacy of 5-HTP, which is unpredictable in getting into the brain. The simple equation is this: L-tyrosine, in the presence of P-5-P, increases norepinephrine brain levels. L-tryptophan, in the presence of P-5-P, increases brain serotonin levels. The total biochemistry is a long chain of events in which a weakness in any part of that chain will interfere with the goal of increasing a deficient neurotransmitter. In addition to L-tyrosine and L-tryptophan, other amino acids are implicated in mood. A study of 500 depressed people revealed a deficiency in the amino acid L-glutamine in 50% of the subjects. Lab Testing The most important lab test for depression is amino acid analysis. Amino acids, like L-tyrosine and L-tryptophan, are the “input” side to brain chemistry. Because almost all neurotransmitters are made from amino acids, treatment with amino acids is the first step in a natural approach. The second important lab test is for urine organic acids. These are the breakdown products of 40+ important biochemical processes. This is the “output” side of brain chemistry. The organic acid test includes testing for the breakdown products of catecholamines (norepinephrine and dopamine) and serotonin. If your VMA (from organic acid testing) is quite low, I know that you are deficient in norepinephrine. On the other hand, if your 5-HIAA (5-hydroxy-indolacetic acid) is low, you’re deficient in serotonin. Let’s look at how to understand the lab work. On amino acid testing, if L-tyrosine is low, chances are extremely high that you are deficient in norepinephrine, but I’ll want to look at the results of organic acid testing for confirmation. If L-tyrosine is low, VMA, the breakdown product of norepinephrine, is usually deficient. Similarly, on amino acid testing, if L-tryptophan is deficient, chances are very high that you are deficient in serotonin, but I’ll want to confirm that with the organic acid test. If 5-HIAA, the breakdown product of serotonin, is deficient, you have a serotonin deficiency. There’s a mathematical equation that tells us the likelihood of L-tyrosine or L-tryptophan working. To find out if L-tyrosine will work, taking the numerical values from the test, divide L-tyrosine by the denominator, which is leucine plus isoleucine plus valine plus phenylalanine plus tryptophan. If that number is .15 or less, chances are 80% that you will have a good response to treatment with L-tyrosine. A similar equation exists to predict the response to treatment with L-tryptophan. The science of treating depression by normalizing the brain’s nutritional deficiencies has been established for more than 40 years. The lab I use for amino acid and organic acid testing is Genova Labs. On occasion I’ll use Vitamin Diagnostics Lab, in New Jersey, to test for more than 10 different neurotransmitters. Their testing is based on research that has shown that the levels of neurotransmitters in blood platelets correlates strongly with brain levels of those neurotransmitters. I’ll go this route if I think someone might be deficient in acetylcholine, the lack of which causes severe memory problems and a feeling as if someone pulled the plug on mental energy. Links in the Chain The response to amino acid therapy depends on the weakest link in a chain of events. First, it’s important to identify and treat any problems with digestion and absorption from the gut. If the digestive tract is not running at 100%, absorption of nutrients declines. B vitamins are essential for this biochemistry. Nearly every B vitamin plays a role in brain chemistry, the most important ones being biotin, folic acid, P-5-P, and B12. So supplement with a multi-B vitamin. Vitamin C is also important, and is critical for the production of serotonin, norepinephrine, and for adrenal function. Minerals also play a role, the most important ones for neurotransmitters being magnesium, zinc, copper, and iron. Magnesium is the most important mineral for amino acid chemistry. If you’re depressed and feeling agitated, or fatigued, apathetic and slowed down, you are likely to have a magnesium deficiency. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are another link. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to alleviate depression. The balance of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids is important in maintaining healthy cell membranes. Given that the brain is 40% fat, we can’t ignore the role of EFAs. SAMe has become a popular natural treatment for serotonin-related depression. SAMe, a variant of the amino acid methionine, is a cofactor in the biochemical chain that produces serotonin. St. John’s Wort, an herb, has been found to be helpful in treating depression. There are a number of theories about how it works, and that research goes on. Many people ask why L-tyrosine is recommended to raise norepinephrine levels, instead of using the amino acid L-phenylalanine. Phenylalanine turns into L-tyrosine and will raise norepinephrine levels, but one should first go the L-tyrosine route, along with the needed cofactors, for a couple of months. If you are still depressed, or improving but still have a way to go, then add L-phenylalanine. Phenylalanine can raise blood pressure, so it’s not a first line treatment. Let’s summarize the initial supplements for treating depression: 1) L-tyrosine, L-tryptophan or both - depending on what the lab data indicates. 2) P-5-P, 3) B complex, 4) multivitamin, 5) multi-mineral, 6) magnesium, which needs to be taken with calcium to keep the two in balance, 7) Vitamin C, and 8) sublingual B12. The Anxiety-Depression Connection Many depressed people also feel anxious. For many people, correcting norepinephrine and serotonin will alleviate depression and anxiety. However, if anxiety persists, supplementing with GABA, up to 4 grams a day, is recommended. If GABA is helping you, do not think that more is better. At high doses GABA produces anxiety, rather than alleviating it. In treating depression with or without anxiety, there are a number of issues, beyond the normal biochemistry, to look at: 1) Sugar depletes B vitamins; 2) Nicotine depletes vitamins A, C, E, and B. It decreases vitamin C by 50%; 3) Caffeine stimulates the release of norepinephrine, but in the process depletes the brain of L-tyrosine, the precursor to norepinephrine; 4) Long-term excessive alcohol use can deplete almost all neurotransmitters, including norepinephrine, serotonin, GABA, and acetylcholine. Alcohol abuse will lead to depression. Alcohol treatment involves repairing all neurotransmitters, but GABA depletion is the lynch pin. A final consideration involves antidepressant medications. SSRIs (Paxil, etc) increase serotonin levels but, in the process, deplete the brain of L-tryptophan, which is stored in nerve endings. Bupropion (Wellbutrin), an antidepressant that increases norepinephrine levels, depletes the brain of its stores of L-tyrosine. As a result, these medications often start to lose their efficacy after many months. The usual psychiatric recommendation is to increase the dosage of that medication, rather than to supplement with the depleted amino acids. Optimal Mind In this series we’ve looked at conventional treatments for mood, such as medications, as well as natural ways of bringing the brain to an optimal level. A total approach also includes looking at our relationships, stressors, unresolved conflict, spiritual connection, and sense of purpose. If life is a horse and carriage, our sense of purpose is the horse, and its power will just pull our life forward automatically. Without a sense of purpose, our life is only the carriage. In that situation it takes a great deal of effort to get going, to feel happy, and motivated. While we don’t all have a clear sense of purpose, Wayne Dyer has explained that, for some, beginning to inquire about one’s purpose ——is one’s purpose. So, don’t wait to get that horse in place. My goal is to empower people by helping them develop a healthy brain, a peaceful and powerful mind, a spiritual connection, and a sense of purpose. With that holistic approach to life, people can go way beyond limiting thoughts about their potential for healing, success, and happiness. David Gersten, M.D. practices Nutritional Medicine and Integrative Psychiatry out of his Encinitas office and can be reached at 760-633-3063. Please feel free to access 1,000 online pages about holistic health, amino acids, and nutritional therapy at www.aminoacidpower.com and www.imagerynet.com. How to Increase Dopamine Naturally By Deane Alban Low dopamine levels can lead to lack of motivation, fatigue, addictive behavior, mood swings and memory loss. Learn how to increase dopamine naturally. man pointing up There are about 86 billion neurons in the human brain. They communicate with each other via brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that’s a key contributor to motivation, productivity, and focus. Let’s take a closer look at dopamine — what it does, the symptoms of deficiency, and how to increase it naturally. What Does Dopamine Do? Dopamine has been called our “motivation molecule.” It boosts our drive, focus, and concentration. It enables us to plan ahead and resist impulses so we can achieve our goals. It gives us that “I did it!” lift when we accomplish what we set out to do. It makes us competitive and provides the thrill of the chase in all aspects of life — business, sports, and love. Dopamine is in charge of our pleasure-reward system. (1) It allows us to have feelings of enjoyment, bliss, and even euphoria. But too little dopamine can leave you unfocused, unmotivated, lethargic, and even depressed. Dopamine Deficiency Symptoms People low in dopamine lack a zest for life. They exhibit low energy and motivation, and often rely on caffeine, sugar, or other stimulants to get through the day. ✓Dopamine Boosting Supplements See Amazon.com for best selection and value Many common symptoms of dopamine deficiency are similar to those of depression: lack of motivation fatigue apathy procrastination inability to feel pleasure low libido sleep problems mood swings hopelessness memory loss inability to concentrate Dopamine-deficient lab mice become so apathetic and lethargic they lack motivation to eat and starve to death. (2) Conversely, some people who are low in dopamine compensate with self-destructive behaviors to get their dopamine boost. This can include use and abuse of caffeine, alcohol, sugar, drugs, shopping, video games, sex, power, or gambling. It may sound cliche, but the truth is, the most natural way to increase mood-boosting chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine is through diet and exercise. There really aren't many ways around it. Sometimes even your best effort to get proper nutrition can still result in a lack of certain nutrients. In this case, taking natural supplements can help. Consult your physician before taking supplements or starting a new diet and workout regimen. Sponsored Link The SathonExpedia.co.th ฿950.51 จาก หาห้องพักที่ลงตัวได้ที่ Expedia Tryptophan Your body requires nutrients from your diet to produce important brain chemicals such as serotonin and norepinephrine. Tryptophan, in particular, is a key amino acid needed for your body to make serotonin. Leiden University researchers examined the effects of tryptophan depletion on mood and published their results in the May 2001 issue of the "Journal of Affective Disorders." They found that reduced tryptophan levels resulted in lowered mood. Tryptophan is commonly found in meat, eggs, cottage cheese and to a lesser extent in nuts. Tyrosine Tyrosine is an amino acid that is crucial to the production of norepinephrine, a substance that exerts a variety of physiological effects. One of those is to balance the effects of adrenaline so that you can focus and handle stress. A balanced diet that includes tyrosine-rich foods is a good way to boost your levels. Tyrosine is found primarily in fish, fowl and dairy, but you can also get it from avocados, bananas, nuts, lima beans and certain seeds such as sesame. Natural Supplements You can find natural supplement forms of tyrosine and tryptophan, both of which are efficient at increasing brain levels of these chemicals, according to Sylvester Vizi, author of "Handbook of Neurochemistry and Molecular Neurobiology." The natural forms of these supplements are in the "L" form, so look for L-tryptophan and L-tyrosine. They are commonly taken to improve mood and for insomnia, but doses vary. Only take these supplements under your doctor's supervision. Considerations Those most at risk for low levels of tryptophan and norepinephrine are older