Taurine is an amino acid created naturally in our bodies. It has calming, but not sedating, effects throughout our brains and bodies. It plays an important role as a protector of healthy cells and tissues, and overall cardiovascular health. Taurine also promotes healthy GABA levels, glucose balance, and neural development. It also functions as a nervous system depressant, specifically affecting the sympathetic nervous system which is our bodies’ fight-or-flight response, therefore lessening anxiety.

Healthy levels of taurine can relieve anxiety, promote healthier sleep, improve exercise performance, and improve metabolism.

Low levels of taurine can lead to depression, impaired vision, weight gain, and anxiety.

High levels can lead to nausea, headaches, and dizziness but are very uncommon because human bodies tolerate taurine very well. 

Are Your Taurine Levels Off-Balance?

Taurine is found naturally in many meats, such as turkey, chicken, and beef, and seafoods, such as tuna, scallops, tilapia, and octopus. For those with vegan or vegetarian diets, seaweed is also a good source of taurine.

Do you have a low level in one or more of your inhibitory transmitters?  The following foods and supplements are generally good for improving several of your inhibitory transmitters. 

Read the labels!  Several of these should not be used concurrently with SSRI medications or MAO inhibitors, or sedative medications.

• B6 COMPLEX (Pure Encapsulation)    Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin [no flush], Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Choline, Inositol
• Neurotransmitter Balance (Douglas Labs)   L-Tyrosine, Mucuna pruriens, SAMe, 5-HTP, Venetron® [Rafuma Leaf, Apocynum venetum]
• Emotional Wellness (Pure Encapsulation) 5-HTP, B6, L-Tyrosine, GABA, L-Theanine, Rhodiola, Passion Flower, Vitamin C
• Optimized Tryptophan Plus (Life Extension) Niacin, L-Trypotophan, L-Lysine, Proprietary Tryptophan Plus Blend
• GABA (Pure Encapsulations) GABA
• Zen Sleep with P5P and 5-HTP (Allergy Research Group) GABA, L-Theanine, L-5-Hydroxytryptophan, Vitamin B6

General Multi-Vitamin/Multi-Mineral Supplements you might consider

• Nutrient 950 (Pure Encapsulation) Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid (B5), Calcium, Iron, Iodine, Magnesium, Zinc, Selenium, Copper, Manganese, Chromium, Molybdenum, Potassium, Boron, Vanadium, Carotenoid blend [lutein, lycopene, zeaxanthin]  NOTE:  there are many Nutrient 950 blends, you can choose with/without some of the above ingredients.
• Multi T/D (Pure Encapsulation)   Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Vitamin E, Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Iodine, Zinc, Selenium, Chromium, Carotenoid blend, Lutein, Zeaxanthin, Lycopene
• O.N.E. (Pure Encapsulation)   Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D (D3), Vitamin E, Thiamin (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Niacin, Vitamin B6, Folate, Vitamin B12, Biotin, Pantothenic Acid, Iodine, Zinc, Selenium, Manganese, Chromium, Molybdenum, Boron, Choline, Inositol, CoQ10, Alpha lipoic acid, FloraGLO® lutein, Zeaxanthin, Lycopene
• Vitamin B6 is important for the synthesis of many neurotransmitters, including GABA, serotonin, dopamine, noradrenalin, histamine, glycine, and d-serine
• 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) and L-Tyrosine are key precursors for the synthesis of several neurotransmitters responsible for a healthy emotional outlook, including, serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine.  These neurotransmitters are involved in the regulation of endocrine and brain activity, in addition to sleep/wake cycles. 5-HTP is a chemical by-product of the protein building block L-tryptophan.  5-HTP, also known as oxitriptan, is a naturally occurring amino acid and metabolic intermediate in the synthesis of serotonin and melatonin.   5-HTP is sold as a dietary supplement for use as an antidepressant, appetite suppressant, and sleep aid.  
• Magnesium is essential to keep everything working well overall; a nutrient that the body needs to stay healthy. Magnesium is important for many processes in the body, including regulating muscle and nerve function, blood sugar levels, and blood pressure and making protein, bone, and DNA.

Urinary Excitatory Neurotransmitters

The role of excitatory neurotransmitters is to aid in our brains’ communication pipeline. They excite our neurons and spark movement, cognition, and function. If our levels are too high, our neurons will be overexcited, but if our levels are too low, our neurons will be understimulated, causing feelings of fatigue. In essence, we need healthy levels of these neurotransmitters to get us going and keep us moving.  

In this section we will cover the Urinary Excitatory Neurotransmitters in your Lab Test Report, which include:  Glutamine, Glutamate, PEA, Tyrosine, Tyramine, Dopamine, DOPAC, HVA, Norepinephrine, Normetanephrine, Epinephrine, VMA, Histidine, Histamine, and N-Methylhistamine.

Glutamine - The most abundant free amino acids in the human body. It functions as a neural protector and a parent precursor to both GABA and glutamate, the primary inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitters.

Glutamate - The most prominent excitatory neurotransmitter in our central nervous system. It functions as the “on” switch in our sleep-wake cycle and regulates appetite, cognition, digestion, learning, memory, and libido.

PEA - Phenylethylamine functions as an amplifier for dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin, and acetylcholine. It contributes to feelings of well-being, pleasure, and alertness, and also improves memory, impulse control, and stimulates cognition. 

Tyrosine, Tyramine - Tyrosine is an amino acid that functions as the parent precursor to dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. It also plays a role as a precursor to thyroid hormones and is essential for cognitive function. As it is used throughout our body, it metabolizes into tyramine.

