3FC began as a personal source of diet support for sisters Suzanne, Jennifer, and Amy in 1997. The site has grown considerably based on the feedback of the many. Your local grocery store is packed with thousands of options, some of them good for you, othersnot so much, despite what their labels might claim. 5-HTP supplement depression side effects dosage, sleep benefit, for stress, appetite suppression, weight loss dosage. Gut Health - Our Second Brain, Point of Return. Our Second Brain. If you’ve ever had your stomach in knots before speaking in public, then you know the stomach listens carefully to the brain. In fact, according to William Whitehead, Ph. D, a professor of medicine and an adjunct professor of psychology at the University of North Carolina, the entire digestive system is closely attuned to a person’s emotions and state of mind. People with irritable bowel syndrome often suffer symptoms during times of stress and anxiety, and even perfectly healthy people can have an increase of stomach pain, nausea, constipation or diarrhea during stressful life events. There is a constant exchange of chemicals and electrical messages between the two systems. In fact, many scientists often refer to them as one entity; the brain- gut axis. Therefore, what affects the stomach will directly affect the brain and vice versa. Medications designed to target the brain can also cause nausea, diarrhea, constipation or abdominal upset because the body actually has two brains – one encased in the skull, and a lesser known but vitally important one found in the human gut. Fat- soluble drugs penetrate the gut wall and can injure the natural balance of the digestive system. Antidepressants, benzodiazepines and sleeping pills are all fat- soluble, meaning they dissolve in fat and not water. SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) are believed to ease depression by enhancing levels of Serotonin to the brain. But 9. 5% of the Serotonin in the body lies in the digestive system, and diverting the supplies of Serotonin from their natural receptors can increase anxiety, alter sleep patterns, cause sexual dysfunction and adversely affect the cardiovascular region. Balancing the hotbed of Serotonin production in the gut is critical to restoring the balance. Some scientists believe that SSRIs boost Serotonin in the gut and change the signals to the brain, since antidepressants prevent the uptake of Serotonin by cells that should be using it. But Serotonin is calming to the digestive tract. This may explain why some SSRI users experience nausea, stomach upset, constipation, diarrhea, and fluctuations in appetite. GABA receptors for Benzodiazepines and Sleeping Pills are also located in the gut and depress gastrointestinal movement, which can cause constipation. But the continued use of medications that target GABA also increase the level of stress on the body. And in many ways, the connection between stress and the gut may be the most visible brain- gut connection. This may explain why the gut naturally produces benzodiazepines, to keep the natural state of calm that is necessary for proper functioning. Nearly every chemical that controls the brain is also located in the stomach region, including hormones and neurotransmitters such as Serotonin, Dopamine, Glutamate, GABA and Norepinephrine. The gut contains 1. But there are also two- dozen small brain proteins; major cells of the immune system; one class of the body’s natural opiates; and native benzodiazepines. The gut, known as the enteric nervous system, is located in sheaths of tissue lining the esophagus, stomach, small intestine and colon, and plays a key role in human emotions. But few know the enteric nervous system exists, and therefore gut health is often overlooked. Symptoms from the two brains can get confused, and just as the brain can upset the gut, the gut can also upset the brain. The brain signals the gut region by talking to a small number of command neurons, which in turn signal relay neurons that carry messages and control the pattern of activity in the gut. The term Solar Plexus simply refers to the nerves in the abdomen. But these plexuses also contain cells that nourish neurons and are involved in immune response and the protection of the “blood brain barrier” to keep harmful substances away from the important neurons. There are also sensors for sugar, protein, acid and other factors that monitor the progress of digestion, determining how the gut mixes and handles its contents. Diabetes Pathophysiology Treatment Diabetes & Alternative Diabetes Treatment Learn how to eat right to fight harder, gain lean muscle weight, burn fat, or just look sexy! This isn’t just a boxing diet plan, it’s a common sense diet plan. The first step involves removing the main source of toxicity which means cleaning up and restoring digestive health through the. During sleep, the head’s brain produces 9. REM) where dreams occur. During the night, when it is empty, the gut’s brain produces 9. These two brains are linked even in sleep. Individuals with bowel problems have been shown to also have abnormal REM sleep. When the central brain encounters severe tension, it releases stress hormones that prepare the body for flight or fight. The stomach in turn contains many sensory nerves that are stimulated by this chemical surge – thus the feeling of butterflies. Fear also causes the Serotonin circuits in the gut to increase their intensity, resulting in diarrhea. Both stimulation and inhibition are important to the normal transmission of messages. GABA neurons