people, who are unable to assimilate nutrients as well as their younger counterparts, individuals who follow very strict diets and those with a history of mood issues. In addition to a well-balanced diet rich in these nutrients, 30 minutes of vigorous exercise is well known to boost both serotonin and norepinephrine. Understanding Our Adrenal System: Norepinephrine Vanessa Bennington Coach There is a lot of talk about adrenal health lately, particularly adrenal fatigue. Most of us get the gist of it. If you stress your body out too much, for too long your adrenals just up and quit on you. Most of us also understand that when our adrenals are not functioning properly our energy levels and moods suffer, as well as our mental and physical performance. But how many of us really understand the chemicals and hormones made by the adrenals? Norepinephrine I am going to explain these adrenal chemicals one by one, so we can all better understand the complex mechanisms of adrenal function and how to maintain or regain healthy adrenal function to maximize our athletic performance. The first chemical up is norepinephrine. adrenal fatigue, adrenal system, norepinephrine, adrenalin, stress hormonesNorepinephrine, also referred to as noradrenaline, along with epinephrine is what most of us think of as the “fight-or-flight” hormones. It’s technically a catecholamine, but it functions as a hormone and neurotransmitter and is produced by the adrenal gland, postganglionic neurons of the sympathetic nervous system, and part of the brain called the locus coerules. From the locus coerules, noradrenergic neurons branch out and form a system that enables norepinephrine to be delivered to different parts of the brain. In a similar fashion, the postganglionic neurons enable norepinephrine to be delivered directly to target organs and cells in the body. The adrenal glands dump norepinephrine directly into the blood. These mechanisms usually come into play when we are under stress. That release of norepinephrine (as well as epinephrine) is what gets your blood pumping and heart pounding, giving you the shakes when you’re put in a stressful situation. It triggers the release of glucose into the blood stream and increases blood pressure, heart rate, mental alertness, and respiratory rate. When released from the locus coerules, it has an anti-inflammatory effect on the brain. It also shunts blood away from the skin and to the heart, brain, muscles, and kidneys. (Ever wonder why you have to urinate constantly right before a super tough workout?) In other words, norepinephrine gets you ready to respond physically to a perceived stressor. It is also used as a drug to maintain blood pressure and treat bradycardia (slow heartbeat), among other things. adrenal fatigue, adrenal system, norepinephrine, adrenalin, stress hormonesNorepinephrine is synthesized by tyrosine, an amino acid, through a series of steps in the adrenal medulla and part of the sympathetic nervous system. L-tyrosine is converted to L-DOPA, L-DOPA to dopamine, and dopamine to norepinephrine. Norepinephrine is then stored in synaptic vesicles where it stays until something stimulates the release. Once released norepinephrine can bind with adrenergic receptor sites that enable it to carry out its actions (increasing heart rate, respirations, releasing glucose, etc.). Norepinephrine’s effects are then terminated by either the degradation of norepinephrine or its reuptake. However, there are many substances that either cause norepinephrine to be released or inhibit that release. There are also substances that influence the termination of norepinephrine’s effect on the cell. Since, we know that norepinephrine, in the right amounts and at the right time, is essential for optimal mental and physical health, it warrants a brief overview of some of the ways its production and actions may be altered. I won’t get into the specifics of disease processes and treatments. Just be aware that depression, anxiety, blood pressure problems, heart rate issues, and many other illness can be attributed, at least partially, to the deregulation of norepinephrine production and function in the body. We’ll address the specifics of disease processes and treatments related to adrenal function in another article in the future, but I want you to have a basic understanding of how norepinephrine production and function might be changed. First we need tyrosine available to make dopamine and eventually norepinephrine. If we don’t have enough of the raw materials we can’t make the hormone. Tyrosine is considered a conditionally essential amino acid. Most of the time, we do not need to actually ingest foods high in tyrosine. We can use phenylalanine, another amino acid that must be ingested, to make tyrosine. However, if the diet is lacking in phenylalanine then tyrosine is considered essential and we will need either supplementation or diet to be changed to include foods higher in phenylalanine and tyrosine. Foods high in phenylalanine include meat, fish, and some dairy like cottage cheese. Foods high in tyrosine include meat and dairy as well as bananas and seaweed. adrenal fatigue, adrenal system, norepinephrine, adrenalin, stress hormonesI mentioned above there are substances that can influence or inhibit the release of norepinephrine from the synaptic vesicle. These are called release modulators and can be broken down into inhibitory and stimulatory modulators. Substances like dopamine, acetylcholine, norepinephrine itself, epinephrine, 5-HT, adenosine, histamine, ATP, and enkaphalin cause the body to reduce the release of norepinephrine. This might seem weird since some of these are stress hormones and why would norepinephrine itself decrease its on release. To put it simply, once the body has enough of these hormones circulating, it will down regulate the release of more in order to maintain or return to homeostasis. Epinephrine (tricky devil, playing both sides) and angiotensin II both increase norepinephrine release. There are also substances that can alter the way norepinephrine’s actions are terminated, either by changing how norepinephrine binds with receptors or how it is taken up and out of the system. The results can either be an increase or decrease of its actions causing increased or decreased circulating norepinephrine or an increase or decrease in its ability to bind to receptors an initiate its effects. Drugs like cocaine, amphetamines, and antidepressants alter the reuptake of norepinephrine. Alpha and beta blockers (also drugs) alter how norepinephrine binds with receptors. So, there’s a lot that can go wrong when you look at all the things that can interfere with proper production and function of norepinephrine. We know that we want our norepinephrine production to be on point. Not too much. Not too little. Without that balance we develop problems involving our moods, energy levels (adrenal fatigue), blood pressure, and more. All of which can negatively affect your fitness, ability to reach your goals, and ability to enjoy your workouts. Are there ways in which you might need to examine your stress hormones? In part two, we discuss another piece of the adrenal puzzle - epinephrine. References: 1. Introduction to Autonomic Pharmacology. Elsevier International, (accessed February 28, 2013). 2. Rice University, "Norepinephrine." Accessed February 28, 2013. Photos courtesy of Shutterstock. Topic: Health & Medicine See more about: hormones, adrenal fatigue VANESSA BENNINGTON Vanessa Bennington found her way in the health and fitness worlds through a unique combination of education, personal experience, and self-experimentation. During high school, she dropped from a weight of around 140lbs on her 5’4″frame, to barely 90lbs. As you may have correctly guessed, there was no small amount of anorexia and bulimia involved. Battling an endless fight with eating disorders, Vanessa eventually stumbled from fat-free diets and endless cardio to a more... Read More Neurotransmitter, natural supplements, herbs, vitamins that increase levels by Ray Sahelian, M.D. Feb 13, 2013 Definition A neurotransmitter is defined as a chemical messenger which is released from the synaptic terminal of a neuron at a chemical synapse that diffuses across the synaptic cleft and binds to and stimulates the post-synaptic membrane. In simple words it is a chemical messenger released from one nerve cell which makes its way to another nerve cell where it influences a particular chemical reaction to occur. Neurotransmitters control major body functions including movement, emotional response, and the physical ability to experience pleasure and pain. The ones that are most familiar to the public are serotonin, norepinephrine, dopamine, acetylcholine, and GABA. Click on each link to find out how you can increase specific neurotransmitter levels through the use of natural supplements. If you would like to purchase some supplements, consider Hydroxytryptophan supplement to increase serotonin levels, and mucuna pruriens herb to increase dopamine levels. I have not found GABA supplements to be very effective in reducing anxiety although some people reports it helps them. Types present in the body Neurotransmitters can be broadly classified into several categories: Small molecule transmitters and neuroactive peptides. Around 10 small-molecule neurotransmitters are generally recognized: acetylcholine, 5 amines, and 3 or 4 amino acids, Purines, (Adenosine, ATP, GTP and their derivatives). Fatty acids Neuroactive peptides have been found, among them neuropeptide Y and hormones such as leutenizing hormone. Single ions, such as the mineral zinc are considered neurotransmitters by some. Gases such as nitric oxide Serotonin has many important influences Serotonin happens to be the most widely studied neurotransmitter since it helps regulate a vast range of psychological and biological functions. Serotonin (5-hydroxytryptamine or 5-HT) was first identified in 1948. The wide array extent of psychological functions regulated by serotonin involves mood, anxiety, libido, aggression, and thinking abilities. Other brain neurotransmitters, such as dopamine and norepinephrine, also influence mood and arousal. However, serotonin generally has different effects. For instance, excess amounts of serotonin cause relaxation, sedation, and a decrease in sexual drive. Prozac, a common antidepressant of the SSRI type, elevates serotonin levels in the brain. One of the common side effects of SSRIs is diminished sexual urge and sensation. There is a nutrient called 5-hydroxytryptophan 5-HTP that is the immediate precursor to serotonin. When ingested as a supplement, 5-HTP converts in the brain into serotonin. The substance 5-HTP is often used to treat depression and anxiety. Many people report that 5-HTP supplements decrease sex drive and interest. Dopamine benefit and physiological effects Dopamine is one of the most important neurotransmitters involved in the human sexual response. Dopamine has a significant effect on sexual desire. Plus, elevation of dopamine levels often leads to an improvement in mood and alertness. A number of psychiatric disorders, particularly Parkinson's disease and mood disorders, are attributed to imbalances in dopamine levels. Dopamine is made from the amino acid tyrosine. Once produced, dopamine can, in turn, convert into the brain chemicals norepinephrine and epinephrine. Some of the natural supplements that increase dopamine levels include NADH and CDP-choline. Acetylcholine neurotransmitter Acetylcholine was the very first neurotransmitter to be identified back in the early 1900s. It is made simply from choline, a natural substance found in lecithin, and a two-carbon molecule called acetyl. Acetylcholine plays numerous roles in the nervous system. In the brain, acetylcholine is involved in learning and memory whereas in the genital organs, acetylcholine is released by the parasympathetic nerves. Acetylcholine helps in the release of nitric oxide, which leads to the relaxation of smooth muscles and engorgement of the genital organs. Nutrients that elevate levels of acetylcholine include choline and CDP-choline. Norepinephrine and Epinephrine In the flaccid state of the penis, frequent release of norepinephrine from sympathetic nerves contracts the arteries in the penis and also contracts the smooth muscles of the corpora cavernosum. Therefore, in the normal state, norepinephrine keeps the penis soft. A relative predominance of norepinephrine-induced contraction over nitric oxide-mediated relaxation may contribute to erectile dysfunction. Two amino acids phenylalanine and tyrosine, sold as