Neurotransmitters are the chemical messengers that the nervous system uses to communicate. Neurotransmitters affect energy levels, metabolism, mood, sleep, and concentration. Imbalances in the nervous system can be caused by excessive stress, poor diet, toxins, medications, genetics, inflammation, alcohol, and caffeine use. Symptoms caused by neurotransmitter imbalance and the neurotransmitters that are commonly associated:
Neurotransmitter testing can provide insight to chronic health conditions and help to provide more natural and targeted treatments. Testing Neurotransmitters Neurotransmitters are tested through markers via urine that reflect circulating levels of in the body. Salivary hormone and immune testing is often included to show connections between the nervous, endocrine, and immune systems. Treating Neurotransmitter Imbalance: The test results will provide more objective data so that therapies are targeted to the imbalances detected. Treatments include dietary and lifestyle changes, hormonal therapies, and herbal/amino acid supplementation. Natural combinations of herbals and amino acids can be used to balance neurotransmitter levels by influencing biochemical pathways. For example, deficiencies in serotonin can be targeted by giving 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP), which acts as a precursor amino acid used to make serotonin in the body. Patients are not required to be off of their current medications such as anti-depressants, to assess and treat neurotransmitters. The recommended treatments can most often be used in conjunction with medication, with the possibility for some patients to lower dosing or discontinue their current therapies. These recommendations will be carefully monitored by your healthcare provider. Many patients are concerned about the side effects of taking medications to alleviate common neurological complaints. Neurotransmitter testing and guided supplementation offer a more natural and functional approach to treating common illnesses and symptoms.