Dopamine, DOPAC, HVA - Dopamine is one of our main “feel good” neurotransmitters.  As it is used throughout our bodies, it metabolizes into both DOPAC and HVA.  Your Lab Test Report will show your levels of dopamine, DOPAC, and HVA which are responsible for 

• regulating many of our bodies’ internal systems, including digestion, heart and kidney function, insulin regulation and pancreatic function, and our stress response. 
• affects judgement and decision making, mood, sleep regulation, pain processing, motor function, and cognition. 

Norepinephrine, Normetanephrine - Norepinephrine plays two roles in our body as a neurotransmitter and hormone, called noradrenalin, functioning as half of our fight-or-flight response. As a neurotransmitter, norepinephrine contributes to alertness and focus, increases blood pressure, reduces digestion, appetite, pain, and sleep, and regulates our body temperature. Your Lab Test Report measures the hormone levels from the body. As a hormone, norepinephrine coupled with adrenaline gets us moving and keeps us alert by increasing blood flow and heart rate, raising our blood pressure, breaking down fat, and increasing our blood sugar levels to give us energy.  As it is used in our bodies as a hormone, it metabolizes to normetanephrine.

Epinephrine, VMA - Epinephrine is both a neurotransmitter and a hormone, known as adrenaline. As a neurotransmitter it functions alongside norepinephrine as the other half of our bodies fight-or-flight response, increasing alertness, focus, blood pressure, and vigilance, while reducing digestion, appetite, pain, and sleep. Your Lab Test Report measures the hormone levels from the body. Coupled with norepinephrine, adrenaline gets us moving and keeps us alert by increasing blood flow and heart rate, raising our blood pressure, breaking down fat, and increasing our blood sugar levels to give us energy.  As it is used in our bodies, it metabolizes to VMA.

Ratio of Norepinephrine : Epinephrine - This ratio is used to determine our body’s androgen levels. Androgens are hormones that play a role in male/ female traits and reproductive activity.

Histidine - Histidine is a semi-essential amino acid, meaning that it is derived from our diet but can also be created in our bodies. It is the parent precursor to histamine and is also a protector in our bodies.

Histamine, N-Methylhistamine - Histamine plays a dual role as a neurotransmitter and an immune response modulator in our bodies. For your Lab Test Report we are interested in its neurotransmitter role.  Histamine is responsible for stimulating wakefulness and decreasing sleep, increasing metabolism, suppressing appetite, and preventing weight gain. It is also an inflammatory agent and functions as a vasodilator. As it is used in our bodies, it is metabolized into N-Methylhistamine.

*Note: The following statements regarding supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The following recommendations are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.*

Glutamine is the most abundant amino acid in the human body. It is an essential amino acid, meaning that it cannot be made in the body and it must come from our diet. Glutamine is responsible for fueling our rapidly dividing cells and contributes to the creation of proteins, other amino acids, nucleic acids, and glutathione. It keeps our bodies and organs pH balanced, helps in digestion and tissue repair, function as a precursor to muscle growth, and protects our intestinal lining. Glutamine is also the parent precursor to our primary inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA, and primary excitatory neurotransmitter, glutamate.

Healthy levels of glutamine can help to improve our immune system function, balance ammonia levels in our bodies, and reduce cravings for alcohol and sugar.

Low levels can lead to symptoms of insomnia, concentration problems, mental exhaustion, low energy, frequent colds and flus due to a depleted immune system, and mood swings. It also plays a role in overtraining syndrome.

High levels of glutamine have been linked to migraines, depression, chronic fatigue, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder, mood swings, and confusion that can trigger aggression. 

Are Your Glutamine Levels Off-Balance?

If your glutamine levels are low, you may consider taking a free form glutamine supplement:

L-GLUTAMINE POWDER (Pure Encapsulations) :  L-Glutamine (Free Form) 3g

Glutamate is one of the most abundant communicators in our brains. It’s proven to be present in 90% of all synapses. It plays an important role in our 

• ability to learn and create memories, and is 
• directly linked to our overall cognitive function
• regulates appetite, digestion, libido, and 
• decreases sleep by functioning as the “on” switch in our sleep-wake cycle. 
• mediates our emotions, motor function, and sensory processing information. 

Healthy levels of glutamate are known to improve libido and optimize our learning, memory, and mood. 

Low levels of glutamate can present as insomnia and other sleep interruptions, difficulty concentrating, mental exhaustion, agitation, depression, chronic fatigue, and low energy.

High levels of glutamate can present as anxiety, panic attacks, depression, impulsivity, inability to focus, and disturbed sleep patterns.

Are your Glutamate levels off-balance?

Glutamate is found in food as Glutamic Acid. It is prevalent in high protein foods like meats and seafoods. It can also be found in high concentrations in seaweeds, fish sauces, cheeses, soy sauce, tomatoes, miso, mushrooms, and spinach.

You may also consider these supplements.  The primary supplement ingredient affecting your hormone levels is highlighted in yellow, and secondary supplements needed to “help” the primary ingredient to become bioavailable are in green, and ingredients that help support overall hormone levels are in blue:

L-GLUTAMINE POWDER (Pure Encapsulations) :  L-Glutamine (Free Form) 3g

AMINO-NR (Pure Encapsulations) : Vitamin B6 3.3mg, Alpha Ketoglutarate 100mg, Alpha Lipoic Acid 50mg, L-Histidine 77mg, L-Isoleucine 117mg, L-Leucine 207mg, L-Lysine HCI monohydrate 225mg, L-Methionine 158mg, L-Phenylalanine 86mg, L-Threonine 104mg, L-Valine 113mg, L-Alanine 41mg, L-Arginine HCI 68mg, L-Glutamine 338mg, Glycine 68mg, L-Proline 135mg, L-Serine 68mg, L-Tyrosine 36mg, L-Tryptophan 33mg, Taurine 23mg

Phenylethylamine, or PEA, an endogenous neuroamine, is commonly referred to as the “love chemical” due to its function of increasing the action and function of dopamine, norepinephrine, acetylcholine, and serotonin in our brain’s communication channels. These neurotransmitters, in conjunction with each other, 

• create feelings of well-being, 
• power our reward centers, and are 
• responsible for our libido, and our 
• feelings of romantic and platonic love, 
• protects our neural circuitry from overexciting or understimulating by creating balance.
  