supplements, are converted into dopamine. Dopamine, in turn, is converted into norepinephrine, and then epinephrine. The ingestion of these amino acids elevates dopamine and norepinephrine levels, and hence will lead to alertness and mood elevation and increased sexual interest. However, excess amounts of norepinephrine and epinephrine may make it difficult to have erections. In addition, high amounts raise blood pressure, increase heart rate, and cause anxiety, irritability, and insomnia. Yohimbe, the natural sex booster from Africa, facilitates erections by blocking the inhibitory action of norepinephrine on the penis. Nitric Oxide: Say Yes to NO Nitric oxide (NO) is the most important neurotransmitter involved in the engorgement of genital organs leading to erections. I will mention NO several times Throughout this book, since some you will find herbs and nutrients that help in the formation of this chemical. For instance, the amino acid arginine can be metabolized into NO by an enzyme known as nitric oxide synthase. This conversion is done in endothelial cells, which are cells that line the inside of blood vessels. Ginseng, the popular herbal aphrodisiac, is also thought to increase NO levels. NO functions by activating an enzyme called guanylate cyclase. Guanylate cyclase, in turn, helps form cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP). cGMP becomes the secondary messenger that causes smooth muscle relaxation, resulting in venous engorgement and erections. Under normal conditions, cGMP helps the smooth muscles surrounding the arteries of the penis and the smooth muscles of the corpus cavernosum to relax. This allows blood to easily flow into the penis. Any condition that interferes with the signaling of these messenger enzymes can quickly lead to the breakdown of the entire process and cause erectile dysfunction. Viagra works by blocking an enzyme that breaks down cGMP, hence more of this chemical is left to help dilate the genital arteries. Interestingly, having adequate levels of androgen hormones in the body makes it easier for the genital organs to respond to nitric oxide. NO is a biological messenger molecule produced by one of the essential amino acids L-arginine by the catalytic action of the enzyme NO synthase (NOS). The dual role of nitric oxide as a protective or toxic molecule is due to several factors, such as; the isoform of NOS involved, concentration of NO and the type of cells in which it is synthesised, the availability of the substrate L-arginine, generation of guanosine 3,5'-cyclic monophosphate (cGMP) from soluble guanylate cyclase and the overall extra and intracellular environment in which nitric oxide is produced. GABA In the adult central nervous system (CNS), gamma-amino butyric acid (GABA) is a predominant inhibitory neurotransmitter, and is involved in relaxation. Thus, dysfunction of the GABA system is implicated in the pathophysiology of several neuropsychiatric disorders, including anxiety and depression. In mammals, 16 different polypeptides (alpha1-alpha6, beta1-beta3, gamma1-gamma3, delta, epsilon, pi, and theta) have been identified, using recombinant DNA techniques, each of which is encoded by a distinct gene. The products of these genes assemble in diverse combinations to form a variety of receptor subtypes that have different sensitivities to a number of clinically relevant compounds, such as the benzodiazepines (BZs). 2. Based on a number of chromosomal mapping techniques, the majority of the GABA(A) receptor genes have been localized, in man, in four clusters on chromosomes 4, 5, 15, and the X. Furthermore, the genes that are present within these clusters have a conserved transcriptional orientation. It has, therefore, been proposed that the clusters arose largely as a consequence of two whole-genome doublings that occurred during chordate evolution, and that the ancestral cluster contained an "alpha-like," a "beta-like," and a "gamma-like" subunit gene. Piracetam is a derivative of GABA. Supplements of GABA are also available, however it is unclear how effectively they can cross the blood brain barrier. Glutamate neurotransmitter The role of glutamate receptors in synaptic transmission and excitotoxicity in the nervous system is well established. Recent evidence has emerged that glutamatergic mechanisms also exist in a wide variety of non-neuronal cells. In the case of thymocytes and lymphocytes, several types of glutamate receptor are expressed which can induce functional changes. Glutamate may serve as a signaling agent between the immune and nervous systems. Histamine neurotransmitter Histamine has many actions in both the periphery and in the central nervous system. In the lungs, histamine acts the smooth muscle of the smaller bronchioles to cause constriction, and reduced air flow. In the stomach, histamine is involved in acid secretion. Neurotransmitter testing Many types of neurotransmitter tests are available to measure the levels of major neurotransmitters including serotonin, norepinephrine, epinephrine, GABA and dopamine. This testing can be done by urine, blood, or a spinal tap to measure levels in the spinal fluid. However, only in rare cases is it necessary to do such testing. Even if we know the blood level of these neurotransmitters, and we find a deficiency, it offers little help in guiding therapy since levels and production fluctuate easily from day to day and hour to hour. Neurotransmitter testing is not a reliable way to determine how a person will respond to a particular medicines or supplement for conditions such as depressions, anxiety, ADHD, etc. Neurotransmitter testing could reveal an imbalance that would be accurate for that particular time period only but testing days, weeks or months later could reveal completely different results. Testing is appropriate in cases of imbalance or excess in extreme conditions such as pheochrmocytoma and other clear cut medical conditions but not for the average person who does not have a very serious condition. Q. I respect your opinion and advice but I saw this quote "I am not convinced that testing for neurotransmitter levels adds to the clinical treatment of a patient'. and would like to share my experience. My daughter was unable to focus on her studies and suffered extreme fatigue. We had her tested for several things and nothing seemed to help. I found information that suggested her neurotransmitters may have been contributing to her condition. Several doctors refused to submit her to a urine and/or saliva test and finally we found a naturopath willing to submit the test and treat her depending on the results. She was severely unbalanced and a regimen was developed using vitamins and supplements to address the issue. In three months we noticed several changes for the better in her. She lost weight, had a better self-image, but most of all her ability to concentrate on any matter was improved. She has subsequently gone back to school and her grades have improved. We have high hopes that she will be able to complete her university education. BTW she is majoring in neuroscience. Hopefully someday there will be enough scientific evidence to encourage you to change your opinion. Thank you and keep up the good work. A. Many doctors, naturopaths and Oriental medicine doctors prescribe vitamins and supplements to their patients who end up improving. In almost all cases these improvements are done without neurotransmitter level testing. Neurotransmitter testing just adds to the cost of medical care, which most people in these tough economic times cannot afford. There may be cases where such testing is appropriate and helpful and we are glad your daughter was helped and we wish you and her well. Interpreting urine neurotransmitter levels is complicated Both stimulatory and inhibitory effects of dietary 5-hydroxytryptophan and tyrosine are found on urinary excretion of serotonin and dopamine in a large human population. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treatment. 2009; Trachte GJ, Uncini T, Hinz M. Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, University of MN Medical School Duluth, Duluth, MN, USA; Amino acid precursors of dopamine and serotonin have been administered for decades to treat a variety of clinical conditions including depression, anxiety, insomnia, obesity. Dietary administration of these amino acids is designed to increase dopamine and serotonin levels within the body, particularly the brain. Convincing evidence exists that these precursors normally elevate dopamine and serotonin levels within critical brain tissues and other organs. However, their effects on urinary excretion of neurotransmitters are described in few studies and the results appear equivocal. The purpose of this study was to define, as precisely as possible, the influence of both 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) and tyrosine on urinary excretion of serotonin and dopamine in a large human population consuming both 5-HTP and tyrosine. Curiously, only 5-HTP exhibited a marginal stimulatory influence on urinary serotonin excretion when 5-HTP doses were compared to urinary serotonin excretion; however, a robust relationship was observed when alterations in 5-HTP dose were compared to alterations in urinary serotonin excretion in individual patients. The data indicate three statistically discernible components to 5-HTP responses, including inverse, direct, and no relationships between urinary serotonin excretion and 5-HTP doses. The response to tyrosine was more consistent but primarily yielded an unexpected reduction in urinary dopamine excretion. These data indicate that the urinary excretion pattern of neurotransmitters after consumption of their precursors is far more complex than previously appreciated. These data on urinary neurotransmitter excretion might be relevant to understanding the effects of the precursors in other organs. Monoamine neurotransmitter These include serotonin, norepinephrine, GABA, glutamate, and dopamine. The monoamine hypothesis holds that mood disorders are caused by a depletion in one or more of these neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitter metabolism The process by which our bodies make, use, and break down neurotransmitters is extremely complicated. When there is a disruption within this process, abnormalities can occur in any of their essential functions. Acetylcholine is derived from Choline Serotonin [5-Hydroxytryptamine (5-HT)] is derived from tryptophan amino acid GABA is derived from Glutamate Histamine is derived from Histidine Epinephrine, norepinephrine and dopamine are derived from tyrosine amino acid Adenosine is derived from ATP Nitric oxide is derived from Arginine Neurotransmitters are responsible for transmitting information across the synaptic gap between neurons. Neurotransmitters are stored in synaptic vesicles. When action potentials are conducted down an axon, synaptic vesicles attach themselves to the presynaptic membrane, then break open and spill neurotransmitter into the synaptic cleft. Neurotransmitters in the synaptic cleft attach to postsynaptic receptor sites and trigger an action potential in the postsynaptic membrane. Some neurotransmitters attach to presynaptic neurotransmitter receptors (autoreceptors) located on the membrane (pre-synaptic membrane) of the cell that originally released them. Questions about natural supplements and how they influence neurotransmitter levels Q. I have been using Dr. Sahelian's formulated 5htp for some time now and it's been very good. My neurotransmitters became unbalanced just about when my hormones did. A nightmare. That's when I changed over to a naturopath (a woman, too) and she has enlightened my to things I'd never known. Now things have so improved. I am very happy to know him (through his books). He is a very learned man. Q. I currently go to a MD. He says there are no tests to measure neurotransmitters, so when he prescribes me anti-depressants it's a hit and miss basis. Effexor didn't work. I currently am trying Wellbutrin. Do you know of any tests to see which neurotransmitter is off and causing the depression I have? A. There are no routine blood tests to check neurotransmitter levels in the blood. There are advanced labs that can do this but there is no guarantee that blood levels reflect the levels in the central nervous system or would be useful in a practical manner in guiding the choice of an antidepressant. It may take trail and error to find the ideal way to treat depression with natural methods or antidepressant drugs. Q. I’d appreciate a list of herbs that modulate or reduce catecholamine