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Brain Neurotransmitters Can Affect Your Mood and Your Life
Neurotransmitters are complex chemical messengers that coordinate clear communications between neurons in your brain cells and the rest of your body. These back-and-forth transmissions can influence nearly every cell, tissue, and biological decision in your body – and your life. Brain neurotransmitters are a really big deal. Do you know if yours work properly? Neurotransmitters Boost Communication Between Brain and Body These chemical messengers connect the brain and spinal cord with the rest of your body and with your muscles, organs, and glands, says Daniel D. Amen, MD, author of The Brain Warrior’s Way. Your brain’s billions of nerve cells make trillions of connections with each other. (These are called synapses.) Then, each nerve cell generates electrical signals that travel with help from those brainy chemical messengers. These chemical envoys may affect every cell, tissue, and system in your body. And because neurotransmitters are also deeply involved in the immune system and your hormones, neurotransmitter imbalances can cause health problems: Migraines Brain fog (loss of focus) Fatigue Insomnia (difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or both) Fibromyalgia (localized pain) Diabetes and pre-diabetes Obesity Mood disorders (depression, mood swings) Anxiety (PTSD) Behavioral addictions (binge eating, gambling, etc.) Hormonal imbalances Balance Your Brain to Feel Lighter and Brighter When your brain’s chemical transmitters are healthy and in balance, you may think more clearly, feel less anxious, and enjoy a more positive outlook. Some of our most effective supplements include neurotransmitters, as well as dozens of vitamins and minerals you may need for a brighter mind: GABA(Gamma amino butyric acid) is a major calming brain neurotransmitter in the central nervous system that supports mood; Serotonin is another inhibitory (or calming) neurotransmitter tied to appetite, pain, and digestion; and Melatonin is a neurotransmitter-like property involved in many body functions such as sleep and depression.
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4 Ways Chocolate Can Boost Your Brain
Your Brain on Dark Chocolate Lovers and chocoholics everywhere are overjoyed to know that some chocolate may actually be (gulp) very good for you and your brain. Turns out that chocolate, in its natural form, isn’t bad for you. It's all that fake processing, sugar and scary chemicals that go into commercial chocolates that make them so unhealthy. Instead, think: silky, creamy, natural dark chocolate. Melt in your mouth chocolate. That’s right. Dark chocolate contains health-promoting properties that support a positive mood, the ability to think clearly, and your healthy cardiovascular system. Not All Chocolate is Created Equal Most chocolate bars are full of unhealthy ingredients like sugar, dairy and synthetic flavors — virtually canceling out chocolate’s powerful health benefits. Chocolate is made from tree seeds of the tropical Theobroma cacao plant. The earliest use of chocolate dates back to ancient civilizations. For centuries, deep dark delicious chocolate has been honored for its healing and medicinal qualities. Aztecs and ancient Mayans even drank theirs in a brew made from natural cacao beans; they believed it provided strength and energy. When the Europeans first brought cacao home from the Americas, they used it as an all-purpose tonic to treat dozens of health conditions like insomnia. Europeans actually once referred to chocolate as “the food of the gods.” 4 Ways Chocolate Boosts Brain and Body High in flavonoids (substances shown to increase blood flow) Loaded with cancer-fighting antioxidants Full of fiber (to keep you feeling full) Rich in minerals like magnesium, iron, zinc Additionally, chocolate contains phenylethylamine or PEA, which is a psycho-active compound. It acts as a stimulant that makes you feel really good when you eat it. Chocolate also increases serotonin (the “don’t worry, be happy” neurotransmitter) in your brain. Happy Valentine's Day (and Choose Your Chocolate Wisely) The answer is yes, fine chocolate can actually be good for you. We knew it all along. So, while chocolate is healthy for you, the added sugar and dairy in it are not. That’s why Dr. Daniel G. Amen has created BrainMD Health’s very own chocolate bars – Brain In Love and Brain On Joy. These delicious chocolates are free of sugar, dairy, gluten and GMOs. But they are rich in decadence and made with love. On Valentine's Day, don't deprive yourself. Treat yourself and loved ones to delicious, satisfying chocolate bars that are good for your soul, and healthy for your brain and body.