selectively slow the excited responses, which is why benzodiazepines are known to dampen experiences. GABA enhancing drugs such as benzodiazepines and sleeping pills perform a sedative force on the GABA receptors. But GABA is meant to only periodically regulate the excited transmissions, and the long- term intensification of GABA can decrease the receptor’s ability to reduce excitation – thus creating increased anxiety, insomnia and depression. Any drugs that alter the balance of these neurotransmitters can also affect sleep. The answer is not to add more GABA, Serotonin or other chemicals, but to restore the equilibrium of chemical production. There is a natural symphony of chemicals in the stomach region that balance our emotions, sleep, pain and energy. Benzodiazepines cause profound alterations throughout the brain and gut and an eventual reduction in GABA levels. Dose tolerance and abrupt withdrawals may be accompanied by uncontrolled release of Dopamine, Serotonin and other neurotransmitters. Lower GABA levels cause an increase in Norepinephrine that encourages quick emotional responses such as anger, and discourages deliberate logical thinking. High Norepinephrine causes adrenalin to be released, which can cause the heart to beat faster and harder. This also causes red corpuscle reserves to be placed in the bloodstream, which in turn causes energy sources, nutrients and oxygen to be diverted from organs and into the muscles. This is where high blood pressure occurs. But low GABA also causes a decrease in Serotonin, which makes sleep difficult and causes depression, irritability and a lack of rational emotion. The benzodiazepine receptors are also involved in the regulation of pain perception, modulation of the immune and inflammatory systems, and the protection of cells from damage by free radicals. This helps to explain why continued use of benzodiazepines can increase pain and cause a breakdown of the immune system, while also inducing anxiety and insomnia. Often a painkiller is added. But pain medication lowers natural Opioid levels, resulting in abnormal pain perception - causing an increase in Dopamine release that leads to anxiety. Continued Dopamine release causes emotional fatigue. Low Opioid levels also cause the lowering of GABA, which can increase anxiety, insecurity, unexplained panic and depression. The Serotonin reduction further decreases Opioid levels, and the Stress Cycle repeats with increasing intensity. Every time one neurotransmitter is altered, it starts a chain reaction in the remaining chemicals. Because many medications stimulate sensory nerves in the stomach, they can also cause nausea, constipation or diarrhea. Even some antibiotics act on gut receptors, causing cramps and nausea. Drugs like morphine and benzodiazepines attach to the gut’s GABA receptors and produce constipation. SSRIs work by redistributing neurotransmitters such as Serotonin and Norepinephrine, which can cause constipation or diarrhea. Therefore, a healthy stomach is essential to keep the precise balance of chemicals for optimal mental and physical health. Various chemicals in the stomach also work to breakdown food. They include the digestive enzymes pepsin, rennin and lipase, but also the production of hydrochloric acid to establish a suitable environment for the enzymes and assist in digestion. Often additional medications are added to stop the production of stomach acid in an attempt to ease gas, bloating and pain. But without adequate acid, the entire sequence of digestion can become compromised, since gastric acid is necessary for optimal digestion and nutrient assimilation. Hydrochloric acid is the prevalent stomach acid that is secreted naturally and is necessary to breakdown and absorb protein; activate enzymes; and for the absorption of carbohydrates, fats, vitamins and minerals. The presence of acid also assists in muscle contractions that push food through the intestines while destroying parasites, bacteria, fungi and other invaders. Without sufficient acid, microorganisms that are normally destroyed can proliferate, raising the risk of gastrointestinal infections. Additionally, the acid coming from the stomach tells the pancreas and gall bladder to pour alkaline juices in the small intestine. Without the alkaline release, a systemic acid level can build to dangerous levels, and has been associated with cardiovascular disease, diabetes and cancer. And of course, an imbalance in the stomach adversely affects the brain, resulting in increased anxiety, depression and insomnia. The digestive tract should have 4. Antibiotics not only kill the harmful bacteria, but also destroy beneficial bacteria essential to a healthy digestive tract. This in turn impairs digestion and the assimilation of nutrients. But stress, medications, poor diet and even treated city water that contain chlorine and sodium fluoride all contribute to the breakdown of the healthy stomach bacteria. Therefore, it is important to replenish the friendly bacteria to promote good gut health. A healthy lower intestine should contain at least 8. E. Our bodies can sustain healthy states with 1. Probiotics are carefully prepared friendly bacteria that replenish the microbial balance. Serotonin Syndrome: Causes, Symptoms & Diagnosis. Medically Reviewed by Steven Kim, MD on December 2. Written by Jacquelyn Cafasso What Is Serotonin Syndrome? Serotonin syndrome is a potentially serious drug interaction. It occurs when too much serotonin builds up in your body. Nerve cells normally produce serotonin. It’s a neurotransmitter, which