neurotransmitters (both epinephrine and norepinephrine) as well as any known to support PNS activity. A. See the links for dopamine at the top of the page. Q. My 32 y.o. daughter has been on Abilify for several years and wants to get off as she is concerned about side effects. She had neurotransmitter tests which showed she was low in dopamine and serotonin. Do you have supplements for this? A. There are countless hormones, substances and chemicals in the body that have an influence on mood, behavior, and cognitive abilities. Sometimes focusing on one or two oversimplifies the complexity of all the physiological functions of the body. Nevertheless, you will find links to the respective neurotransmitters. Q. I have had testing done by a company (I won't mention the name) for neurotransmitter levels. They point out that the neurotransmitters undergo a daily variation and are greatly influenced by uncontrolled daily stressors. They have people test a certain time after waking but before going to work, etc. They have done something like half million reference tests on healthy individuals to get their optimal ranges. Since they started with around 300 tests, those optimal ranges have changed very little, so they have stood the test of time. They also make it very clear that neurotransmitters are present in the central and peripheral nervous system, so the tests are not diagnostic, but are biomarkers. There are trends that show up consistently relating to certain symptoms or conditions. I think in general maybe you can't measure neurotransmitter levels, but there are many research papers that say otherwise. I think it's all about how you do it, as in the above mentioned testing. One article I will reference was recently in the Townsend Letter: "Urinary Neurotransmitter Analysis as a Biomarker for Psychiatric Disorders" by Amnon Kahane, MD. A. There is still a wide gap between testing for neurotransmitter levels and determining which form of therapy and in what dosage would work best. Neurotransmitter levels can be influenced on a daily basis by diet, activity level, sleep patterns, stress, and a number of factors. As of January 2014, I am not convinced that testing for neurotransmitter levels adds to the clinical treatment of a patient. Q. My name is Marty L. Hinz, MD, President Clinical Research, NeuroResearch Clinics, Inc. Cape Coral, Florida USA. There is a recently published peer reviewed literature relating to neurotransmitters and neurotransmitter testing. I attached a chapter from a new medical text book edited by Ingrid Kohlstadt, MD of Johns Hopkins Medical School and a writing by the University of Minnesota Medical School that is in the May 2009 Journal of NeuroPsychiatry. Of concern is laboratory companies out there that are promoting neurotransmitter testing trying to test basic neurotransmitter science that is not supported by the literature and these peer reviewed articles. A. A review of the chapter written by D. Marty L. Hinz, M.D. that was attached in the email leads to a section that says, TABLE 29.1 The “Generic Amino Acid Dosing Protocol” (milligrams of 5-HTP / milligrams tyrosine) If relief of symptoms is not obtained with level 3 dosing, obtain urinary neurotransmitter testing. Use of proper levels of cofactors and sulfur amino acids is required for optimal results LEVEL AM NOON 4 PM 7 PM 1 150/1500 150/1500 2 150/1500 150/1500 300/1500 3 150/1500 150/1500 300/1500 300/1500 The generic protocol developed for treatment of neurotransmitter dysfunction disease relating to the catecholamine system and/or serotonin system involves the use of tyrosine, 5-HTP, and cofactors. Results do not appear to be dependent on taking the amino acids with or without food. The following cofactors need to be used along with the amino acid precursors: • Vitamin C 1000 mg/day • Vitamin B6 75 mg/day • Calcium 500 mg 500 mg/day In addition • Cysteine 4500 mg/day in equally divided doses • Selenium 400 mcg/day • Folic acid 2000 to 3000 mcg/day Dr. Sahelian comments: I am concerned that many people on this protocol will have heart rhythm disturbances and insomnia. Tyrosine can cause heart rhythm problems in as a low a dosage as 250 mg. I also do not believe that urinary neurotransmitter testing is necessary, it is just an additional expense. I have not seen any peer reviewed published research that demonstrates that repeatedly testing urinary neurotransmitter levels leads to a better outcome for patients who are depressed. Many people with mild to moderate depression may find mood elevation with using 50 to 100 mg of 5-HTP supplements bought online or in a health food store without incurring the expense of doctor visits and neurotransmitter testing. Others benefit from SAM-e and St. John's wort. Some people who promote these kinds of tests are likely to monetarily profit from the testing. There have been countless people who have recovered from their depression without incurring the costs of such urinary neurotransmitter testing. I am also concerned about the high dosages of selenium. Studies have shown that high amounts, usually over 100 mcg a day, can reduce longevity. I am a 37 year old female who has been battling severe brain fog, fatigue and fibromyalgia for over 4 years now. Time and time again, your website has provided much necessary information that has helped me on my road to recovery and I thank you for the value you have given! I am also writing in hopes that you'll share a bit more of your wisdom with me, as I have hit a mental roadblock... (literally and figuratively). My neurotransmitter test results are showing extremely high levels of Glycine, Epinephrine, GABA, PEA, Histamine and elevated levels of Dopamine, Serotonin and Glutamate. Also, I have extremely low Taurine and low Norepinephrine, (also low DHEA, Testosterone and high Pregnenolone). My present doctor does not know how to treat these imbalances and I have no idea where else to turn for help. Do you know any doctors experienced with neurotransmitters who treat patients using natural means that you can suggest? Do you know where a layman such as myself can gather information that will enable me to construct a course of action? Any light you can shed on neurotransmitters would be beneficial and greatly appreciated. I do not find neurotransmitter testing to be a useful or cost effective way to determine a diagnosis or form a good treatment. The most important issues that have to be addressed is to make sure there are no obvious medical reasons for the fatigue. Next, one has to make improvements in exercise habits, proper diet, and obtain a good sleep each night. Yoga is very helpful in improving all the symptoms you mention. You can begin with relaxation yoga classes. After all these basic lifestyles improvements have been made, then one can try different natural supplements to see if there are any additional benefits. I would like to enquire if it is safe to take Adrenal Stress End with a brain boosting formula. I have had a urine neuro transmitter which is showing low seratonin, gaba and dopamine and high noadrenaline and adrenalinemain symptom is burning / cold / buzzing sensation throughout the body like numbness and pins & needles. It is best to take the Adrenal Stress End on a different day. The Only Two Ways to Raise Brain Serotonin Levels Submitted by ihtadmin on 31 August 2015 - 10:22am The following article was written by Dr. Gary Kohls. Serotonin is probably the most important neurotransmitter in the brain because it naturally and effectively treats depression, anxiety and insomnia, as well as symptoms such as fatigue, irritability, agitation, anger, aggression, hostility, impulse dyscontrol and a variety of other mood issues. Serotonin’s role in neurological, bowel, vascular and mental health issues has been known for decades and, since the approval by the FDA (in the late 1980s) of a handful of expensive, dangerous and addicting drugs known as the SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors), has been heavily exploited by the pharmaceutical industry (hereinafter known as BigPharma). Serotonin was first discovered in the bloodstream of animals in the 1950s or 60s as an important natural vasoconstrictor (causing constriction of blood vessels) and blood coagulant. Several decades after those discoveries the serotonin molecule was re-discovered in the brain, where it was found to function as an important neurotransmitter (a natural biochemical, one of as many as 60 others – most of them still a mystery to neuroscientists - in the complex brain, that allows nerve impulses in various brain neurochemical systems whose transmission is otherwise electrical). Serotonin was ultimately found by basic science neuroscientists to have only one common precursor in the human diet. That precursor substance is an amino acid (the basic small molecule building blocks of proteins) known as l-tryptophan. Tryptophan is one of the eight amino acids found in the proteins that humans can normally obtain only through their diets. These eight amino acids (of 20 amino acids commonly found in dietary proteins) cannot be manufactured from other sources and are thus is known as “essential” amino acids. (Amino acids such as tyrosine, the precursor of the natural antidepressants dopamine, norepinephrine and adrenalin can be metabolized by humans from phenylanaline - which is one of the other “essential” amino acids.) It is important to re-emphasize that the natural antidepressant serotonin can only be increased in the body and brain by the ingestion of one of it’s two precursor amino acids – tryptophan (which is found in protein, protein powder nutritional supplements or as an amino acid supplement) and/or 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), an amino acid that is extracted from a bean from Africa. The claims of BigPharma that the SSRI drugs increase serotonin levels in the brain is really only a clever partial truth (a plausible “white lie”). In actuality, SSRI drugs only temporarily and momentarily increase the levels of serotonin in the gap between serotonin nerves (called the “synapse”) while – long term – they actually decrease and wasting the stored-up serotonin in the pre-synaptic nerves. The serotonin is actually depleted by the SSRIs well-advertised and, at the same time, poorly explained function: the inhibiting (= disabling) of the reuptake pump’s physiologically normal recycling of the neurotransmitter back into the pre-synaptic nerve, which allows repeated reuse of the same serotonin molecules for future nerve impulse transmission. Thus, the unadvertised result of repeated inhibition of the reuptake mechanism is the long-term depletion (and destruction by synaptic enzyme systems) of serotonin directly because of the drug’s major mechanism of action. This depletion of stored-up serotonin helps to explain the phenomenon of “Prozac Poop-Out” which commonly results in the need to increase the dosage of an SSRI to obtain the same artificially stimulating effect or to avoid the common withdrawal symptoms that happen when the drug is stopped abruptly, the dose decreased or the synapse function altered and/or damaged. Patients on any number of prescription or illicit brain-altering drugs commonly develop withdrawal symptoms by just staying on the (increasingly ineffective) initial dose (a “poop-out” phenomenon also known as “tolerance”). Tolerance happens with the regular use of dependency-inducing drugs such as dopamine/norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor psychostimulants such as cocaine, the amphetamines (including Adderall), methamphetamine, Ecstasy, Effexor, Wellbutrin and the cocaine-like drug Ritalin) or the GABA agonists such as the tranquilizers/anti-anxiety drugs/hypnotics/sleeping pills such as Valium, Xanax, Klonopin, Restoril, Ambien, Lunesta, etc. The basic science realities of the amino acid-derived dopamine and GABA – and the dangerous synthetic drugs that BigPharma uses to exploit basic neuroscience and cunningly market their patented, highly profitable and addictive products - will be dealt with in forth-coming articles. But the important issue of this article (especially for people who want to take control of their own emotional and mental health issues) is that synthetic brain-altering drugs, which are all lethal at a certain dose (as opposed to the benign and healthy neurotransmitter precursors), never, never cure mental ill health. At best, they only mask symptoms that are often misinterpreted as representing “mental illnesses”. Indeed, neurological dysfunction caused by psychotropic drugs is almost universal. These unintended adverse effects