In spring a young squirrel’s fancy turns because the days are getting longer, and exposure to longer light periods sets off a chain reaction involving the brain and pituitary gland, resulting in release of hormones that affect sex hormone levels and in turn cause the sex glands to enlarge and produce their sex hormones. —Joseph […]
Science consists in grouping facts so that general laws or conclusions may be drawn from them. —Charles Darwin Sleep is a complex state controlled by a number of different brain chemicals. In aged individuals, these brain chemicals may not be made in as great a quantity as in youth. Brain cells may become less sensitive […]
A deficiency of acetylcholine, another neurotransmitter, can also lead to depression. Deaner®, a prescription drug, increases acetylcholine levels in the brain. It is both an active analogue and a precursor of acetylcholine and is effective in many old people as an antidepressive—it reduces apathy and increases motivation, as well as improving memory and learning in […]
We have had experience with several antidepressive nutrients and drugs. Phenylalanine, an amino acid found in relatively large amounts in meat, milk, cheese, and some other high protein foods, is a very effective and quick remedy for a wide variety of depressions, including the depressive phase of manic-depressive illness and endogenous, schizophrenic, and post-amphetamine depression. […]
As noted in the preceding chapter, choline bitartrate, the most common type of choline sold at health food stores, can cause diarrhea. If you do use it, you may be able to avoid diarrhea by beginning at a low dose and increasing the amount gradually. Choline chloride (also called choline hydrochloride) does not have this […]
For each neurochemical there is an optimal amount which differs for every individual. Above or below this amount, mental function will not improve markedly or will even decrease. Drug effects may be subtle at first, requiring a period of learning for full realization of its benefits. The schematic diagram here shows how neurotransmitters carry messages […]
I don’t mean to deny that the evidence is in some ways very strongly in favor of your theory. I only wish to point out that there are other theories possible. —Sherlock Holmes, Adventure of the Norwood Builder The aim of science is to seek the simplest explanation of complex facts. We are apt to […]
Old people often suffer from a deficiency of serotonin, an important inhibitory neurotransmitter that initiates sleep. Inhibitory neurotransmitters reduce neuron activity, in contrast to the above-mentioned neurotransmitters, which usually increase activity. Sleep disorders are common in old age, including difficulties in falling and staying asleep. Irritability and bedtime flights of ideas may occur. Tryptophan, an […]
Read more The Decline of Your Brain’s Chemical Messengers VI
Pathway for synthesis and metabolism of serotonin. In similar studies in rats, life extension was produced by giving oxytocin alone. Low acetylcholine levels contribute to the forgetfulness and lack of ability to concentrate which often occurs in old age. The cholinergic nervous system also controls the sensory input; too little acetylcholine and you are easily […]
Read more The Decline of Your Brain’s Chemical Messengers IV
Catecholamines are responsible for a number of different effects in normal humans. They are involved in control of locomotor (moving about) behavior, aggressive behavior, sexual behavior, food intake, and behavior dependent upon positive (reward) and negative (punishment) reinforcement. Acetylcholine controls muscle tone and motor activity and has a role in memory, learning, and long-term planning, […]
Read more The Decline of Your Brain’s Chemical Messengers III