  

Phenylethylamine (PEA), increases attention and activity in animals and has been shown to relieve depression in 60% of depressed patients. It has been proposed, in small sample studies (nih.gov) that PEA deficit may be the cause of a common form of depressive illness, and has been clinically used to treat depression in place of medication. 

Healthy levels of PEA have a stimulating effect that improves our mood, regulates our anger and aggression, increases our energy and attention, and promotes an overall feeling of well-being.

Low levels of PEA often present in our lives as bouts of sadness and a low mood.

High levels of PEA may present as anxiety and insomnia.

Are your PEA levels off-balance?

Our bodies naturally increase production of PEA during exercise. 

You may also consider these supplements.  The primary supplement ingredient affecting your hormone levels is highlighted in yellow, and secondary supplements needed to “help” the primary ingredient to become bioavailable are in green, and ingredients that help support overall hormone levels are in blue:

P5P 50 (Pure Encapsulations) : Pyridoxal 5 Phosphate (activated B6) 50mg

B-Complex Plus (Pure Encapsulations) : Thiamin HCI (B1) 100mg, Riboflavin (activated B2) 12.7mg, Niacin 108mg, Vitamin B6 (activated) 16.7mg, Folate (as Metafolin®) 667mcg, Vitamin B12 400mcg, Biotin 400mcg, Pantothenic Acid (B5) 100mg

DL-Phenylalanine (Pure Encapsulations) : DL-Phenylalanine (free form) 500mg

Tyrosine is a semi-essential amino acid, meaning that is both produced in our bodies naturally and obtained from our diet. It is a precursor for dopamine, epinephrine, and norepinephrine. Tyrosine is also a precursor to our thyroid hormones, and prevents the depletion of our neurotransmitters. As it is used in our bodies, tyrosine is metabolized into the trace amine, tyramine.

Healthy levels of tyrosine are known to enhance cognitive performance, energy, alertness, and memory.

Low levels have been associated with low blood pressure and body temperature, depression, and an underactive thyroid. 

High levels are linked to migraines, high blood pressure, and irregular bowel habits.

Are Your Tyrosine and Tyramine Levels Off-Balance?

Both tyrosine and tyramine are found readily and abundantly in foods. Tyrosine can be found in sesame seeds, cheese, soy, meat, nuts, and fish. Tyramine can be found in aged, smoked, and fermented foods, such as aged cheeses, cured or smoked meats, beers, and red wine. 

Addressing our imbalanced levels can be achieved through lifestyle change of either adding or removing these sources of tyrosine and tyramine from our diet.

While dopamine is commonly known as the “feel good chemical,” it plays a much more critical role in our lives. Along with pleasure, feelings of well-being, and our reward circuitry, dopamine also 

• affects our blood flow, digestion, executive functioning, heart and kidney functioning, 
• memory and focus, mood and emotion, motor control, pain processing, 
• sleep, pancreatic function and insulin regulation, and 
• stress response. 

It is also a contributing factor in decision making and motor function. DOPAC and HVA are metabolic by-products of dopamine. They’re used as secondary indicators of the way dopamine is being processed in the central nervous system. 

Healthy levels of dopamine present with feelings of alertness, focus, motivation, and happiness.

Low levels present as apathy, difficulty concentrating, low libido, poor coordination, and reduced alertness. It is also linked to cravings, fatigue, memory problems, and increased sensitivity to pain.

High levels can show up as frantic and nervous energy, anxiety, mood swings, and has been linked to obesity and addiction.

Are your Dopamine, DOPAC, or HVA levels off-balance?

Since dopamine is linked to our reward centers, you can get a natural boost from puzzles and other games. It’s also effective to exercise, maintain a healthy sleep pattern, spend some time in the sun, and meditate.

High levels of dopamine are also found in bananas, plantain, and avocados, and lower levels can be found in some fruits and vegetables like oranges, apples, eggplant, spinach, peas, and beans.

You may also consider these supplements.  The primary supplement ingredient affecting your hormone levels is highlighted in yellow, and secondary supplements needed to “help” the primary ingredient to become bioavailable are in green, and ingredients that help support overall hormone levels are in blue:

DOPAC:

L-Tyrosine (Pure Encapsulations) : L-Tyrosine (free form) 500mg

Magnesium (Glycinate) (Pure Encapsulations) : Magnesium 120mg

InflaMed (Allergy Research Group) : Zinc 10mg, Selenium 40mcg, Copper 1mg, Molybdenum 300mcg, MSM 500mg, Indian Frankincense Gum Extract 200mg, Turmeric Extract (root) 400mg, Bromelain 400mg, Ginger Extract (root) 40mg, White Willow Extract (bark) 50mg

Ayur-Curcumin (300mg) (Douglas Labs) : Turmeric (standardized to 90% curcuminoids) 300mg

Theracurmin HP (Integrative Therapeutics) : Theracurmin ® 600mg

HVA:

Ultra Bone-Up (Jarrow Formulas) : Vitamin C 200mg, Vitamin D-3 2,000 IU, Natural MK-7 90mcg, Calcium 1,200mg, Magnesium 500mg, Zinc 10mg, Copper 1mg, Potassium 99mg, JarroSil ® Silicon 5mg, Boron 3mg, MBP ® (Milk Basic Protein) 40mg

Norepinephrine, also known as Noradrenaline, is one of two major players in our body’s fight-or-flight response. It’s general function is to mobilize the brain and body to action and it does this by increasing our heart rate and our blood flow. It affects the way our brains take in information about our surroundings and how we respond.  Normetanephrine is a metabolic by-product of norepinephrine and is used as a secondary indicator of the way norepinephrine is being processed in the central nervous system.