commonly cause symptoms that mimic mental illnesses. (See the extensive lists of adverse neurotoxic and psychotoxic “adverse” effects of any prescription psych drug in the dispensing pharmacy’s product insert or in the PDR [Physician’s Desk Reference] to confirm this reality for yourself.) Amino acid therapy for a variety of emotional issues has been proven to be an important adjunct in the cure of uncounted numbers of patients fortunate enough to know about brain nutrient therapy before getting on drugs. Again, it is important to reiterate that serotonin can only be increased in the brain (or body, since 90% of the serotonin in the body is in the intestinal system – accounting for the many gastro-intestinal “side effects” caused by the SSRI drugs) by eating the proper food or supplementing the diet with the amino acid supplements L-Tryptophan and/or 5-HTP, along with various co-factors that facilitate the metabolic process in the serotonin brain cell’s manufacturing process. Adequate amounts of these co-factors are best obtained by taking therapeutic doses of magnesium, zinc, folic acid, vitamins C and B6. Unfortunately, of the amino acids in the protein foods we humans commonly consume, tryptophan is the scarcist one of them all. The proteins that contain the most tryptophan include white meat, dairy protein, beans, egg whites, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, peanuts, lentils and bananas. The amounts of tryptophan in those foods still contain only a fraction of what are found in the dietary supplements L-Tryptophan and 5-HTP. As an example, it would take 100 grams of pumpkin seeds to yield the brain serotonin that could be derived from one 500 mg capsule of tryptophan or one 50 mg capsule of 5-HTP. It needs to be noted that this basic brain science report about holistic mental health is for informational purposes only and is not meant to be a prescription for any given person, especially for people who are already taking psychotropic drugs. For patients who want further information concerning dosages of the mentioned supplements, they should consult a nutritionally-oriented health practitioner or books such as Depression-Free for Life (Cousens), Prescription for Nutritional Healing (Balch), 5-HTP: Nature’s Serotonin Solution or Mind Boosters (both by Sahelian), Heal With Amino Acids (Sahley and Birkner), The Mood Cure (Ross), among others. For advice on information about the toxicity of, and the problems concerning withdrawal from, psychotropic drugs, it is advised that people read books such as Prozac Backlash and The Antidepressant Solution (both by Glenmullen), Your Drug May Be Your Problem, Medication Madness and Toxic Psychiatry (all by Breggin), Madness in America: Bad Science, Bad Medicine and the Maltreatment of the Mentally Ill (Whitaker). I close this article with an important excerpt from a book entitled The War Between Orthodox Medicine and Alternative Medicine, obtainable for free at www.cancertutor.com and authored by R. Webster Kehr of the Independent Cancer Research Foundation, Inc. “While the major job of the FDA is to suppress all scientific evidence for alternative treatments for cancer and heart disease prevention, that is not all they do. It is also their job to suppress the availability of alternative medicines. They are masters at that too." “As it turns out, there are alternative medical treatments for depression. Foremost among these is L-Tryptophan, a critical amino acid the body cannot manufacture for itself. Both L-Tryptophan and Prozac work with serotonin, a chemical that has to do with how we feel." "Elevated levels of serotonin in the body often result in the relief of depression, as well as substantial reduction in pain sensitivity, anxiety and stress. Prozac, as well as other new anti-depressant drugs such as Paxil and Zoloft, attempt to enhance levels of serotonin by working on whatever amounts of it already exist in the body (these drugs are known as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors). None of these drugs, however, produce serotonin. In contrast, ingested L-Tryptophan acts to produce serotonin, even in individuals who generate little serotonin of their own. The most effective way to elevate levels of serotonin would be to use a serotonin producer rather than a serotonin enhancer." Dean Wolfe Manders, Ph.D. in http://www.ceri.com/trypto.htm “Thus it is clear that L-Tryptophan and Prozac are in competition with each other. Prozac is a drug that fools the body and L-Typtophan is an amino acid that creates more serotonin. Prozac, and similar drugs, have been shown to have deadly side-effects. But I won't get into that." “So what is the FDA going to do? It is deadly Prozac versus harmless and far more effective L-Tryptophan. This is what they did: In the fall of 1989, the FDA recalled L-Tryptophan, an amino acid nutritional supplement, stating that it caused a rare and deadly flu-like condition (Eosinophilia-Myalgia Syndrome — EMS). On March 22, 1990, the FDA banned the public sale of dietary L-Tryptophan completely. This ban continues today.” (Ed. Note: The ban was eventually lifted about a decade later.) On March 26, 1990, Newsweek featured a lead article praising the virtues of the anti-depressant drug Prozac. Its multi-color cover displayed a floating, gigantic green and white capsule of Prozac with the caption: “Prozac: A Breakthrough Drug for Depression.” "The fact that the FDA ban of L-Tryptophan and the Newsweek Prozac cover story occurred within four days of each other went unnoticed by both the media and the public. Yet, to those who understand the effective properties of L-Tryptophan and Prozac, the concurrence seems unbelievably coincidental. The link here is the brain neurotransmitter serotonin — a biochemical nerve signal conductor. The action of Prozac and L-Tryptophan are both involved with serotonin, but in totally different ways." “You need to understand that it takes far more than 4 days to get an issue of Newseeek out the door. Thus, the magazine was working on the Prozac article weeks before the FDA issued their order. You should also understand that the FDA did not prove that L-Tryptophan was dangerous. They banned it because a drug company issued a contaminated batch of L-Tryptophan." “Normally, when a drug company issues a bad batch of a product, which is quite common, the FDA fines the company and may have some other punishment for the company. But the FDA does not ban the product! But in this case the FDA banned the harmless and useful product. Its real crime? Competing with Big Pharma." “This "double standard" is standard operating procedure for the totally corrupt FDA. Thus we have a situation where Congress has allowed for several decades for tobacco products to be manufactured and sold, which are known to kill hundreds of thousands of Americans every year, but at the same time Congress has allowed the FDA to ban L-Tryptophan." "The public availability of L-Tryptophan is too important an issue only to be argued and shrouded within a scientific debate that remains, ultimately, mystifying to the vast majority of Americans. There are many obvious facts worthy of public attention, and public concern. For example, consider the following: On February 9, 1993, a United States government patent (#5185157) was issued to use L-Tryptophan to treat, and cure EMS, the very same deadly flu-like condition which prompted the FDA to take L-Tryptophan off the market in 1989. Notwithstanding its public ban and import alert on L-Tryptophan, the FDA today allows Ajinomoto U.S.A. the right to import from Japan human-use L-Tryptophan. Distributed from the Ajinomoto plant in Raleigh, North Carolina, the L-Tryptophan is then sold to, and through, a network of compounding pharmacies across the United States. Purchased by individuals only under a physician's order, L-Tryptophan emerges as a new prescription drug in the serotonin marketplace; one hundred 500 mg capsules cost about $75 — approximately five times more than if they were sold as a dietary supplement. Since the FDA holds the political mandate and power of a public regulatory agency established, ostensibly, to protect people from raw corporate interests in drug production and distribution, the actions of the FDA in concert with Ajinomoto U.S.A. are illuminating. By publicly banning L-Tryptophan from its dietary supplement status and price, while allowing L-Tryptophan to be sold as a high-priced prescription drug, the naked duplicity of FDA L-Tryptophan policy is revealed. During and after the 1989 EMS outbreak, the FDA did not totally ban the use of L-Tryptophan in humans — then, as today, the FDA has granted the pharmaceutical industry the protected right to use L-Tryptophan in hospital settings. Manufactured by Abbott Laboratories, the amino acid injectable solutions Aminosyn and Aminosyn II contain as much as 200 mg of L-Tryptophan. (Moreover, L-Tryptophan has never been removed from baby food produced and sold within the United States.) ”While the FDA has banned the public sale and use of safe, non-contaminated, dietary supplement L-Tryptophan for people, the United States Department of Agriculture still sanctions the legal sale and use of non-contaminated L-Tryptophan for animals. Today, as in the past, feed grade L-Tryptophan continues to be used as a nutritional and bulk feed additive by the commercial hog and chicken farming industry. Additionally, L-Tryptophan is now available for use by veterinarians in caring for horses and pets. Outside of the United States, in countries such as Canada, the Netherlands, Germany, England, and others, L-Tryptophan is widely used. Nowhere, have any serious or widespread health problems occurred." Dr. Kohls, prior to his retirement, practiced holistic mental health care utilizing non-drug approaches to treatment. He observed in his patients countless examples of neurotoxic, psychotoxic, addictive and withdrawal effects from many of the commonly prescribed psychotropic drugs, which had often been prescribed in various combinations, none of which had been approved by the FDA for any indication Surprising Research Challenges Our Understanding of Norepinephrine Deficiency and Natural Remedies for Depression Problems with attention, focus, depression, anxiety, and sleep have long been attributed to norepinephrine deficiency. But research shows that the relationship is more complex than it seems. Kathleen Jade, N.D. 1 inShare 3 Comment Email This Post Email This Post Print This Post Print This Post Kathleen Jade, N.D. • 10/12/2015 • Affiliate Disclosure ISurprising Research Challenges Our Understanding of Norepinephrine Deficiencyf you’ve ever screeched to a halt to avoid an accident and felt your heart race and your breathing quicken, you’ve felt some of the effects of norepinephrine, a key player in the fight-or-flight response. But that’s not all it does; this neurotransmitter (in the nervous system) and hormone (in the blood) plays a vital role in memory, attention, and mental focus, too. That’s why norepinephrine deficiency has traditionally been associated with problems with focusing, sleeping, and a host of other ailments. To understand how research is challenging this view, let’s take a look at how norepinephrine works. Norepinephrine and the stress response Norepinephrine is most active when you are awake and under stress. It is produced by neurons in the brain, some parts of the sympathetic nervous system, and adrenal glands. In response to stress, your brain signals your adrenal glands to release norepinephrine, cortisol, and epinephrine. Norepinephrine and epinephrine and are involved in the fight-or-flight response, causing increased breathing and heart rate, the release of glucose from energy stores, and a wide variety of additional physiological responses. Learn 5 ways to solve the depression dilemma in our free 18-page report, 5 Natural Depression Therapies: How to Use Natural Antidepressants to Beat Depression. You'll find natural, simple strategies that you can implement today! Download it here. Norepinephrine deficiency and prolonged stress In the early stages of prolonged or severe stress, the stress response system is overactive and norepinephrine and other adrenal stress hormone levels are typically elevated. This increases arousal, amplifies the emotional reaction to stress, and can manifest as insomnia, anxiety, depression, irritability, or emotional instability. But prolonged stress leads to underactivity of the stress response system, resulting in norepinephrine deficiency, along with cortisol and epinephrine depletion.