Previous articles spoke of the need to boost neurotransmitters by incorporating more amino acids in your diet. But the brain needs more than that to survive accurately. It also relies on a host of other needs: hormones, vitamins, minerals, and essential fatty acids. A deficiency in any one of the these can cause mood disorder and pain.
- A deficiency of essential fatty acids can create a chain reaction that leads to mood disorders: anxiety, depression, and panic disorders. We are unable to manufacture these in the body so it is important that we obtain these from foods we eat. So, take your fish oil tablet daily to combat this.
- Poor sleep depletes mood-controlling neurotransmitters, including serotonin. Decreased serotonin leads to depression, mental fatigue, lowered pain threshold, and sugar cravings. Begin by tying various methods such as teas and Valerian drops hours before you attempt sleep to calm the body and prepare it for proper sleep.
- Low-protein diets, poor digestion, and poor absorption syndrome all contribute to amino acid deficiencies. Remember amino acids create neurotransmitters so add your protein powder to your smoothie each morning.
- Magnesium deficiency affects 50% of the population. Magnesium and vitamin B6 are co-factors in the production of several neurotransmitters. Take your cal-mag and B vitamins each day!
- Chromium deficiency is common among those taking cholesterol lowering drugs. It is known to cause hypoglycemia and mood disorder. Be sure your multivitamin has your daily dose.
- Birth control pills and Premarin deplete vitamin B6 which is needed to transform amino acids into tryptophan and phenylalanine to make effective neurotransmitters.
- Vitamin C deficiency hurts production of dopomine which makes serotonin. Vitamin C plays a major role in the production of adrenal "fight or flight" hormone. Add extra vitamin C to combat fatigue.
- Emotional stressful situations cause the body to release adrenaline, cortisol, and insulin. These encourage the brain to secrete serotonin. The more serotonin you need, the more you deplete your resources. I know it's tough, but stay away from stress at all cost.
- Stimulants like caffeine, diet pills, sugar, and nicotine cause a rapid rise in blood-insulin levels. This causes the brain to release more of that precious serotonin. Serotonin makes us feel better for the moment, but it is short lived. You'll need another rush soon. Just stop, leave them out of diet. Make a pact today to begin.
- Low thyroid function is associated with stress, depression, anxiety, and fatigue. Thyroid hormones help regulate concentration, mental clarity, moods, and proper brain chemistry. Make sure to have your thyroid tested annually if you suffer from fibromyalgia.
- Low levels of vitamin D are associated with low moods and depression as well as pain. Have your levels checked annually if you suffer from fibromyalgia. I know you see me preach of the rays of goodness - sunshine - once spring hits. Make time to get out and lay out for 15-20 minutes daily. You'll be amazed at how much better you feel after a few days. Make you first, that's the only way this protocol works! When you're good, then you can care for those you love effectively.
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