Healthy levels of norepinephrine promote wakefulness, sustain concentration and attention, alertness, speed reaction time, and curb appetite by reducing digestive activity. 

Low levels of norepinephrine can present as depression, apathy, lack of motivation, lack of focus, and low energy. 

High levels of norepinephrine can be a factor in anxiety, impulsivity, panic attacks, and high blood pressure. It is also thought to contribute to aggression, depression, insulin resistance, irritability, and hyperactivity.

Are your Norepinephrine levels off-balance?

Some natural ways to improve your norepinephrine levels are exercise, maintain a healthy sleep pattern, meditation, and experiencing small accomplishments in goal motivated activities. It’s also helpful to take steps towards removing stress from your life.

You may also consider these supplements to resolve high levels of norepinephrine.  The primary supplement ingredient affecting your hormone levels is highlighted in yellow, and secondary supplements needed to “help” the primary ingredient to become bioavailable are in green, and ingredients that help support overall hormone levels are in blue:

Neurotransmitter Balance (Douglas Labs) : L-Tyrosine 300mg, Mucuna Pruriens Extract (seed) 100mg, SAMe 200mg, 5-HTP 75mg, Venetron ® (Rafuma Leaf Extract) 50mg

NeuroPure (Pure Encapsulations) : Vitamin B6 6.7mg, Folate 833mcg, Zinc 10mg, DL-Phenylalanine (free form) 700mg, 5-Hydroxytryptophan 100mg, Meriva ® Turmeric Phytosome 250mg, Quercetin 100mg, Pyridoxal 5-phosphate (activated B6) 10mg

Gabatone™ Active (Apex Energetics, Inc) : Vitamin B6 6.8mg, Magnesium 10mg, Zinc 5mg, Manganese 10mg, L-Taurine 150mg, Valerian (root) Extract 100mg, Passionflower (flower) Extract 100mg, L-Theanine 15mg, Lithium 10mg

AMINO-NR (Pure Encapsulations) : Vitamin B6 3.3mg, Alpha Ketoglutarate 100mg, Alpha Lipoic Acid 50mg, L-Histidine 77mg, L-Isoleucine 117mg, L-Leucine 207mg, L-Lysine HCI monohydrate 225mg, L-Methionine 158mg, L-Phenylalanine 86mg, L-Threonine 104mg, L-Valine 113mg, L-Alanine 41mg, L-Arginine HCI 68mg, L-Glutamine 338mg, Glycine 68mg, L-Proline 135mg, L-Serine 68mg, L-Tyrosine 36mg, L-Tryptophan 33mg, Taurine 23mg

Epinephrine, also known as adrenaline, plays a dual role in our body as both a neurotransmitter and a stress hormone. It is the other half of our body’s fight-or-flight response. In tense situations it provides the body with extra energy by regulating breathing, blood pressure, and heart rate. In times of stress, epinephrine is responsible for reducing our digestive activity, pain, and sleep. It also regulates our body temperature. VMA is a metabolic by-product of both epinephrine and norepinephrine and is used as a secondary indicator of the way these neurotransmitters are processed in our central nervous system.

Healthy levels of epinephrine stimulates wakefulness and focus. 

Low levels of epinephrine can present as depression, disrupted sleep patterns, anxiety, and migraines. It is also believed to contribute to fatigue, low libido, low mood, lack of focus, and memory issues.

High levels of epinephrine are linked to depression, anxiety, and headaches.

Are your Epinephrine levels off-balance?

Some natural ways to affect your body’s levels of epinephrine are to practice breathing exercises, meditate, or participate in gentle exercises that combine breathing with motion, like yoga or Tai Chi. Sharing about stressful situations in your life, with friends or family or even through journaling, has been shown to help regulate epinephrine levels by allowing a release from rumination.

You may also consider these supplements to resolve high levels of epinephrine.  The primary supplement ingredient affecting your hormone levels is highlighted in yellow, and secondary supplements needed to “help” the primary ingredient to become bioavailable are in green, and ingredients that help support overall hormone levels are in blue:

Neurotransmitter Balance (Douglas Labs) : L-Tyrosine 300mg, Mucuna Pruriens Extract (seed) 100mg, SAMe 200mg, 5-HTP 75mg, Venetron ® (Rafuma Leaf Extract) 50mg

NeuroPure (Pure Encapsulations) : Vitamin B6 6.7mg, Folate 833mcg, Zinc 10mg, DL-Phenylalanine (free form) 700mg, 5-Hydroxytryptophan 100mg, Meriva ® Turmeric Phytosome 250mg, Quercetin 100mg, Pyridoxal 5-phosphate (activated B6) 10mg

Gabatone™ Active (Apex Energetics, Inc) : Vitamin B6 6.8mg, Magnesium 10mg, Zinc 5mg, Manganese 10mg, L-Taurine 150mg, Valerian (root) Extract 100mg, Passionflower (flower) Extract 100mg, L-Theanine 15mg, Lithium 10mg