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Exercise for a Healthy Brain, a Stronger Heart
Most of the healthy habits that keep your brain healthy also keep your heart healthy – and the Amen Clinic has been saying that for years. Now, Boston University Medical Center is pretty close to proving it. In one of the first studies of its kind, older adults who scored high on cardio fitness tests also directly performed better on memory tasks (than those who did not). Further, the more fit older adults were, the more active their brains remained during learning tests, and beyond. Healthy young adults were tested (18-31 years) along with older adults (55-74 years) during a wide range of fitness tests involving walking and jogging on a treadmill. At the same time, researchers assessed their cardiorespiratory fitness by measuring oxygen and carbon dioxide levels. After exercise, study participants also underwent MRI scans which collected images of their brain while the study participants learned and remembered names that were associated with pictures of unfamiliar faces. Researchers found that older adults, when compared to younger adults, had more difficulty learning and remembering the correct name associated with each face. Age differences in brain activation were observed with older adults showing decreased brain activation in some regions. However, the degree to which older adults demonstrated age-related changes in memory performance and brain activity also largely depended on their fitness level. Fit Seniors Can Pack More Brain Power Than Sedentary Young Adults “High fitness” older adults in these studies showed better memory performance and increased brain activity patterns compared to their low-fit, younger peers. The increased brain activation in the high fit older adults was observed in brain regions that show age-related decline, suggesting regular exercise may contribute to brain maintenance. Higher fit older adults also had greater activation than young adults in some brain regions, suggesting that physical fitness and brain power are linked, agrees Scott Hayes, PhD, assistant professor of psychiatry at Boston University School of Medicine. "Importantly, cardiovascular fitness is a modifiable health factor that can be improved through regular engagement in moderate to vigorous sustained physical activity such as walking, jogging, swimming, or dancing,” says Dr. Hayes. Therefore, starting an exercise program, regardless of age, can not only contribute to the more obvious physical health factors, but may also contribute to better memory performance and brain function," he adds. You Are Never Too Old to Salvage Your Brain Our own Dr. Daniel G. Amen has been saying that for years. An avid exerciser himself, Dr. Amen says cautions, “While maintaining high levels of fitness through consistent physical activity will not entirely eliminate or cure age- or Alzheimer's related symptoms, it may slow down the mental decline associated with it.” Beyond more blood flow to the brain and heart during exercise, additional research is needed to explore the specific mechanism of how physical fitness enhances brain structure and function, says Dr. Amen. "We also need to clarify the impact of specific exercise programs (weightlifting versus walking, for instance) and their frequency and optimal intensities," he says. [wc_box color="inverse" text_align="left"] Dr. Amen’s Weekly Fitness Regimen 3 days per week, power walking briskly for 60 minutes 2 days per week, weightlifting for all major muscle groups 3 times per week, playing table tennis intensely [/wc_box] In addition to regular exercise, many different healthful foods and natural supplements are all related to maintaining brain health as you age. Read Dr. Amen’s new book, The Brain Warrior’s Way, for more savvy brain strategies.
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Why Choose Plant-Based Protein Powders?
