Neurotransmitter Testing
Neurotransmitters are brain chemicals that help our brain to communicate with itself and the rest of the body. There are several major neurotransmitters that, when in balance lead to a healthy and happy, productive life. When neurotransmitters are out of balance with each other, symptoms such as mood disorders, sleep issues, and concentration become a regular part of life.
Neurotransmitters are affected by several key factors including genetics, stress, diet (including alcohol), neurotoxins (such as thimerosal), recreational and prescription drugs. Some neurotransmitters, such as serotonin are depleted by stimulant medications and caffeine.
We have excitatory neurotransmitters and inhibitory neurotransmitters. Excitatory neurotransmitters like epinephrine and norepinephrine stimulate the brain and inhibitory neurotransmitters like serotonin and GABA calm the brain. If one of these is overproduced and overused then we deplete the neurotransmitters that balance them.
When not in balance, many different symptoms may arise such as:
- Memory issues
- Mental sluggishness
- Attention deficits and focus issues
- Starch and sugar cravings
- Sleep cycle disturbance and insomnia
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Low energy
Research has shown that neurotransmitter testing can be used to identify syndromes such as PTSD, attachment disorder, depression, anxiety, focus and IBD among others.
Testing neurotransmitters through urinalysis is new to the US though it was developed in Germany and has been used there for over 15 years. We use urinary neurotransmitter testing with a local lab to analyze your levels.
After finding out your unique balance of neurotransmitter levels you will receive a detailed report and recommendations on how to help your brain restore balance. The restoration program mostly utilizes specific dosages of high quality amino acids to help repair the balance. At times we will recommend specific nutrients, enzymes, fats or fish oils to support the process.