AMINO-NR (Pure Encapsulations) : Vitamin B6 3.3mg, Alpha Ketoglutarate 100mg, Alpha Lipoic Acid 50mg, L-Histidine 77mg, L-Isoleucine 117mg, L-Leucine 207mg, L-Lysine HCI monohydrate 225mg, L-Methionine 158mg, L-Phenylalanine 86mg, L-Threonine 104mg, L-Valine 113mg, L-Alanine 41mg, L-Arginine HCI 68mg, L-Glutamine 338mg, Glycine 68mg, L-Proline 135mg, L-Serine 68mg, L-Tyrosine 36mg, L-Tryptophan 33mg, Taurine 23mg

Norepinephrine and epinephrine are both neurotransmitters and hormones. The balance between norepinephrine and epinephrine is used to determine our testosterone and progesterone, or androgen, levels which affect our emotional balance and libido. 

Are your Androgen levels off-balance?

You may also consider these supplements to resolve high levels of androgens.  The primary supplement ingredient affecting your hormone levels is highlighted in yellow, and secondary supplements needed to “help” the primary ingredient to become bioavailable are in green, and ingredients that help support overall hormone levels are in blue:

Prosta-DHT™ (Apex Energetics, Inc) : Zinc 10mg, Saw Palmetto (berry) 200mg, Pygeum (bark) 100mg, Stinging Nettle (leaf) 100mg, L-Glycine 85mg, L-Glutamic Acid 85mg, Rye Pollen Extract (flower) 80mg, L-Alanine 70mg, Proprietary Blend (Peptidase, Betaine HCI) 18mg

ProstaFlo (Pure Encapsulations) : Rye Flower Extract (pollen) 320mg

ProstaCo (MediHerb) : Nettle (root) Extract (6:4:1) 104mg, Saw Palmetto (fruit) Extract (10:1)107mg, Crataeva (stem bark) Extract (10:1) 90mg, Pumpkin Seed Oil 80mg

Saw Palmetto / Pygeum / Nettle (Vital Nutrients) : Saw Palmetto (fruit) CO2 Extract 909mg, Pygeum Africanum (bark) Extract 300mg, Stinging Nettle (root) Extract 300mg

For low progesterone you may consider these supplements:

Progensa 20 (AllVia) : Progesterone ~20mg, (Purified Water, Aloe Barbadensis, Glycerin, Helianthus Annuus (Sunflower) Seed Oil, Butyrospermum Parkii (Shea Butter), Stearic Acid, Glyceryl Stearate, Progesterone, Stearyl Alcohol, Caprylic/Capric Triglyceride, Isopropyl Palmitate, Phenoxyethanol and Caprylyl Glycol, Elaeis Guineensis (Palm) Oil (and) Tocotrienols (and) Tocopherol, Oenothera Biennis (Evening Primrose) Oil, Lecithin, Sodium Hyaluronate (HA), Methylsulfonylmethane (MSM), Potassium Sorbate, Allantoin, Arctium Lappa (Burdock) Root Extract, Vitis Vinifera (Grape) Seed Extract, and Sodium Bicarbonate)

O.N.E. Multivitamin (Pure Encapsulations) : Vitamin A 1,125mcg, Vitamin C 180mg, Vitamin D 50mcg, Vitamin E 20mg, Thiamin (B1) 3mg, Riboflavin (Vitamin B-2) 3mg, Niacin 20mg, Vitamin B6 4mg, Folate 667mcg DFE, Vitamin B12 500 mcg, Biotin 300mcg, Pantothenic Acid 10mg, Iodine 150mcg, Zinc 25mg, Selenium 70mcg, Manganese 2mg, Chromium, 200mcg, Molybdenum 75mcg, Boron 1mg, Choline 10mg, Inositol 25mg, Coenzyme Q10 sustained-release 50mg, Alpha Lipoic Acid 50mg, FloraGLO ® Lutein 3mg, Zeaxanthin 500mcg, Lycopene 500mcg

Histidine is a semi-essential amino acid, meaning that it can be obtained through diet and can also be naturally created in our bodies. It protects neurons, reduces inflammation, plays a roles in the creation of new blood cells, and plays a key role in tissue repair and growth.

Healthy levels of histidine have been known to 

• Promote clear thinking and concentration
• Alleviate fatigue
• Decrease anxiety
• Reduce appetite
• Improve sleep, and
• Balance glucose levels

Low levels of histidine are commonly present in people that suffer from obesity.

High levels of histidine do not often present with symptoms.

Are Your Histidine Levels Off-Balance?

Histidine can be found in high quantities in many high protein foods like meat, poultry, fish, nuts, seeds, and whole grains. If your Lab Test Report shows that you have a deficit of histidine you may consider increasing your intake of these foods. On the other hand, if your levels of histidine are in the high or high normal range, you may consider lessening your intake of these foods.

Histamine functions in our body as both an excitatory neurotransmitter and as our immune response. Your Lab Test Report focuses on its role as a neurotransmitter, where it plays an important role in 

• promoting our body’s immunities, our appetite, memory and learning, overall cognition, and our motor skills. 
• plays a protective role by responding to and removing unwanted toxins from our bodies and 
• functions as a vasodilator and an immune response agent by triggering inflammation after trauma.

As histamine is used in our bodies, it is metabolized into n-methylhistamine.

Healthy levels of histamine promote a feeling of wakefulness, motivation, goal-directed behaviors, and can even increase our metabolism and prevent weight gain.

Low levels of histamine can present as low energy and fatigue while low levels of N-methylhistamine often present as depression.