Protein is an Essential Building Block Our bodies are incredibly efficient machines, performing thousands of functions each day without requiring any awareness on your part. When you consume nutrients, in the form of food, your body springs into action breaking everything down into its usable components, extracting the vitamins and minerals, converting the sugars into energy and energy stores, and utilizing the protein to repair and rebuild the tissues of our muscles, skin and organs. At least this is what is supposed to happen. However, to effectively give your body the proper nutrition does take awareness. Food is medicine or it can be poison, and your body will respond and perform according to how you feed it. High-quality protein is one of the macronutrients required for a high-performance life. Protein can literally be found in every living cell in your body. Simply put: You can’t live without protein. The prospect of eating the recommended 45 to 100 grams of dietary protein (for adults) every day is a bit daunting. You may not want to start the day with a heavy breakfast chock-full of animal proteins. If you’re thinking you’d like to try out a protein powder instead, but don’t have any idea what to look for, here is some help. Other Sources of Plant Proteins Chia seeds Spirulina Nutritional yeast Pea protein Whey Protein, Plant Protein. What's Best to Buy? What are the differences between traditional whey protein and plant-based protein? Whey protein is a by-product of the cheese manufacturing process, and is the liquid that is left behind after milk is curdled and strained. Since whey protein is derived from milk, lactose intolerance is one of the most common side effects from consuming whey protein. Whey protein is a common allergen and can affect the immune system of individuals who may be allergic to it. Whey proteins are also notorious for causing bloating which is a symptom of the body’s inability to digest it. Additionally, the caseine in milk protein converts to something called “exorphins” during digestion. Exorphins cross the blood brain barrier, binding to the same receptors that many opiate drugs do. This can negatively affect brain function, focus, and mood. Plant-based protein is a much easier digestible source of protein for humans without the side effects associated with whey protein. Plant proteins are typically packaged with an abundance of phytonutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, minerals, and fiber — all critical components for brain and body health. Today, the health benefits of plant-based, nutrient-dense diets are widely recognized by experts in nutrition. As a result, both vegans and non-vegans can try to get most or all of their daily protein intake from plant sources instead of red meat.
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Meatless Monday Tips + Brain-Smart Smoothie Recipe!
Cherries and berries may not be available at a Farmer’s Market near you, yet, but frozen berries do retain their vitamins and nutrients well. Add healthy grams of fiber with spinach, dark greens and hemp seeds, and you’ll consume more than half of your daily fiber needs in one smoothie recipe, says fitness expert Tana Amen, BSN, RN, author of The Brain Warrior’s Way Cookbook. Beyond their basic fruity tartness and high levels of vitamin C and K, these super-berries pack in folic acid and minerals like manganese, which are affiliated with brain health. (By many accounts, blackberries are considered one of the most powerful antioxidant foods consumed in the U.S.). Super Berries May Battle Viral Infections, Ulcers, and “Bad” Cholesterol The National Institutes of Health is funding research to study the powerful effects of these “super berries.”¹ In one large study, women who ate more than three servings of blueberries and/or strawberries per week had a 34 percent lower heart attack risk than those who ate less than that. “Brain activity is linked with appropriate nutrition,” says Amen. Even short-term alterations in the quantity and makeup of antioxidants (like berries) can affect your mental cognition, mood and healthy body weight. Certain supplements may also help you get adequate amount of these free radical-fighting antioxidants. As an added health wallop, Amen adds hemp seeds² for more calcium and iron; and freeze-dried Chinese goji berries with 20 vitamins and minerals. Shop your favorite books, supplements and smoothie recipes, and stay tuned for our healthy nutrition tips. We have so many delicious, quick-and-simple recipes to choose from. What are your favorite smoothie add-ins? At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. References: 1. Keservani, R. K., Sharma, A. K., & Kesharwani, R. K. (2016). Medicinal effect of nutraceutical fruits for the cognition and brain health. Scientifica, 2016, Article 3109254. https://doi.org/10.1155/2016/3109254 2. Mihoc, M., Pop, G., Alexa, E., & Radulov, I. (2012). Nutritive quality of Romanian hemp varieties (Cannabis sativa L.) with special focus on oil and metal contents of seeds. Chemistry Central Journal, 6, Article 122. https://doi.org/10.1186/1752-153X-6-12
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Are You Severely Sleep Deprived?
