Neurotransmitter Balance

The Role of Neurotransmitters in Health

The human nervous system is arguably one of the most complex systems in nature. It is responsible for coordinating thousands of processes, from muscle contraction to crying. The center of the nervous system is the brain, which contains over 100 billion specialized cells called neurons. The nervous system also contains very important chemical messengers called neurotransmitters. The brain uses neurotransmitters to tell your heart to beat, your lungs to breathe, and your stomach to digest. Neurotransmitters are also necessary to thought processes, emotions, and other essential body functions including sleep, energy, and fear.

neurons-and-neurotransmitters-human-phys

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Clearly, a system with this much responsibility needs to function properly in order for a person to remain healthy. Unfortunately, the nervous system can be easily disrupted through a number of factors:

Stress
Poor Diet
Toxic Chemicals
Infections
Genetics

These factors can cause the levels of neurotransmitters to become either too high or too low. Imbalanced neurotransmitter levels can lead to:

Feelings of sadness
Feelings of anxiousness
Disrupted sleep
Fatigue
Behavioral problems
Foggy thinking
Headaches

The good news is that neurotransmitter levels can be measured, and with the help of your health care practitioner, options for improving nervous system function can be discussed.

Neurotransmitters are divided into two basic categories:

Excitatory neurotransmitters stimulate the brain and body
Inhibitory neurotransmitters calm the brain and body.

Just as levels of individual neurotransmitters are important in maintaining optimum health, so is the proper balance between your excitatory and inhibitory systems.

For more information and/or to schedule an appointment please call the office at 574-267-1877

Disclaimer:
This information is not meant to diagnose, treat or replace traditional treatment, and has not been approved by the FDA or HPB.