High levels of histamine can leave us prone to experience interrupted sleep patterns, impulsivity, addictive behaviors, and heightened allergic response. High levels of N-methylhistamine are often an indicator of food allergies.

Are your Histamine or N-Methylhistmine levels off-balance?

The most beneficial way to resolve suboptimal histamine levels is lifestyle change.

For low levels you may consider some dietary adjustments to include histamine rich foods in your diet. High levels of histamine can be found naturally in eggplant, beer, champagne, wine, aged cheeses, sauerkraut, and spinach.

To resolve high levels of histamine you may consider removing these histamine-rich foods from your diet or taking a low dosage of generic antihistamine medications. 

If your Lab Test Results show either a high or high normal level of N-methylhistamine, you should likely consider testing for food allergies. 

Urinary Estrogens

Although estrogen is commonly known as the “female” hormone, it is actually present in all bodies and plays a role much larger than just it’s commonly known reproductive function. There are three main estrogens that each function differently in our bodies at different stages of life. 

Estrone (E1) is the prominent form of estrogen in postmenopausal female bodies and represents half of the estrogens in adult male bodies. 

Estradiol (E2) is the most prominent estrogen in female bodies during their reproductive years and male bodies during adolescence and early adulthood. 

Estriol (E3) is only present in high concentrations in female bodies during pregnancy, at all other times in male and female bodies, it is nearly undetectable.

In this section we will cover the roles of estrogens in both female and male bodies, possible causes and effects of estrogen imbalances, and some supplements and lifestyle changes that can help balance estrogen levels.

*Note: The following statements regarding supplements have not been evaluated by the FDA. The following recommendations are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.*

ESTROGENS

Female and male bodies both need estrogens to function, though female bodies produce more of it. In all bodies, estrogens contribute to overall cognitive health, bone health, the cardiovascular system, and controls cholesterol levels, skin and other body tissues, and mood. 

Estrogens in female bodies are responsible for maintaining the reproductive system and female characteristics, like breasts and pubic hair. 

In male bodies, estrogens regulate the functions of the reproductive system, including the maturation of sperm and erectile function, and moderates libido. 

Our bodies produce estrogens in the ovaries or testes, adrenal glands, and fat tissues. There are three main estrogens in our bodies that each play an important role during different phases of our lives. 

• Estrone (E1) is a weaker estrogen in our bodies. It’s main purpose is to serve as a precursor to estradiol (E2). It is created in both male and female bodies and is easily converted into more potent forms of estrogen as needed. Estrone (E1) is the most prominent estrogen in postmenopausal female bodies. Other than that most basic function, little research has been done on the effects of estrone in the body due to its lack of potency and prevalence. 

• Estradiol (E2) on the other hand, is the most potent and prominent estrogen in both male and female bodies during much of their lives. In female bodies, estradiol (E2) is mainly produced in the ovaries and for male bodies it is produced in the adrenal glands, testes, and fat tissues. In female bodies during the menstrual cycle, estradiol (E2) causes the maturation and release of the egg and is also responsible for the thickening of the uterine wall to allow implantation. In male bodies during reproductive years, it functions as a vasodilator, therefore increasing blood flow, achieving erections, and lowering blood pressure, and also regulates testicular function by producing sperm. Healthy levels of estradiol (E2) help with bone maintenance, nitric oxide production, and have anti-obesity effects by regulating body weight homeostasis and energy expenditure. 

• Estriol (E3) is a short acting estrogen. In pregnant female bodies, it is produced mainly by the placenta and gradually increases during pregnancy. Estriol (E3) is responsible for preparing female bodies for labor and the birthing process, and promotes uterine growth to support the health of the fetus. Levels of estriol (E3) are nearly undetectable in male bodies and female bodies that aren’t pregnant. 

Healthy levels of estrogens can increase strength, muscle mass, bone density, and speed of muscle regeneration. It also increases our bodies' collagen synthesis and increases the collagen content of our connective tissues, tendons, and ligaments to help prevent injury. Estrogen has anti-inflammatory properties, accelerates metabolism, increases cortisol and sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), regulates a healthy libido, and is responsible for bone maturation and density.

There are many factors that can affect estrogen levels and lead to an imbalance, including 

• age, 
• puberty, 
• pregnancy, 
• menopause, 
• obesity, 
• rapid weight loss or eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa, 
• Turner Syndrome, 
• intense exercise or training, 
• certain medications, 
• certain hygiene products like shampoo that contain parabens that contain estrogen, 
• high blood pressure, 
• diabetes, 
• an underactive pituitary gland, 
• polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), 
• and certain adrenal or ovarian tumors.

The impacts of unbalanced estrogens affect male and female bodies differently.

FEMALE BODIES

Low levels of estrogens in female bodies can present as symptoms of 

• irregular menstrual periods, 
• infertility, 
• weak bones that can lead to Osteoporosis, 
• headaches, 
• breast tenderness, 
• difficulty concentrating, 
• fatigue, 
• pain during intercourse due to vaginal dryness, 
• hot flashes, 
• depression, 
• more frequent urinary tract infections due to weakened urethral walls, 
• binge eating habits, 
• and belly- focused weight gain. 

Along with the contributing factors listed above, low estrogen levels in female bodies can be caused by substance abuse disorder, premature ovarian failure due to genetic irregularities, toxins, or autoimmune conditions, chemotherapy or radiation treatment, or chronic kidney disease. 

High levels can lead to 

• weight gain in the hip and waist areas, 
• menstrual problems including irregular menstrual periods, light spotting, and heavy bleeding, 
• more severe symptoms of PMS, 
• bloating, 
• acne, 
• depression, 
• constipation, 
• cold hands and feet, 
• and difficulty sleeping. 