is a chemical. It helps regulate: digestionblood flowbody temperaturebreathing. It also plays an important role in the proper functioning of nerve and brain cells. If you take different prescribed medicines that treat depression, migraine headaches, and manage pain together, you may end up with too much serotonin in your body. Too much serotonin can cause a variety of mild to severe symptoms. These symptoms can affect the brain, muscles, and other parts of the body. Serotonin syndrome typically occurs when you start a new medication. It can also occur if you increase the dosage of a medication you’re already taking. The condition is most likely to occur when two or more drugs are taken together. Serotonin syndrome can be fatal if you don’t receive prompt treatment. Symptoms What Are the Symptoms of Serotonin Syndrome? You may have symptoms within minutes or hours of taking a new medication or increasing the dose of a medication. The symptoms may include: confusiondisorientationirritabilityanxietymuscle spasmsmuscle rigiditytremorsshiveringdiarrhearapid heartbeat, or tachycardiahigh blood pressurenauseahallucinationsoveractive reflexes, or hyperreflexiadilated pupils. In more severe cases, the symptoms may include: unresponsivenessa comaseizuresan irregular heartbeat. Causes What Are the Causes of Serotonin Syndrome? Typically, the condition occurs when you combine two or more medications, illicit drugs, or nutritional supplements that increase serotonin levels. For example, you might take medicine to help with a migraine after already taking an antidepressant. Certain types of prescription medications, such as antibiotics, antivirals used to treat HIV and AIDS, and some prescription medicines for nausea and pain may also increase serotonin levels. Examples of drugs and supplements associated with serotonin syndrome include: Antidepressants. Antidepressants associated with serotonin syndrome include: selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), such as Celexa and Zoloftserotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), such as Effexortricyclic antidepressants, such as nortriptyline and amitriptylinemonoamine oxidase inhibitors (MAOIs), such as Nardil and Marplanother antidepressants, such as Wellbutrin (also used to control tobacco addiction)Migraine Medications (Triptan Category)Migraine medications in a drug category called “triptans” are also associated with serotonin syndrome. These include: Illegal Drugs. Certain illegal drugs are associated with serotonin syndrome. These include: LSDecstasy (MDMA)cocaineamphetamines. Herbal Supplements. Certain herbal supplements are associated with serotonin syndrome. These include: Cold and Cough Medications. Certain over- the- counter cold and cough medications that contain dextromethorphan are associated with serotonin syndrome. These include: Diagnosis How Is Serotonin Syndrome Diagnosed? There’s no specific laboratory test for serotonin syndrome. Your doctor may begin by reviewing your medical history and symptoms. Be sure to tell your doctor if you’re taking any medications or have used illegal drugs in recent weeks. This information can help your doctor make a more accurate diagnosis. Your doctor will usually perform several other tests. These will help your doctor find out if certain organs or body functions have been affected. They can also help your doctor rule out other conditions. Some conditions have similar symptoms to serotonin syndrome. These include infections, drug overdose, and hormonal problems. A condition known as neuroleptic malignant syndrome also has similar symptoms. It’s an adverse reaction to medications used to treat psychotic diseases. Tests your doctor may order include: a complete blood count (CBC)a blood culturethyroid function testsdrug screenskidney function testsliver function tests. Treatments What Are the Treatments for Serotonin Syndrome? If you have a very mild case of serotonin syndrome, your doctor may only advise you to stop taking the medication causing the problem immediately. If you have severe symptoms, you’ll need to go to the hospital. At the hospital, your doctor will closely monitor your condition. You might also receive the following treatments: withdrawal of any medication that caused the conditionintravenous fluids for dehydration and fevermedications that help relieve muscle stiffness or agitation medications that block serotonin, such as Periactin (cyproheptadine)Complications What Are the Complications Associated with Serotonin Syndrome? Severe muscle spasms can lead to a breakdown of muscle tissue. The breakdown of this tissue can lead to severe kidney damage. The hospital may need to use medications that temporarily paralyze your muscles to prevent further damage. A breathing tube and respirator will help you breathe. Outlook What Is the Long- Term Outlook? The outlook is very good with treatment. There are typically no further problems once serotonin levels return to normal. However, serotonin syndrome can be fatal if it’s not treated. Prevention How Can I Prevent Serotonin Syndrome? You can’t always prevent serotonin syndrome. Make sure your doctor knows what medications you’re taking. Your doctor should closely monitor you if you’re taking a combination of medications known to increase serotonin levels. This is especially important right after you start a new medication or right after you increase your dosage. The FDA requires warning labels on products to warn patients of the risk of serotonin syndrome.
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