Depression an issue? How do antidepressants work? Is there more that can be done? Yes!

Dr. Mary Ackerley, a Harvard and Johns Hopkins trained board certified psychiatrist, explains:  “Anti-depressants act as a safety net that provide initial relief and management of symptoms.  They recirculate neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine that are required for mood regulation and hormonal function. The downside is that these drugs are only able to work with neurotransmitters that we currently have in our systems.

Additionally, “Sadly these drugs actually exhaust and deplete neurotransmitters. Anti-depressants stimulate the circulation of available neurotransmitters which is why patients initially experience mood elevation. Eventually though, the small pool of neurotransmitters become worn out and no longer function. This is why patients often switch to a different drug to gain relief.  Patients are reluctant to stop using them because they are terrified of returning to prior states of hopelessness and despair.”

Are there hopeful ways forward?  It is now possible to supply the brain with the materials (amino acids – proteins) to build up the level of neurotransmitters, not just recycle a diminished supply.  By supplying the right balance of amino acid precursors and cofactors we can increase the available pool of neurotransmitters.  The right balance of the vitamins, minerals and amino acids to balance our brain’s chemistry – building the biochemical chain to increase the supply of neurotransmitters that can dramatically improve our condition.

So what will these neurotransmitters do?  What conditions besides depression are affected?  Dr. Ackerley:  “Neurotransmitters have many functions in the body. Low levels affect our moods. They also influence appetite signals, hormones, and weight regulation. There is a well known correlation between the use of anti-depressants and weight gain. Some people may gain as much as 15-20 pounds, most likely from neurotransmitter depletion stimulating the appetite. Women are particularly affected by this.”

A study at the University of Minnesota has demonstrated a direct link between amino acid (protein) therapy and safe and effective weight loss. Clinical practice is also demonstrating the effectiveness of this therapy with ADHD.

Prepare to feel better.  Learn more about this . . .

Dr. Mary Ackerley, a Harvard and Johns Hopkins trained board certified psychiatrist, explains:  “Anti-depressants act as a safety net that provide initial relief and management of symptoms.  They recirculate neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine that are required for mood regulation and hormonal function. The downside is that these drugs are only able to work with neurotransmitters that we currently have in our systems.

Additionally, “Sadly these drugs actually exhaust and deplete neurotransmitters. Anti-depressants stimulate the circulation of available neurotransmitters which is why patients initially experience mood elevation. Eventually though, the small pool of neurotransmitters become worn out and no longer function. This is why patients often switch to a different drug to gain relief.  Patients are reluctant to stop using them because they are terrified of returning to prior states of hopelessness and despair.”

Are there hopeful ways forward?  It is now possible to supply the brain with the materials (amino acids – proteins) to build up the level of neurotransmitters, not just recycle a diminished supply.  By supplying the right balance of amino acid precursors and cofactors we can increase the available pool of neurotransmitters.  The right balance of the vitamins, minerals and amino acids to balance our brain’s chemistry – building the biochemical chain to increase the supply of neurotransmitters that can dramatically improve our condition.

So what will these neurotransmitters do?  What conditions besides depression are affected?  Dr. Ackerley:  “Neurotransmitters have many functions in the body. Low levels affect our moods. They also influence appetite signals, hormones, and weight regulation. There is a well known correlation between the use of anti-depressants and weight gain. Some people may gain as much as 15-20 pounds, most likely from neurotransmitter depletion stimulating the appetite. Women are particularly affected by this.”

A study at the University of Minnesota has demonstrated a direct link between amino acid (protein) therapy and safe and effective weight loss. Clinical practice is also demonstrating the effectiveness of this therapy with ADHD.

Prepare to feel better.  Learn more about this . . .