What are neurotransmitters?
Neurotransmitters are the brain chemicals that communicate
information throughout our brain and body. They relay signals between
nerve cells, called ‘neurons’. The brain uses neurotransmitters to tell
your heart to beat, your lungs to breathe, and your stomach to digest.
They can also affect mood, sleep, concentration, weight and can cause
adverse symptoms when they are out of balance.
Neurotransmitters include serotonin, dopamine, GABA, norepinephrine
and epinephrine.
How do neurotransmitters become depleted?
How are my neurotransmitter levels measured?
A urine sample is taken in an easy to use take home kit and then sent for
analysis. Only a handful of laboratories in the world have the technology
required to measure neurotransmitter levels. This test was originated
and developed in Germany some 15 years ago. Over this period of time,
normative data has been established and our analyses are measured by
this standard. This unique method of testing allows experts in the field
to create protocols utilizing proven amino acids regimens. Based on the
German technology for testing neurotransmitter in the urine this science
examines the correlation between peripheral levels of neurotransmitters
and the brain. The neurotransmitters that are produced in the brain
require the same amino acid precursors and enzymes for synthesis as
they do in the body. Based on this connection urinary neurotransmitters
give us a reflection of neurotransmitter imbalances that can result in
symptoms and conditions such as depressions, anxiety, ADD/ADHD,
headaches, migraines, fatigue, weight issues, insomnia, memory
problems, and chronic pain.
The easy-to-use kit contains everything you need to complete the urine
test (vials, simple instructions, shipping container and label, etc.) and will
be used to measure the neurotransmitter levels in your body, which is
the basis of your program.
How are my neurotransmitters returned to balanced levels?
By the use of supplements containing amino acids and vitamins which are
the pre-cursors (building blocks) to neurotransmitters. For example the
amino acid tryptophan is the precursor to serotonin, i.e. serotonin is
produced in the body from the amino acid tryptophan. Amino acids are
components of dietary proteins and are involved in many important
functions in the body.
Dietary and lifestyle advice is also given to further enhance the
programme.
How is the programme different from taking medications?
The supplements supply the ‘food’ – in the form of targeted nutrients
(amino acids) – which the brain uses to build neurotransmitters.
Medications work in different ways. The supplements we use are all
natural, pharmaceutical grade, containing the highest quality ingredients.
They are non-prescription and do not cause any side effects.
Can I continue to use medications on this programme?
The Brain Wellness Programme is compatible with most medications.
However we do ask you to list the medications you currently take, in
order to determine compatibility. The programme works exceedingly
well with most anti-depressants, but we recommend that, as with any
other programme, you check with your doctor before embarking on the
Brain Wellness Programme.
How soon can I feel the results?
We are all individuals, and results, as with most programs, will vary from
person to person. Some clients feel a difference in a few days of starting
their program, while others take longer. However, it is extremely rare for
clients to not feel a noticeable difference in some aspect of their lives. We
highly recommend – and send regular reminders – that clients complete
and revisit their Progress Monitor, which allows them to more accurately
track their success. Often, when we start to feel better, we forget how
bad we felt to begin with. The Progress Monitor is a good reminder.
How long do I need to stay on the Brain Wellness Program?
There are three phases to our program: The first phase is a conditioning
phase and the goal is to enhance the inhibitory neurotransmitter system
to build a foundation. This phase can last anywhere from two to six
weeks. The second phase is the excitatory phase. The goal in this phase is
to either enhance or diminish the excitatory neurotransmitters so that
both systems can function synergistically and in proper ratios. This phase
can last anywhere from three to six months, depending on the client. The
third phase is a maintenance phase in which the dosage of amino acids is
typically reduced to maintain proper neurotransmitter levels.