[1] This lowers arousal and can result in low energy, daytime fatigue, concentration/focus issues, and general apathy.[1] Norepinephrine levels and attention, mood, and sleep As a neurotransmitter in the brain, norepinephrine is important for attentiveness, emotions, sleeping, dreaming, and learning. Because it is so important for proper attention and learning, it is logical to assume that people who lack the ability to pay attention and maintain focus have a norepinephrine deficiency. However, the story is really much more complex than that. Research suggests that norepinephrine excess, rather than norepinephrine deficiency, is linked to attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Norepinephrine excess and ADHD Two studies have shown that children with ADHD actually have high norepinephrine as measured by 24-hour urine collection.[3,4] One group of researchers further discovered that higher urinary norepinephrine levels were associated with more severe hyperactivity.[4] The same study showed that after one month of treatment with pine bark extract (Pycnogenol), norepinephrine levels decreased significantly and correlated with improvement in ADHD symptoms. A note about measurement of norepinephrine levels: Currently, 24-hour urine collection is thought to be one of the best ways to measure neurotransmitters.[2] However, no technique can reveal the exact level of neurotransmitters in specific regions of the human brain. Nor can any laboratory technique assess whether brain neurotransmitters like norepinephrine are getting properly transported, binding adequately to their receptors, or functioning properly. For these reasons, neurotransmitter testing is not used in today’s medical system to diagnose any psychological disorders. Nevertheless, the levels measured from 24-hour urine collection are thought to generally correlate with levels in the nervous system, including the brain. Therefore, this is the best method available to analyze norepinephrine levels in brain/nervous system.[2] Norepinephrine in depression and anxiety Because norepinephrine also plays a key role in emotional regulation, it is also linked to mood disorders like depression and anxiety. While it may seem logical to assume that anyone suffering from depression or anxiety must have a neurotransmitter deficiency, including a norepinephrine deficiency, research doesn’t fully support this assumption, Some studies, in fact, report excess norepinephrine in people with depression and anxiety.[5,6] In general, people with depression have high norepinephrine levels (as measured by 24-hour urinary output) compared to people without depression.[5] One study found that higher levels of depressive symptoms are associated with increased norepinephrine excretion in the urine.[6] Another study, however, found that some individuals had decreased levels of norepinephrine (as measured by urinary excretion of one of the neurotransmitter’s metabolites), while others had increased levels of the same metabolite. Symptoms of anxiety are also associated with increased norepinephrine excretion in the urine.[6] Researchers have concluded that in both depression and anxiety, high urinary output of norepinephrine reflects abnormal sympathetic nervous system activity and may be a cause of the higher rates of certain chronic diseases associated with these conditions.[6] Norepinephrine and sleep Norepinephrine also promotes arousal and alertness. It’s not surprising, then, that excess norepinephrine has been linked to poor sleep. A recent study looked at sleep patterns and measured norepinephrine levels in the urine of healthy adults who had no significant sleep, psychiatric, or medical problems.[7] The participants completed detailed 2-week sleep diaries and had their sleep-wake cycles objectively measured for three nights by wearing a wrist device. Compared to normal sleepers, people who spent an excessive amount of time lying awake in bed had significantly higher levels of epinephrine as measured by 24-hour urine levels. The researchers hypothesized that the increased urinary norepinephrine levels reflected excessive activity of the sympathetic nervous system, which has been linked to an increased risk of developing obesity, metabolic syndrome, and high blood pressure. So even though these patients were considered healthy and did not have severe sleep problems, their poor sleep quality and increased norepinephrine levels may increase their risk for chronic disease. What to do if you have symptoms of norepinephrine imbalance If you have symptoms of a possible norepinephrine deficiency or excess, there are a number of natural healing steps you can take. Taking active steps to decrease stress in your life, along with regularly practicing relaxation and stress reduction techniques, may help lower excessive norepinephrine. Since norepinephrine is made from dopamine (with the help of copper and vitamin C), taking precursors to dopamine, such as the amino acids tyrosine and phenylalanine, may help to boost low norepinephrine levels. You’ll find some great ideas in these articles: 8 Natural Dopamine Boosters to Overcome Depression 4 Dopamine Supplements for Improving Mood and Motivation Share your experience Share your ideas and experiences with the Natural Health Advisory community. Are you currently experiencing symptoms of norepinephrine deficiency or excess? What natural remedies have you tried and how have they worked? Please share in the comments section below. You can also visit us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, or reach the editor directly here. Drop us a line anytime to let us know how we’re doing and how we can help you to meet your healthy living goals naturally. References [1] Psychiatry Clin Neurosci. 2014 Jan;68(1):1-20. [2] Neurosci Biobehav Rev. 2011 Jan;35(3):635-44. [3] Psychiatry Res. 1989 Mar;27(3):241-51. [4] Nutr Neurosci. 2007 Jun-Aug;10(3-4):151-7. [5] Arch Gen Psychiatry. 1988 Sep;45(9):849-57. [6] J Psychosom Res. 2004 Oct;57(4):353-8. [7] Sleep. 2011 Feb 1;34(2):225-33. This blog originally appeared in 2014 and has been updated. Permalink: http://www.naturalhealthadvisory.com/daily/depression-and-anxiety/surprising-research-challenges-our-understanding-of-norepinephrine-deficiency/ 8 Natural Dopamine Boosters to Overcome Depression Are you motivated, focused and feel pleasure easily? If not, low dopamine levels in your brain may be the reason. Learn how to improve drive, focus, and concentration with these 8 natural dopamine boosters. Jami Cooley, RN, CNWC 15 inShare 157 4 Email This Post Email This Post Print This Post Print This Post Jami Cooley, RN, CNWC • 10/21/2015 • Affiliate Disclosure Natural dopamine boosters can help you take back your health! How? First, you need to understand that depression is a disease. In many cases, it is caused by actual physiologic changes in your brain. Therefore, when you feel depressed, don’t think of it as a defect in your personality; rather, think of depression as you would any other illness. If you have a broken bone, you need to wear a cast to stabilize the bone while it heals. Likewise, if you have depression, you need to address the underlying root “problem” in your brain. And, one of those underlying root problems just might be a dopamine deficiency. If so, the good news is that you are not powerless to overcome depression caused by insufficient levels of dopamine. You can use natural remedies to increase dopamine levels in your brain. Learn 5 ways to solve the depression dilemma in our free 18-page report, 5 Natural Depression Therapies: How to Use Natural Antidepressants to Beat Depression. You'll find natural, simple strategies that you can implement today! Download it here. What is dopamine? Dopamine is the brain chemical that allows us to have feelings of bliss, pleasure, euphoria, drive, motivation, focus, and concentration. But let’s start at the beginning: Your brain actually communicates with itself. That is, you have an intricately-linked system of nerve cells called neurons that “communicate” with each other via specialized receptor sites. Dopamine is a chemical (neurotransmitter) that is used by the nerves to send “messages”. When a nerve releases dopamine, it crosses a very small gap called a synapse and then attaches to a dopamine receptor on the next nerve. Therefore, when dopamine levels are depleted in the brain, the nerve impulses, or “messages”, cannot be transmitted properly and can impair brain functions: behavior, mood, cognition, attention, learning, movement, and sleep. How do I know if I have a dopamine deficiency? When there is too little dopamine, emotions cannot be correctly regulated. Mental impulses that mitigate intense feelings of sadness are inhibited; therefore, the most common signs of a dopamine deficiency are the same signs associated with clinical depression (and more specifically, major depressive disorder): Dopamine Deficiency Symptoms Extreme dopamine deficiency, as in the case of Parkinson’s disease, causes a permanent and degenerative diminishing of motor skills, including muscle rigidity and tremors. 8 Natural Dopamine Boosting Strategies: #1 – Decrease your sugar intake. Sugar alters brain chemistry by disrupting dopamine levels, which is one reason why people often experience a “sugar high” shortly after eating sweets. Just as alcohol and drugs can deplete dopamine levels, sugar does the same. In fact, sugar stimulates the exact same euphoric pathway targeted by alcohol and drug use; that is, the decreased dopamine levels lead to actual sugar addictions. Whether initiated by alcohol, cocaine, or sugar, the compulsive behavior addiction is the same – an undeniable desire for dopamine. Limiting sugar intake will help fight this addictive dopamine depletion-sugar craving cycle. If you struggle with a sweet tooth, you can take chromium picolinate supplements to help decrease your sugar cravings.[1,2] #2 – Take tyrosine. When your brain cells need to “manufacture” neurotransmitters for proper mood regulation, they use amino acids as the essential raw material. Amino acids are the building blocks of protein; there are 20 different amino acids that make up the protein our body needs. The brain uses the amino acid l-phenylalanine as the source (precursor) for the production of dopamine. Phenylalanine is one of the “essential” amino acids, that is, the body cannot make it on its own so we have to get it from the foods we eat or from supplements. Once the body receives phenylalanine, it can convert it to tyrosine, which in turn is used to synthesize dopamine. So the way to increase central nervous system neurotransmitter levels is to provide proper amounts of the amino acid precursors. Boosting your dopamine levels sufficiently by supplementing with tyrosine is the recommended action.[3,4] To learn more about tyrosine supplements – including the proper dosage and the best time to take the supplements – download our comprehensive guide, Natural Remedies for Depression: Beating Depression Without Drugs. The guide also includes additional supplements that increase dopamine levels in the brain. Everyone is different so some of these supplements may work more effectively for you than tyrosine. Also, some people find alternating supplements of similar purpose keeps the effectiveness higher than taking only one for the duration. Download the guide today, and learn about these safe, alternative natural therapies. Read more about dopamine boosting supplements here. #3 – Eat bananas. Bananas, especially ripe bananas, are an exceptional food for regulating dopamine because they have a high concentration of tyrosine. Other food sources of tyrosine include almonds, apples, watermelons, cherries, yogurt, beans, eggs and meats. It is important to note that foods alone generally do not have the therapeutic amino acid levels necessary to boost dopamine levels for someone experiencing major depressive disorder. Therefore, to boost your dopamine levels adequately, tyrosine supplementation is often needed. #4 – Decrease caffeine intake. Even though coffee gives you the energy boost you need, just like sugar, it only offers temporary relief and may actually be doing more harm than good. After experiencing the initial kick caffeine offers, dopamine levels in the body decrease. So, go for a cup of decaf or at least minimize consumption of coffee to counter dopamine deficiency.