You have been staring at the ceiling for hours now. The more you think about needing to fall asleep, the more you toss and turn, and all those ANTs start circling. When you wake up the next morning feeling exhausted or defeated, it’s the right time to create a healthier sleep life. Extreme Sleep Deprivation Directly Affects Your Health Many workaholic Americans have an emerging mindset that it's socially acceptable – even mandatory – to get less rest. They may participate in “work binges” and settle for 4-5 hours of sleep per night. That is just not an adequate amount of brain rest for most of us. Truth is, extreme sleeplessness can potentially triple the risk of death from all causes, and is associated with cognitive decline, says Daniel G. Amen, MD in Change Your Brain Change Your Life. Sleeping less than six hours has also been associated with: Lower overall blood flow to the brain Hindering your mood, focus, and memory for days after Increase of appetite, which increases risk for unwanted weight gain Low mood or feelings of anxiousness Loss of motivation and willpower Holistic Treatments for More Soothing Slumbers As this harmful cycle continues, asking your doctor for sleep medication may sound like the only option. However, at Amen Clinics we look at a healthy sleep regimen in a holistic manner, integrating natural healing therapies with the sleeping medications people may already be on. Helpful, night-time supplements can make a difference to your quality of life. They often contain melatonin, GABA (a calming neurotransmitter), magnesium, vitamin B6 and herbal valerian root, used for centuries as a sleeping supplement. Invest in Your Rest – You Deserve It Try these healthy habits alongside a night-time supplement to ensure quality rest and a healthy lifestyle change. Exercise early in the day to increase blood flow to the muscles and your brain as a natural, calming stress reliever Limit caffeine consumption to early afternoon, this gives your body time to wind down Zap all your ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) Limit technology before bedtime, pick up a book instead Meditate for 10 minutes before you hit the sack Free yourself from alcohol and drugs that interfere with optimal sleeping patterns. Learn how to become a real Brain Warrior. Hear more about how to solve your sleeping struggles on one of Amen Clinic's Facebook Live Chats.
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7 Ingredients for Brain Health: When More is More
Your Brain is Elegant and Complicated Your brain is one of the most complicated machines in the world. It works through many different mechanisms, and it's because of this diversity that our Brain & Memory Power Boost supplement has been so effective at improving cognitive function for so many people. Our Brain & Memory Power Boost utilizes seven intensively researched, key ingredients to improve these many different mechanisms in order to get the best brain-boosting results. Ingredients for Brain Support Two of these ingredients, Vinpocetine and Ginkgo Biloba Extract, work together to support healthy blood flow to the brain, which is vital considering your brain requires 20 percent of your body’s total oxygen and blood sugar resources. In addition, the issues associated with cognitive decline during aging often stem from a lack of proper blood flow. We always say, "Some of the prettiest brain scans we have seen at Amen Clinics come from people who take Ginkgo." Another ingredient, PhosphatidylSerine (or PS for short) works at the synapse, or the connections between brain cells. PS works with your brain cells to help them communicate quickly and efficiently for longer periods, as opposed to slowing down. To ensure your brain has enough energy to function throughout the day at high levels, we incorporated both Acetyl-L-Carnitine (ALC) a key nutrient for creating energy in our nerve cells, and Alpha-Lipoic Acid, which influences the enzymes that help produce more energy in the body. And as if all this weren’t enough, we added N-AcetylCysteine (NAC), the brain’s most useful antioxidant that works to help your nerve cells stay balanced, keeping conditions optimal. In addition to NAC, we included Huperzine A, an extract from Huperzia serrata (club moss), a traditional Chinese medicinal herb, that supports your acetylcholine system, a key brain neurotransmitter. A Multiple-Mechanism Approach to Memory Loss The ingredients in Brain & Memory Power Boost work to support multiple mechanisms in your brain. This multiple-mechanism approach is how we think about formulating supplements. As with health in general, no single approach will help you reach your goals but rather a combination of techniques and habits to contribute to better health. That’s why we always recommend a healthy diet, exercise, plenty of sleep, and good relationship habits to accompany your supplement regimen.
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Do You Have the Winter Blues?
