CraniYums University - Hormones & Neurotransmitters

Hormones & Neurotransmitters

Hormones are also important messengers but unlike neurotransmitters, hormones are produced in glands throughout the body. (ovaries, thyroid, pancreas, adrenals, pituitary). Hormones and neurotransmitters interact by passing messages back and forth. The main hormones affecting neurotransmitters include:

Insulin - The hormone insulin regulates blood and brain sugar (glucose) levels. Healthy brain function requires having a constant level of glucose at all times. Erratic swings in blood sugar and insulin levels , mainly caused by unhealthy eating, lead to hypoglycemia (low sugar levels) and poor brain performance. Correction of eating patterns is strongly encouraged by: eating at more regular intervals (every 3-6 hours), including adequate dietary protein and complex carbohydrates with each meal or snack, and avoiding excesses of processed or simple carbohydrates. A very effective and simple eating method to stabilize brain sugar levels is described in the book, The Insulin Resistance Diet (McGraw-Hill) by Cheryle R. Hart, M.D. and Mary Kay Grossman, R.D. Their unique Link and Balance Eating Method has been successfully used by over 40,000 clients and readers.
(Read more about the Insulin Resistance Diet at www.irdiet.com)

Thyroid , In addition to its effects on metabolism, optimal thyroid function is required to increase blood circulation in the brain.

Adrenal Hormones – Cortisol and DHEA (dehydroandrosterone) are critical stress-reacting hormones. They are produced in the adrenal glands, which lie atop of each kidney. Cortisol is the main hormone that recognizes stress and signals appropriate neurotransmitter release. This 'fight or flight' reaction is an essential survival response of all mammals. When prolonged stress occurs (chronic physical or emotional stress) high demands on cortisol and DHEA eventually deplete them. Neurotransmitters do not receive proper signals and deficiency symptoms occur. Immune defenses also weaken with chronic stress.

For additional information visit the websites for The Feel-Good Diet and The Insulin Resistance Diet

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