[5] #5 – Set a routine schedule. Set a routine schedule with adequate time for work and rest. Ideally, your 24-hour day should include at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night in combination with periods of physical activity. Under-sleeping and/or over-sleeping combined with lack of regular exercise can drain the brain of dopamine. Why? Proper sleep gives the brain time to recuperate from the day and recharge its stores of neurotransmitters. And, regular physical activity increases blood circulation to influence the presence of many different hormones within the brain, affecting dopamine levels. So, one of the easiest ways you can boost dopamine is to get in a healthy routine and stick to it. #6 – Decrease stress levels. High stress levels are also strongly correlated with dopamine deficiency. Stress can be caused by two sources: poor adrenal function and chronic daily life stressors. While we can’t always control our circumstances, there are “stress safeguards” you can utilize to help you deal with the day-in and day-out anxieties. Remember, if stress is not handled properly, it can be devastating to your health. So, establish an ongoing plan that enables you to deal with stress effectively. #7 – Correct a magnesium deficiency. Magnesium deficiency can cause decreased levels of dopamine, and natural health experts estimate over half of the US population to be deficient in this relaxation mineral. If you’ve been eating a diet heavy in junk foods or processed foods, you probably have a magnesium deficiency! Common symptoms include food cravings (salt or carbs), constipation, high blood pressure, rapid heartbeat or palpitations, muscle pains and spasms, fatigue, headaches, and depression symptoms such as mood swings, anxiety and irritability. There are blood and urine tests that your doctor can perform to see if you have a magnesium deficiency. However, these tests may not always be accurate since most of the body’s magnesium stays in the cells, rather than in the bloodstream or the urine. There is one lab test called a sublingual epithelial test, which is more effective because it checks for magnesium in the cells, where most of it is present. To perform this test, your doctor will scrape under your tongue with a tongue depressor to obtain epithelial cells, which are then sent to a lab for analysis. Schedule this test with your doctor or start increasing your intake of magnesium.[6] #8 – Take vitamins for depression. Dopamine is easily oxidized. So, the antioxidants contained in vitamins (such as vitamins C and E) protect the health of brain neurons that use dopamine. For this reason, many integrative physicians recommend daily multi-vitamins to their patients to help protect neurons from free-radical damage. If you are not taking a daily multi-vitamin, start doing so today. Taking vitamins is a good way to make sure you’re getting an ample daily supply of the key nutrients you need to be healthy – both physically and mentally.[7] Give us your experience with boosting dopamine levels What has worked for you to increase drive, motivation and focus? Share with other readers your experience in the Comments section below. Your remarks can always be anonymous. Another major neurotransmitter related to depression is serotonin. Read more about serotonin deficiency symptoms here and how to boost levels here. [1] “A Real Sugar High?” Psychology Today, January 1, 2003. [2] “Sugar Can Be Addictive.” Princeton University Department of Psychology and Neuroscience Institute, December 10, 2008. [3] University of Maryland Medical Center. [4] “Tyrosine Depletion Lowers Dopamine Synthesis.” Brain Research, 2008 Jan. [5] “Differential Effects of Caffeine on Dopamine and Acetylcholine Transmission in Brain Areas of Drug-naive and Caffeine-pretreated Rats.” Neuropsychopharmacology. 2002 Aug; 27(2). [6] “Evidence for the involvement of the monoaminergic system in the antidepressant-like effect of magnesium.” Progress in Neuro-psychopharmacology & Biological Psychiatry, 2009 Mar 17;33(2):235-42. Epub 2008 Nov 27. [7] Harvard School of Public Health. This article was originally published 2012 and has been updated. Permalink: http://www.naturalhealthadvisory.com/daily/depression-and-anxiety/8-natural-dopamine-boosters-to-overcome-depression/ 4 Dopamine Boosters to Improve Depression Symptoms, Mood, and Motivation Lack focus, motivation, or have a difficult time staying alert or completing tasks? If so, these are likely dopamine deficiency symptoms. Banish depression symptoms and much more with these simple supplements. Kathleen Jade, N.D. Tweet 0 inShare 3 Email This Post Email This Post Print This Post Print This Post Kathleen Jade, N.D. • 09/17/2015 • Affiliate Disclosure 4 Dopamine Supplements for Improving Mood and MotivationWhen we think about depression, lack of motivation, or difficulty focusing and concentrating, the well-known brain chemical (neurotransmitter) serotonin often comes to mind. While it’s true that low serotonin is a problem for many people with depression and other mental health issues, researchers have known for years that other neurotransmitters are also involved. A study published in JAMA Psychiatry in the year 2000 reported that people with clinical depression also have significantly lower brain levels of the neurotransmitter dopamine.[1] Since then, we’ve learned a lot about dopamine’s role in mood and mental health and about what can be done to restore low dopamine levels. Loss of pleasure, loss of motivation, and not having enough focus or concentration to get things done can all be dopamine deficiency symptoms, as can the characteristic “slowness” of many people with depression. While most pharmaceutical drugs designed to increase dopamine are associated with significant and serious adverse effects, scientists have discovered and clinically tested a number of natural dopamine boosters that can safely increase dopamine levels within the brain and are generally without side effects. Natural and integrative physicians have been successfully using these ingredients to help patients with depression, anxiety, low motivation, and other symptoms of low dopamine. Learn 5 ways to solve the depression dilemma in our free 18-page report, 5 Natural Depression Therapies: How to Use Natural Antidepressants to Beat Depression. You'll find natural, simple strategies that you can implement today! Download it here. What is dopamine? Dopamine normally gets triggered when you approach and expect a reward. With the release of dopamine in the brain comes a good feeling and a surge of energy so you can reach your reward. Dopamine motivates you to seek, alerts your attention to things that meet your needs, and motivates you to persist in your pursuit of those things that meet your needs. Your brain rewards you with dopamine each time you take steps towards a new goal. Without enough dopamine, your motivation goes caput and you’re unable to experience pleasure from activities usually found enjoyable, e.g. exercise, hobbies, music, sexual activities or social interactions. In other words, dopamine deficiency causes a bad case of the “blahs.” The four supplements presented here—L-Tyrosine, Rhodiola, Mucuna, and L-theanine—have each been found in studies to increase dopamine and/or help balance dopamine function in the brain. They can be used as natural dopamine boosters to improve mood and motivation and to treat dopamine deficiency symptoms like depression, fatigue, lack of interest in life, poor memory, and impulsive behaviors. 4 Key Dopamine Supplements: L-Tyrosine. The conditionally essential amino acid tyrosine is a precursor of catecholamine neurotransmitters, including dopamine. It can be taken through the diet (especially from meat, eggs, and fish) or synthesized in the body. Tyrosine forms DOPA, which is then converted to dopamine, and this, in turn, forms norepinephrine, another neurotransmitter related to mood. By supporting production of neurotransmitters like dopamine, L-tyrosine supplements can enhance mood, sleep, emotional well-being, and cognitive/mental function, especially under situations involving environmental and emotional stress or when dopamine levels require additional support (some people are genetically programmed to make too little dopamine).[2-4] Start by taking one 500 mg capsule of L-tyrosine. If you feel no benefits within 30 minutes, take a second capsule, and a third in another thirty minutes if you still feel nothing. Continue by taking one to three 500 mg capsules 2-3 times a day, early morning, midmorning, and midafternoon. Decrease the dose if you feel agitated or your blood pressure increases. Mucuna. Mucuna pruriens, commonly known as velvet bean, naturally contains up to 5% L-Dopa (levodopa). L-DOPA is the same biochemical that is made in humans from the amino acid L-tyrosine and is then synthesized into dopamine. When taken as a supplement, the L-DOPA from Mucuna can cross the blood-brain barrier to elevate brain dopamine levels. Powdered mucuna seeds have long been used in Indian traditional medicine as support in the treatment of various illnesses, including Parkinson’s. Recently, studies utilizing Mucuna supplements have shown promising results not just for Parkinson’s but for other conditions related to dopamine deficiency, including depression and psychological stress.[5-7] Mucuna extract has been shown to increase not only dopamine concentrations, but also other neurotransmitters that affect mood, such as serotonin and norepinephrine.[8] Look for an extract of Mucuna pruriens standardized to contain 15% L-DOPA. Take 300 mg twice a day. L-theanine. L-theanine is an amino acid uniquely found in green tea that creates an alert state of relaxation without drowsiness. L-theanine is known to be able to cross the blood-brain barrier and increase dopamine levels in the brain. Animal studies show that L-theanine also increases brain serotonin and GABA. It has anti-depressant and anti-anxiety effects, reduces mental and physical stress, and leads to improvements in learning and memory in humans and animals.[9,10] Even just a single, small dose of L-theanine (100 mg) significantly improves the ability to pay attention and maintain focus compared to placebo.[11] Take 200 mg of L-theanine 2-3 times daily. Rhodiola. Rhodiola rosea, or ‘golden root’, is a popular plant in traditional medicine in Eastern Europe and Asia, with a reputation for improving depression, enhancing work performance, eliminating fatigue and treating symptoms resulting from intense physical and psychological stress. Rhodiola exerts its benefits via multiple effects on the central nervous system, including enhancing the stability of dopamine and supporting its reuptake. This leads to notable decreases in depression, anxiety, and fatigue, as well as an increased ability to handle stress.[12] In human studies, rhodiola has been shown to significantly reduce depression, anxiety, and stress-related fatigue compared to placebo.[13-15] Look for a rhodiola extract derived from Rhodiola rosea root and standardized to contain 3% total rosavins and a minimum 1% salidrosides. Take 170 mg twice a day. Multivitamin. Certain minerals and B-vitamins, especially zinc, vitamin B6, and folate, are necessary for dopamine synthesis and neurotransmission. These nutrients are often depleted in individuals due to medications, inadequate diets, excessive stress, and toxic environmental exposures, compromising the ability to properly synthesize neurotransmitters like dopamine. A high-potency, high-quality multivitamin/mineral supplement can help replenish these co-factors, enhancing neurotransmitter function and playing a complementary role in supporting emotional wellness Potential side effects, precautions, and drug interactions Too much dopamine is dangerous and needs to be avoided. Do not take more than one dopamine supplement at a time without first consulting with a healthcare practitioner, preferable one trained in integrative or natural medicine. Similarly, do not use these supplements if you are taking methyldopa, antidepressants, or antipsychotic drugs without first consulting with a physician. Tyrosine and Mucuna pruriens may also interact with some nutritional supplements, including St. John’s Wort, 5-HTP, Tryptophan, and SAMe. Therefore, you should also consult your healthcare practitioner before combining these supplements. Do not take these supplements if you are a pregnant or lactating woman. Additional ways to increase dopamine and improve your mood In addition to taking dopamine supplements, there are also other ways to naturally increase dopamine. For instance, do you know which foods are natural dopamine boosters and which foods can deplete dopamine? Working towards a goal can also increase dopamine. By repeating small steps to reach a goal, you can re-wire the dopamine pathways in your brain, ultimately teaching your brain to give you a dopamine surge every time you take that small step. You can also increase dopamine by developing an active, regular, stress reduction practice.