Are you still in hibernation mode? That's OK. Everyone knows it feels better to cuddle up now, watch a movie, and drink a warm, frothy beverage when it’s cold outside or during your chilly rainy season. Many of us are feeling lethargic, fatigued, moody and maybe just a little bit lazy. Also, those thick woolly sweaters can hide your errant holiday resolutions. Why is Your Bad Mood Not Going Away? Signs of low winter mood can include: Negative or guilty thoughts Mental fogginess Purposefully avoiding social interaction Overeating and emotionally eating Periods of starving and bingeing Difficulty with concentration and memory Because most people write off these signs and behaviors as “just being down,” they don’t take proper care of themselves; they don’t believe they need to do anything about it. What Causes The Need to Hibernate? A variety of things can alter or change your cold-weather mood, but there are a few distinct reasons why a change in climate can be responsible for – or the catalyst for – your shift into bad moods. Decrease in Serotonin Activity As the weather changes, and your ordinary schedule is thrown for a loop, your brain's serotonin activity can decrease. As the brain neurotransmitter that plays a majority role in mood, serotonin falloff often is correlated to an upsurge in negative mood. Fluctuations in Melatonin Activity This hormone provides your body with normal sleep cycles, and ebbs (and flows) can affect your mood. When sudden drops in this hormone occur, mood and sleep can get out of sync and contribute to mood swings. If your melatonin activity is out of balance, a melatonin supplement may help you feel more balanced and clear. Vitamin D Deficiency When you’re spending less time in the sun, which is true for most people during the winter weather, we make less vitamin D in the skin. Low vitamin D is linked to low mood and higher perceptions of stress and anxiousness. How Can You Get Rid of Your Winter Blues? There are plenty of ways you can naturally boost your mood or help to alleviate the negative signs and feelings that come with the winter blues. Many of the negative feelings of winter blues are believed to be tied to lack of sunshine and UV rays, which results in the skin producing less vitamin D. One popular, proactive remedy to offset the moody blues is a "bright-light therapy" lamp or light box, which for some people helps combat moodiness, jet lag, and mood swings. They simulate noontime sunshine without the UV rays that can cause skin cancers; and the therapy lamps have several different settings to help you avoid eyestrain. A more cost-effective alternative is to make sure you’re by a window with as much natural light as possible, for at least 30 minutes each day. Sweat to the Beat Try to maintain a healthy diet that fuels your more active lifestyle. Ramp up your will-power and adopt a moderate daily exercise routine. Also, be sure to stick to these healthy habits in order to maintain more even moods and a sense of mind-body balance. If you’re looking for a mood enhancing supplement, BrainMD’s Serotonin Mood Support and SAMe Mood & Movement 400 are both scientifically designed to support the brain mechanisms that promote positive mood and emotional balance during your hibernation months. At BrainMD, we’re dedicated to providing the highest quality supplements to improve your physical health and overall well-being. For more information about our full list of brain healthy supplements, please visit us at BrainMD. *These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. This content is for informational purposes only. It is not meant to substitute for medical or healthcare advice from a physician, nor is it intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult your healthcare provider before beginning a new health regimen.
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Cozy Yam Almond Mash
(RECIPE) Meatless Monday Enjoy our savory Meatless Monday recipe, developed by Tana Amen, BSN, RD, author of The Brain Warrior’s Way Cookbook. She’s created a heart-warming indulgent dish chock-full of vitamins C and A, and other nutrients good for your brain, and your heart. In our Cozy Yam Almond Mash vegetarian recipe, the almonds used are very high in brain-healthy fats and proteins, vitamin E, manganese and magnesium, says Amen. Both of these “m” minerals (manganese and magnesium) are needed by the body to break down and absorb calcium and healthy fats that can boost brain power. They may also bolster bone health and energy metabolism, she says. Remember: Amen uses fiber-rich yams as the feature ingredient in meatless soups and side dishes to help fill you up and satisfy carbohydrate cravings on chilly nights in front of the fire, watching our PBS Specials. Ingredients 4 Servings 1.33 cup yams peeled, chopped 1/3 cup almond milk 1/6 teaspoon erythritol (or another sugar substitute) 1/6 teaspoon nutmeg Directions Medium dice the yams and place in a large pot of water. Boil until tender (20 minutes or so), then drain. Place in a food processor or electric mixer, and then blend yams with almond milk, erythritol and nutmeg. Blend until smooth and enjoy warm or cold. Nutritional Info Per Serving 85 calories 0.5g fat 0.4g sugar 1.5g protein 3g fiber 19.5g carbs 28mg sodium 0.05g saturated fat 0mg cholesterol This recipe was created by Tana Amen BSN, RN, fitness expert and book author. Shop for your favorite books and supplements, and stay tuned for our healthy recipes every Monday.
