neuro-research

[neuro-research]

Glutathione, otherwise referred to as GSH, is a powerful antioxidant containing three amino acids in its molecular structure: glutamic acid, cysteine, and glycine. Because of the three resident amino acids, experts often refer to the antioxidant as a tripeptide. The tripeptide produced by the body cells usually exists in high concentration levels in the liver. A medical article estimates the number to be about five millimolar, the same as cholesterol and glucose concentration level in the body cells.

[neuro-research]

Serotonin - Function and Deficiency

Serotonin is a type of brain chemical used to send signals from the nervous system to other cells in the body. The brain synthesizes serotonin using the amino acid tryptophan. This substance comes from dairy products, seeds, and soybeans. When tryptophan interacts with specialized cells in the brain stem, it is transformed into serotonin. While it is manufactured in the brain, most of the body’s serotonin is located in the digestive organs and the bloodstream. Like other neurotransmitters, serotonin delivers brain signals through nerve cells. Serotonin is released into the space between cells, known as the synaptic cleft. These chemicals then connect to special receptors on the adjacent cell. This triggers that cell also to release serotonin, continuing the signal. Any serotonin that remains in the synaptic cleft is reabsorbed into the cell. In this way, serotonin regulates a multitude of bodily functions. Serotonin receptors in the digestive organs process and remove food from the body. These receptors also create the sensation of satiety to prevent overeating. The body produces excess serotonin to rid the body of toxic food. This extra serotonin can cause symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. The neurotransmitter is also responsible for wound healing and blood clotting. When the skin is injured, the body produces more serotonin. This causes the tiny blood vessels to restrict, resulting in bleeding to the injured site. Serotonin also influences mood, emotion, and sexual arousal. Serotonin triggers pleasurable sensations in the brain, such as happiness and relaxation. Actions such as laughing, exercising, and smiling, stimulate serotonin release. Drugs such as ecstasy also cause an overproduction of serotonin, creating a euphoric mood. At high levels, serotonin can inhibit libido and even cause erectile dysfunction. If serotonin levels are too low, it can cause many symptoms. Low serotonin has two different forms. The brain does not produce enough serotonin, or the receptors cannot capture the available serotonin sufficiently. People can become serotonin deficient for diverse reasons. Since most of the body’s serotonin is in the gut, digestive issues and poor diet can impact serotonin levels. The body’s reaction to prolonged stress can also disrupt serotonin production and uptake. Environmental factors, such as low exposure to sunlight, can also lower serotonin. Hormonal changes associated with aging, pregnancy, or menopause also affect serotonin. Ongoing ecstasy and similar drugs can also deplete the body’s serotonin stores. Low serotonin can also arise due to genetic factors. For example, some people naturally have fewer receptors, or their bodies are less efficient at breaking down and transporting the substance. Diet, lifestyle, and other factors can also reduce serotonin precursors, such as tryptophan and vitamin D, in the body. Thus, the body cannot produce adequate amounts of serotonin. Serotonin deficiency causes mental and physical problems. Depression is linked with low serotonin. People with clinical depression may lose their appetite, feel lethargic, and have difficulty staying motivated. Other mental health issues associated with serotonin dysfunction include schizophrenia and bipolar disorder. Low serotonin can also cause problems such as insomnia and poor mood regulation. Due to its importance in regulating elimination, low serotonin can cause digestive problems, such as incontinence and ongoing nausea. Low serotonin can be remedied with natural treatments, including dietary changes and light exposure. In some cases, individuals may benefit from a selective serotonin uptake inhibitor, which allows serotonin to remain in the synaptic cleft for a longer period.