If levels are extremely high, female bodies are at a much higher risk for cardiovascular disease and breast cancer. 

MALE BODIES

Low levels of estrogens in male bodies can lead to 

• bone loss, 
• Osteoporosis, 
• decreased sex drive, 
• and belly- focused weight gain. 

Along with the contributing factors listed above, low estrogen levels in male bodies can be caused by 

• too much iron in the blood, 
• testicles the don’t descend, 
• some autoimmune conditions, 
• infections of the sexual organs like mumps, 
• exposure to radiation, 
• surgery on the penis or testicles, 
• pituitary dysfunction, 
• Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), 
• malnutrition, 
• vitamin deficiencies, 
• and rapid weight loss. 

High levels in male bodies can cause 

• infertility, 
• depression, 
• erectile dysfunction (ED), 
• development of female characteristics, also called gynecomastia, 
• delayed puberty, 
• short stature, 
• decreased sex drive, 
• low sperm count, 
• loss of sexual function, 
• fatigue, 
• hair loss of the head and body, 
• loss of muscle mass, 
• reduced growth of penis and testicles, 
• loss of bone density, 
• trouble focusing, 
• hot flashes, 
• higher risk of migraines, 

High levels in male bodies can also be an indicator of diabetes, adrenal or testicular tumors, thyroid dysfunction, and Cirrhosis. 

Estrogen levels in male bodies can be raised by stress, weight gain, obesity, and medications like some antibiotics and antipsychotics.

Are Your Estrogen Levels Off-Balance?

Some natural ways to lower your estrogen levels are with simple lifestyle changes.  

You can reduce your alcohol intake, eat a diet low in fats and high in fiber, and exercise regularly. 

Some estrogen blocking chemicals are also found naturally in foods including: 

• cruciferous vegetables like broccoli and kale, 
• shiitake and portobello mushrooms, 
• red grapes, 
• whole grains like rice, oats, and corn, 
• green tea, and 
• pomegranate. 

For male bodies specifically, high levels of estrogens can be addressed by adding supplements that block the body’s creation of estrogens. Some options would be 

• Wild Nettle Root, 
• Chrysin, 
• Maca, and 
• Grapeseed Extract. 

For low levels, it may seem tempting to supplement directly with estrogen but this isn’t always the most effective route. Non-hormonal treatments are recommended for female bodies that are at a higher risk of breast cancer, blood clots, stroke, or liver disease. 

Instead, we recommend that those with low estrogen levels add supplements to their diet that promote the body’s natural production of estrogen. This will help to stabilize hormone levels more naturally while still offering relief from low estrogen symptoms. 

For low levels of estrogen you may consider supplements that include: 

• black cohosh, 
• red clover, 
• flaxseed, 
• sesame seed, 
• B vitamins, 
• vitamin D, 
• Boron, 
• DHEA, 
• chasteberry, 
• Evening Primrose Oil, 
• Dong Quai, or 
• soy isoflavones. 

You may also consider these supplements.  The primary supplement ingredient affecting your hormone levels is highlighted in yellow, and secondary supplements needed to “help” the primary ingredient to become bioavailable are in green, and ingredients that help support overall hormone levels are in blue:

DHEA

Our diurnal cortisol curve is simply the natural daily fluctuation of the stress hormone cortisol. Ideally, cortisol peaks to it's highest level of the day about 30 minutes after waking then gradually declines throughout the day to it's lowest point around midnight as a crucial part of our sleep-wake cycle.

In this section we will cover:

• Cortisol - the overall function and effects of the steroid hormone cortisol and the signs, symptoms, and causes of cortisol imbalance.
• The diurnal cortisol curve - the purpose, effect, and cycle of cortisol fluctuation.

Cortisol is a steroid hormone created in the adrenal cortex. It is released during the body's natural stress response. Almost all cells in the body have cortisol receptors which means that cortisol has many actions depending on which kind of cell it is acting on.

Early humans evolved, out of necessity, to have a fight-or-flight response for the sake of survival. In today's world, we seldom run into such dangerous situations. Though our lifestyles have changed, our instinctive response to stressors have not. Our bodies will now occassionally respond to stress at work and in relationships the same way our distant predecessors' bodies would respond to predators.

During the body's fight-or-flight response, cortisol works to curb bodily functions that would be considered nonessential for or harmful to immediate survival, including slowing the immune response and suppressing the digestive system, reproductive system, and growth processes.

Most importantly, cortisol is the hormone that jars us from sleep in the morning and gives us the burst of energy to go about our day. It keeps us awake through the earlier half of the day as the rest of our hormones and neurotransmitters kick into gear and begin to flow freely.

Healthy levels of cortisol are responsible for:

• Regulating metabolism and blood sugar levels,
• Immune response, 
• Acting as an anti-inflammatory,
• Influencing memory formation,
• Controlling salt and water balance, and 
• Influencing blood pressure.

Low levels of cortisol over time can lead to fatigue, dizziness, weight loss, muscle weakness, and mood changes.

High levels or overexposure to cortisol can put us at an increased risk of: 

• Anxiety,
• Depression,
• Digestive problems,
• Headaches,
• Muscle tension and pain,
• Heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, or stroke,
• Sleep disruptions,
• Weight gain,
• Memory and concentration problems,
• Hyperglycemia or other blood sugar imbalances,
• Decreased muscle tissue,
• Decreased bone density,
• Impaired cognitive performance,
• Decreased immunity, and 
• Suppressed thyroid function.