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7 Ways to Boost Your Energy And Mental Focus
If you reach mindlessly for a cup of coffee or a sugar fix to get you through the day when energy or attention flags, consider eating something healthy instead, or trying a supplement that can naturally stoke your stamina, and improve your energy and focus. Unfortunately, the instant jolt that comes from a blood sugar spike is typically followed by an insulin surge -- leading to a quick drop in blood sugar — which leaves you feeling foggy and sluggish. Next time you're dragging, put down the coffee or energy drink, step away from the donuts, and pick up one of these foods or supplements as an alternative way to get a healthy, natural energy boost. 1. Almonds and Cashews These nuts are an amazing source of healthy fats, fiber and protein that help balance blood sugar levels. They are also packed with magnesium, a mineral that plays a key role in converting food into energy. Being low on magnesium can drain your energy. Also try organic nut butters that provide a great-tasting energy boost. Use all-natural nut butters that contain nothing but nuts so you can avoid added sugars. 2. Salmon and Other Fatty Fish It isn't called a "brain food" for nothing! Salmon is high in Omega-3 fatty acids which are nutrients that have been found to improve memory and boost energy. Additionally, this delicious fish is also loaded with protein, niacin, riboflavin and vitamin B6, which are all instrumental in helping your body convert the food you eat into energy. 3. Kale and Darker Leafy Greens Kale is a superfood that provides you with the essential minerals of copper, potassium, iron and phosphorus. And like lean meats, kale contains the amino acid tyrosine, which helps give you a mental lift, as well as fiber to fill you up and help keep your blood sugar stable so you can avoid energy crashes. Like protein, fiber helps keep you full, as well as regulate your digestion and manage blood sugar. Spinach is loaded with iron – nearly twice as much as other leafy greens – which is essential in keeping your energy up. Eat a spinach salad for lunch (bonus for adding salmon or another lean protein) and you won't experience that p.m. energy slump. 4. Hummus and Tasty Legumes This Mediterranean dip has only a few simple ingredients (typically puréed garbanzo beans, sesame-based tahini, olive oil, and lemon juice) that all contribute nutrients for energy. The fiber and protein provided help stabilize blood sugar, take the edge off hunger, and boost energy. 5. Eggs as the Perfect Protein One of the few foods considered to be a "complete protein," eggs contain all nine essential amino acids that the body can't produce on its own. Additionally, eggs are full of the vitamins needed for the body to produce energy such as thiamin, riboflavin, folate, and B12, and B6. 6. Pumpkin Seeds and Other Seeds A handful of these tasty seeds contain more protein per ounce than almonds as well as more iron and magnesium than most nuts. Protein helps supply energy, and it keeps you fuller for longer because it's satiating, and helps manage your blood sugar. Protein-rich foods like seeds, eggs and nuts take slightly longer for you to digest, so you won’t be hungry or lethargic in 20 minutes. 7. Try a Natural Supplement We didn't mean to make you hungry, but getting adequate proteins to maintain focus and energy often requires lots of calories, which is why you might reach for a soda or cup of coffee for a fix. Amen Clinic's Focus and Energy naturally supports your body’s energy level with caffeine-free green tea, choline, and ginseng. These specially selected nutrients work through multiple mechanisms to support enhanced mental focus. Plus, Focus and Energy is safe, natural and non-habit-forming.
