Neurotransmitter Testing

Neurotransmitter testing can identify imbalances which are more common than you would think – around 86% of Americans have less than optimal levels. They affect how your brains works, how you feel, and your emotions. Neurotransmitters have a wide range of functions in the brain and other parts of the body. Symptoms such as depression and anxiety are among some of the more common reasons for visiting health care providers.

However, it’s rare (at this moment in time) in a standard practice model, that anyone would do neurotransmitter testing. Many patients aren’t aware of this because very few health care practitioners have experience or education in this area. Instead, it’s common to overlook physiological causes and just prescribe a medication. That’s what many health care providers are trained to do. While medications can obviously be needed in some cases, neurotransmitter testing is often overlooked. Neurotransmitter testing identifies imbalances so that we can work towards discovering the potential causes.

Neurotransmitter testing is the first step in finding the cause so that you can start feeling your best. With a holistic approach, all factors are considered for why you may have a particular condition.

Outside the Brain

In other places outside the brain, inflammation, free radicals, gluten sensitivities, gut issues, or metal toxicities, can all affect the brain. It’s important to consider all of these factors. Some neurotransmitters are produced outside the brain, so important to consider looking at the whole picture. Many systems of the body are integrated and work together.

Neurotransmitters We Can Test

Serotonin – affects mood, happiness, positive emotions, memory, learning, sleep, digestion, appetite, bone health. Produced in the gut, and brain.
Glutamate – excitatory neurotransmitter, adrenaline release, stimulating effect.
GABA – inhibitory with calming, relaxing effects, lowers blood pressure, modulates inflammation, improves sleep. Produced in the brain and beta cells of the pancreas.
Glycine – precursor for glutathione, antioxidant, modulates inflammation, increases serotonin, improves liver function and detox, improves sleep.
Dopamine – affects motivation, pleasure, satisfaction, concentration, learning, mood, pain processing. Produced in adrenal glands and brain.
Histamine – promotes wakefulness, and regulates sleep. It is a signaling molecule in the gut, skin, and immune system.
Epinephrine – sympathetic fight or flight systems, increased focus. Produced in the adrenal glands and the brain.
Norepinephrine – involved in fight or flight response, affects blood vessels and blood pressure.

Symptoms of Neurotransmitter Imbalance

Depression, anxiety, mood disorders, fatigue, adrenal dysfunction, dependencies or addictions, compulsive behaviors, lack of focus, poor sleep, decrease drive or energy, decreased libido, sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, irritability.