Are Your Cortisol Levels Off-Balance?

In order to address elevated cortisol levels, the first thing we need to look at is the way that we manage stress in our day to day lives.

It's very important to avoid unhealthy coping mechanisms such as alcohol, tobacco, or drug use, or binge eating behaviors. These outlets for dealing with stress can lead to a myriad of other health problems and provide no positive long term results.

Instead we can learn new and healthy ways to manage stress including:

• Practicing relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises.
• Keeping a daily journal or writing a daily gratitude list to refocus your attention on things in your life that are positive and rewarding.
• Take time to focus on hobbies such as reading, listening to music, or arts and crafts.
• Spend some time fostering healthy relationships with family and friends.
• Spend time volunteering in your community.
• Reprioritize your time to find a healthier balance.
• Maintain a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and get plenty of sleep.
• Seek professional counseling to develop specific coping strategies for your daily life.

You may also consider taking a supplement that contains Fish Oil for their abundance of omega-3 fatty acids or Ashwagandha, which have both been proven to help lower cortisol levels.

Addressing a cortisol deficiency usually begins with caring for your overall adrenal health. If your adrenal system is adequstely supported, then your production of adrenal hormones will naturally improve.

Flavanoids have been shown to be beneficial to adrenal function by effecting our ability to adapt to stress. Pomegranate, flax, chocolate, and green tea are all flavanoid-rich foods.

You may also consider taking a supplement for overal adrenal support that includes: 

• Pantothenic Acid
• Vitamin C
• Zinc
• Biotin
• Ginseng, panax ginseng
• Licorice, glycyrrhiza glabra
• Siberian Ginseng, eleutherococcus senticosus
• Ashwagandha, withania somnifera
• Rhodiola, rhodiola rosea
• Maca, lepidium meyenii
• Vitamin B Complex

 The diurnal cortisol curve is the changes in levels of the stress-senstive hormone cortisol in our bodies thoughout the day. [insert name of test here] 

Essentially, upon waking, our adrenal cortex releases the steroid hormone cortisol to give us a boost of energy to go about our day. Around noon, our cortisol levels begin to naturally decline. This level steadily decreases until late evening when our bodies switch into rest mode. Then cortisol production reaches it's lowest level at around midnight. The cycle then repeats daily.

This natural variation can be negatively impacted by many factors including stressors during the day, irregular sleeping patterns, shift work as opposed to a regular work schedule, genetic predisposition to a heightened stress response, and past traumatic events that heighten our sensitivity to stress.

Continued disruption of diurnal cortisol patterns can cause morning or daytime fatigue, difficulty waking up, insomnia, and other sleep disturbances.

In the long run, the side effects of prolonged high or low cortisol can lead to more serious conditions. For example, the weight gain that can be caused by overexposure to cortisol can also increase our risk of heart disease or diabetes. 

Is Your Diurnal Cortisol Off -Balance?

If your Lab Test Results show that your diurnal cortisol curve is imbalanced we suggest that your first take a look at your lifestyle and how you manage stress.

You may also consider these supplements:

 Seriphos 100c- Original Formula (Interplexus) - Proprietary Blend (Phosphorylated Serine/ Ethanolamine) 1000mg

Free Cortisone

Melatonin is a hormone produced in the pineal gland of the brain. It is the hormone that makes us feel sleepy and calm. It fluctuates throughout the day with the body’s natural circadian rhythm. 

It also functions as a powerful antioxidant, promoter of growth hormone production, and an immune system modulator.

The main metabolite of melatonin is 6-Sulfatoxymelatonin, or MT6. It has no specific effect of it’s own but it is excreted through urine and is a good indicator of the full production of melatonin. 

High levels of melatonin most often present as drowsiness, reduced core body temperature, fatigue, or headaches. 

Low levels of melatonin can present in a myriad of symptoms including:

• Depression
• Elevated cholesterol
• Sleep disruptions
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure
• Heart arrhythmias
• Sensitivity to stress
• Sleep that isn’t restful

Healthy levels of melatonin have been proven to lower women’s risk for breast cancer. They are also crucial to regular sleep habits and all of the health benefits that come along with that, like stress reduction, alertness, ability to concentrate, etc.

Ideally, the diurnal curve of melatonin runs inversely to the diurnal curve of cortisol, with melatonin peaking in the evening when cortisol is lowest and cortisol peaking in the early hours of the morning when melatonin is lowest.

[Add a chart of the 2 diurnal curves]

Your Lab Test Results will show your MT6 levels at key times of day that indicate your body’s natural rhythm of sleep. 

If your evening levels of melatonin are low, you may first consider some lifestyle changes. Most importantly cutting out screen time and bright lights in the evening time. This will help to signal to your body that it is time for rest.

Melatonin release is naturally triggered by darkness and the low angle of the sun in the evening leading to the relaxation and drop in core body temperature that tell our minds and bodies that it is time for sleep.

You may also consider looking at your relationship to caffeine and cutting down your intake of coffees and teas.

If your daytime levels of melatonin are high you may consider a similar but opposite strategy. It has been shown that taking in sunlight in the early hours of the morning helps to trigger the drop in melatonin and the rise in cortisol that is essential for stimulating wakefulness.

Also beginning your day with exercise to stimulate the body and raise your core body temperature can lower your daytime levels of melatonin.

Norepinephrine

Epinephrine

Iodine

Creatinine

ZRT NeuroAdvanced Panel has an available add-on called "Saliva Hormones" which evaluates the levels of these hormones: Estradiol, Progesterone, Testosterone, DHEA-S,  Cortisol (AM).  Check here in the coming weeks for suggested supplements.