[16] And because depression has multiple underlying causes, such as adrenal or hormonal imbalances, or nutritional deficiencies, you may be interested in our Comprehensive Guide to Depression which helps you easily identify and develop simple treatment plans based on evidence-based natural medicine for each of depression’s underlying causes. Also, be sure to read about Serotonin Deficiency and Serotonin Supplements. [1] Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2000 Aug;57(8):787-93. [2] Biol Psychiatry. 2005 May 1;57(9):999-1003. [3] C R Acad Sci III. 1988;306(3):93-8. [4] Altern Med Rev. 2009 Jun;14(2):114-40. [5] Evid Bas Comp Alt Med. 2010;7(1):137-144. [6] Inventi Impact Ethnopharm. 2013;797. [7] Pharm online. 2010;1:537-551. [8] Orient Pharm Exp Med. 2013 Jun;13(2):143-148. [9] Phytother Res. 2011 Nov;25(11):1636-9. [10] Nutr Neurosci. 2013 Jul 23. [11] Neuropharmacology. 2012 Jun;62(7):2320-7. [12] Phytother Res. 2007 Jan;21(1):37-43. [13] Nord J Psychiatry. 2007;61(5):343-8. [14] J Altern Complement Med. 2008 Mar;14(2):175-80. [15] Planta Med. 2009 Feb;75(2):105-12. [16] Neurosci Lett. 2010 Jul 26;479(2):138-42. Originally published in 2013, this post has been updated. Permalink: http://www.naturalhealthadvisory.com/daily/depression-and-anxiety/dopamine-supplements-for-improving-mood-and-motivation/ Tweet 0 inShare 3 Email This Post Email This Post Print This Post Print This Post Related Posts 8 Natural Dopamine Boosters to Overcome Depression NHA Library – Digital Subscription How to Beat Depression Naturally: News Bulletin for October 4, 2013 Surprising Research Challenges Our Understanding of Norepinephrine Deficiency and Natural Remedies for Depression Experts Discuss Unsuspected Causes of Depression, Mental Illness and Violent Behavior in America: News Bulletin for August 30, 2013 Posted in Depression and Anxiety. Tagged with anxiety, clinical depression, depression, depression anxiety, depression research, dopamine deficiency symptoms, dopamine supplements, Fatigue, folate, food, green tea, integrative physicians, memory, Natural Dopamine Boosters, natural dopmaine, natural medicine, parkinsons, people with depression, serotonin, side effects, vitamin c, zinc. How to Beat Depression – Identify the Root Cause! If you’re wondering how to beat depression without drugs like Prozac or Zoloft, it’s imperative that you identify what is triggering your depression in the first place. Once you know the underlying root cause, you can discern how to beat depression naturally by taking targeted supplements. Jami Cooley, RN, CNWC 0 inShare 1 Comment Email This Post Email This Post Print This Post Print This Post Jami Cooley, RN, CNWC • 01/30/2013 • Affiliate Disclosure How to Beat Depression Once and For All!You’re a health-conscious consumer. You understand that taking prescription anti-depressants long-term can have serious consequences to your health, but you just don’t know which supplements or alternative therapies work best. Perhaps you’ve even tried a nutritional product in the past and it had little to no effect on improving your mood. Or, you’ve searched online for natural depression remedies and discovered an abundance of contradictory information that left you feeling overwhelmed and confused. Are you done with trying to figure out how to beat depression without drugs and have succumbed to taking meds for the rest of your life? If you feel like giving up on naturally remedies altogether, then what follows is for you! How to Beat Depression Naturally? Identify the Root Cause! Many natural remedies for depression do not function the same way for everyone. You see, each individual has unique underlying causes that trigger their depression symptoms in the first place. Therefore, a supplement that works for one person may not work at all for someone else. Choosing a supplement that works best for you will be dependent on the unique root cause of your depression. So, how do you figure out what’s causing your sad mood? Read over these 7 root causes of depression below and make note of the signs and symptoms that apply to you. Once you’ve identified the etiology that pertains to you specifically, you can select the natural treatments that will work best for remedying your depression. Learn 5 ways to solve the depression dilemma in our free 18-page report, 5 Natural Depression Therapies: How to Use Natural Antidepressants to Beat Depression. You'll find natural, simple strategies that you can implement today! Download it here. 1. How to beat depression if you have a serotonin deficiency. Is the type depression you have one where you are negative, pessimistic, distrustful, gloomy, or you have low self-esteem and worry a great deal? Do you crave sweets and feel better when you eat them? If so, you likely have a serotonin deficiency. Serotonin is an important chemical that helps relay signals from one area of the brain to the other. It plays a key role in psychological functions and is responsible for a feeling of calmness and well-being. Of the approximately 40 million brain cells, most are influenced either directly or indirectly by serotonin. This includes brain cells related to sleep, memory, learning, temperament, appetite and social behavior. An imbalance in serotonin levels can alter a person’s mood and ultimately lead to depression. To learn more about how to recognize if you have a have a serotonin deficiency and more importantly, what you can do about it, read our articles: 7 Serotonin Deficiency Symptoms That You Can Identify Yourself Serotonin Deficiency – A Root Cause of Your Depression Symptoms? 2. How to beat depression if you have a dopamine deficiency. Do you suffer from lack of focus, motivation, drive, energy, or the ability to stay alert and complete tasks? If so, you likely have a dopamine deficiency. Dopamine is the brain chemical that allows us to have feelings of bliss, pleasure, euphoria, drive, motivation, focus, and concentration. It affects brain processes that control movement, the ability to experience pleasure and pain, and emotional response. When there is too little dopamine, emotions cannot be correctly regulated. Mental impulses that mitigate intense feelings of sadness are inhibited, and thus depression ensues. Learn more about signs of a dopamine deficiency and natural dopamine boosters: 8 Natural Dopamine Boosters to Overcome Depression 3. How to beat depression if you have a sex hormone imbalance. When trying to dig down to depression’s underlying root causes, abnormalities in the level of sex hormones certainly is a major consideration. Unless you correct reproductive hormone level irregularities, you likely will not achieve complete long-term healing from your depressive symptoms. Men – One chief cause of depression in men is low testosterone levels. In fact, the latest estimates indicate as many as 30% of men aged 40–79 years may have a testosterone deficiency. Not only does testosterone affect sex drive and energy levels, it is a brain-boosting hormone known to improve mood, memory, motivation, and overall cognitive function. You can answer a simple questionnaire to help you determine if you have a testosterone deficiency. This online screening test as well as a list of testosterone deficiency symptoms and natural treatments can be found here: Testosterone among Best Natural Remedies for Depression in Older Men Women – As women approach perimenopause and menopause, estrogen and progesterone levels often fluctuate widely, amplifying any existing depression or anxiety symptoms. To find out if a hormone imbalance may be contributing to your depression, talk with an integrative physician who can test your estrogen, progesterone and testosterone levels (hormone panel). Don’t wait until you’ve reached menopause to have this test performed. It is a good idea to establish your natural hormone levels by getting a baseline test in your late thirties or early perimenopause. After testing, your doctor can determine if hormone replacement therapy may be beneficial for you. With your doctor’s orders, a compound pharmacy can prepare customized hormone replacement using bio-identical hormones instead of synthetic hormones. Synthetic Versus Bioidentical Hormone Replacement – What’s the Difference? Conventional hormone replacement therapy (HRT) involves the use of synthetic hormones that are created in a laboratory. Examples of these products include Premarin©, Prempro© and Provera©. The use of synthetic HRT is controversial due to the side effects including increased risk of developing certain cancers (particularly breast cancer) as well as gallbladder disease, blots clots, stroke and high blood pressure. Bioidentical hormones are derived from naturally-occurring sources (such as yams) and are designed to replicate the same exact molecular structure as the hormones that are produced naturally in the body. Bioidentical hormones are specifically designed to match your individual hormonal needs. When warranted, a precise dosage of bioidentical estrogens, progesterone, testosterone, and/or DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone, a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands) is prepared according to your doctor’s prescription at a compounding pharmacy. 4. How to beat depression if you have adrenal gland dysfunction. Do you suffer from fatigue, insomnia, and weight gain in addition to depression? This combination of symptoms is often the complaint of people who suffer from adrenal gland dysfunction. If you have adrenal fatigue symptoms (your adrenals are not producing adequate amounts of hormones), your chance of lapsing into depression are increased substantially. To rejuvenate your adrenal glands, several natural options are available: Surprising Causes of Depression: Why Even Your Doctor is Likely to Miss This One! 5. How to beat depression if you have a vitamin deficiency. Vitamin deficiencies are also a major underlying root cause of depression. In particular, insufficient levels of vitamin D3 and magnesium can negatively impact your mood and well-being. To discover if you have a vitamin deficiency, read more here: 10 Vitamin D Deficiency Symptoms That You Can Identify Yourself What You Must Know About Low Magnesium Symptoms 6. How to beat depression if you have a poor diet. Does your diet consist mostly of fried or fast foods, processed foods, sweets or sodas? If so, your depression may be caused by poor food choices. Learn exactly how food affects your mood and what you can do to incorporate healthful eating into your daily lifestyle: This is Your Brain on French Fries – Don’t Ignore How Food Affects Depression Symptoms Hidden Trans-Fats Increase Risk of Depression Diet Soda Dangers: Could Depression Really Be the End Result? Depression Symptoms Linked to Gluten Sensitivity 7. How to beat depression if you’ve had exposure to environmental toxins. Perhaps you eat a healthy diet of fruits and vegetables, but you still suffer from depression. Are the fruits and veggies you regularly consume on the “dirty dozen” list of most pesticide-contaminated produce? How about prescription drugs – do you take medications daily? Do you have any mercury (amalgam) fillings in your teeth? Or, have you had a recent flood in your home or office or have noticed mold growing in the walls? If you’ve answered “yes” to any of the questions, your depression may be caused by an exposure to environmental toxins. Learn why: 3 Toxic Chemicals Tied to Depression – #1 Prescription Drugs 3 Toxic Chemicals Tied to Depression – #2 Pesticides 3 Toxic Chemicals Tied to Depression – #3 Mercury (Amalgam) Fillings Sick Building Syndrome (Mold) – It’s Not All In Your Head! Molding a Link to Depression Symptoms 20 Life-saving Techniques to Help You Beat the Blues! To get a more in-depth look at the root causes of depression and learn how to beat depression with 20 life-saving techniques, download our comprehensive guide, Natural Remedies for Depression: Beating Depression Without Drugs. Our Guide contains all the information you’ll need to address the true etiology of your depressive symptoms including those listed above and others – thyroid disorders, endocrine gland dysfunction, norepinephrine imbalance, stress, and more. The Guide walks you through the origins of depression in detail. Once you know the cause, choosing the right natural remedies to correct your depression will be straightforward. Permalink: http://www.naturalhealthadvisory.com/daily/depression-and-anxiety/how-to-beat-depression-once-and-for-all/