Neurotransmitter Boosters

Enhancing Cognitive Function with Neurotransmitter Boosters

The human brain contains an estimated 86 billion neurons that communicate by passing chemical messages at the synapse, the small gap between cells, in a process called neurotransmission. These chemical messages are called neurotransmitters and the messages they carry help you move your limbs, feel sensations, keep the heart beating and take in and respond to all information the body receives from other parts of the body and the environment. Therefore it's easy to see why a neurotransmitter booster can help brain health.

Science tells us there are at least 100 neurotransmitters, but suspects there are many others that have yet to be discovered. The brain constantly tries to keep these neurochemicals in balance, since too much or too little of any of one neurotransmitter upsets the entire balance of the brain and can lead to problems with mood, memory, addictions, energy and sleep.

Along with diet, exercise, and stress management, neurotransmitter boosters can help you get your brain chemistry back in harmony.

Selecting the Best Neurotransmitter Boosting Supplements for Optimal Brain Wellness

5-HTP 

5-hydroxytryptophan  (5-HTP) is a direct precursor to serotonin and supplementation has been shown to increase the cell’s output of serotonin. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that functions as a mood stabilizer, which can affect behaviour, mood, emotions, appetite and digestion. Also being the precursor to melatonin, helps regulate the sleep-wake cycle.

Choline

Choline is the neurotransmitter booster to acetylcholine, a key neurotransmitter for brain health that's involved in both memory and thought and required to build cell membranes, improve nerve cell efficiency and repair neurons. Choline supplementation has been shown to enhance the biosynthesis of acetylcholine and, as a result, improve brain function, including memory, speed of processing, and learning.

Huperzine A

Huperzine A, an acetylcholinesterase (AChE) inhibitor. The AChE enzyme is responsible for breaking down the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which is responsible for neurotransmission and critical in learning, memory, and attention. Huperzine A, by inhibiting the breakdown of acetylcholine, naturally increases this key neurotransmitter and boosts all of its functions inside the body.

L-Phenylalanine: A Key Neurotransmitter Booster for Enhanced Mental Performance

L-Phenylalanine is an essential amino acid that is crucial to brain health and nervous system throughout life. Once consumed, phenylalanine can be converted to the amino acid tyrosine, which is involved in the production of dopamine and norepinephrine, two key neurotransmitters, which research has shown promote healthy mood balance, and enhanced cognitive function when present in adequate quantities.

SAM-e

S-adenosyl-l-methionine (SAM-e) is a compound synthesized as part of a multistep pathway involving folic acid and vitamin B-12, which plays a role in the synthesis of the key neurotransmitters serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine. SAM-e is probably best known as a “natural anti-depressant” thanks to its effect on monoamine neurotransmitters in the brain, especially serotonin and dopamine. Indeed, SAM-e's mood-enhancing effects are so impressive that it is officially recommended as a first-line treatment for depression in Italy, Germany, Spain, and Russia. 

Concluding Insights on the Impact of Neurotransmitter Boosters on Brain Function

When your neurotransmitter balance is affected by disease, diet, drugs, or even lifestyle, the ill effects of this lack or excess of neurotransmitters can be debilitating. While neurotransmitter boosters can be especially effective at helping you rebalance your brain chemicals, it's wise to discuss your symptoms with a qualified Naturopathic Doctor or other health care professional before selecting a booster, to obtain case-specific advice on which booster or booster blend may be best for your own unique needs.