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4 Foods to Avoid for Better Gut Health
Did you know if your gut isn’t healthy, your brain probably isn’t functioning optimally either? In fact, there’s a good chance you won’t feel well at all. Studies have shown a link between your gut health and brain health. The first rule in gut health is to take care of your “good” bacteria. Taking care of your “gut bugs” requires providing them with a solid house and healthy food. Tana Amen BSN RN Explains the Importance of Probiotics https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=vFnycsacVcU 4 Foods to Avoid for Better Gut Health It is true that the gut communicates directly with your brain. About ninety percent of the serotonin in your body is made in your gut. Vitamin formation and mineral absorption also occur in the gut. The gut is responsible for about seventy percent of your immunity. As a Brain Warrior, the first step to having a healthy gut is to stop doing things that cause harm to it. In Week 6 of the Brain Warrior’s Way Live Class, Dr. Amen and I discussed foods that damage your gut, I’ve listed them here so you can be sure to stay away: Gluten, Latin for “glue,” is a sticky protein found in wheat, barley, rye and many other grains. It has been proven to damage the intestinal lining. Even if you’re not diagnosed with Celiac disease, gluten doesn’t offer you any health benefits. In fact, it has shown to damage gut lining 100% of the time in recent studies. Lectins is the Latin for, “to select.” These carbohydrate-binding proteins can be found in many grains including wheat, rice, oats, buckwheat, millet, rye and corn. Quinoa, dairy, eggs, legumes (including dry beans and peanuts), soy, and vegetables in the nightshade family—peppers, eggplant, potatoes, and uncooked tomatoes also contain lectins. Corn has the worst fatty acid profile of any grain. Be aware that most corn in our country is genetically modified and sprayed with pesticides. Sugar is the perfect food to grow the enemy’s army: resistant bacteria, yeast and other invaders. Antibiotics and other medications can wipe out most of the bacteria in your gut. The “resistant” bacteria that remain are often the “bad guys.” Another Way to Support Gut Health Gut health is one of the most unappreciated systems in the body. It lays the foundation to ensure you to have a healthy body and mind. If you take care of the “good” bacteria it can change your life. Because this system has such a profound impact on our well-being, body function, brain health, and even our physique, it is important to do what we can to support it. I recommend taking a good probiotic, like BrainMD’s ProBrainBiotics to ensure you support those important gut bugs. This is such a great product because it contains 2 specific strains of probiotic that have been studied for brain-specific benefits in a double-blind, placebo-controlled clinical trial.1 References: Messaoudi M, others. British Journal of Nutrition 105:755 (2011); addendum in Messaoudi M, others. Gut Microbes 2:256 (2011).
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Serotonin, Are You Getting Enough?
Brighten your mood and sidestep negative thoughts with serotonin and nutrients that can help promote calmness, satiation, and a more positive attitude. The human brain naturally produces a soothing neurotransmitter called serotonin, from before your birth and throughout your life. Serotonin plays many important roles in the brain’s biochemistry, and it’s intimately involved in sleeping, maintaining an upbeat mood, self-confidence, even supporting healthy appetite and social engagement. Are You Making Enough Serotonin Naturally? Here’s the thing, though: All-too many people don’t produce enough of this healthy property to experience the calming, positive effects. Plus, a deficiency may potentially affect depression and mood swings. Since serotonin also interacts in your intestinal tract, too-little of this chemical is closely associated with changes in gut health, body temperature and appetite. 8 Signs of Serotonin Deficiency Poor cognitive functioning Carbohydrate cravings and binge eating Constipation and digestive disorders Sleep problems and insomnia Feeling overwhelmed and unhappy Headaches Ringing in the ears Anger and irritability People who struggle with their moods often have very low levels of serotonin, says Daniel G. Amen, MD. Yet, serotonin can be increased in the brain (and body) by eating the proper foods and/or supplementing your diet. Interestingly, he says certain nutrients can help metabolize and help utilize serotonin most efficiently. Some of these nutrients include magnesium, zinc, folic acid, fish oils, vitamins C and B6. Always ask your doctor about supplementing, especially if you have a chronic condition and take medication every day. Also, it is possible (though rare) to have too much serotonin, but that usually occurs when people mix over-the-counter supplements with prescription drugs. Be sure to communicate with your health practitioner. Balancing your serotonin levels may help minimize emotional overeating and sleeplessness. Our effective Serotonin Mood Support can also help brighten your mood and possibly fight off cravings, bad moods and daily anxiety.
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