Chromium 90% of diets deficient Anxiety, fatigue, glucose intolerance, adult-onset diabetes magnesium also check riboflavin SAMe S-adenosylmethionine It's a molecule that all living cells, including our own, produce constantly. -------------------------- if its antidepressant effects fade after a few weeks, it may be necessary to supplement 5-HTP at a different time of the day with a low dose of the complementary amino acid L-Tyrosine, to further raise the norepinephrine level2.5 Tryptophan on its own works best in depression cases where psychobiologic arousal is high, and serotonin production is inadequate to balance the effects of dopamine and norepinephrine - resulting in a anxious, agitated state. For more apathetic, vegetative depressive cases, tryptophan supplementation is more effective when combined with supplementation of tyrosine, a precursor to dopamine/norepinephrine. ---------------------- 5-HTP is able to pass the blood-brain barrier more easily than tryptophan,5 but to maximize its effectiveness it should not be taken along with protein food. one product manufacturer suggests taking it 45 minutes before or three hours after a protein meal. ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Under a low dosage (an individual optimal dosage) of SSRIs, the interneuron synapses or receptors in the brain's epinephrine (stress) neurons or sympathetic neurons (for exapmles, the orgasm circuits in T10-L2) get an optimal level of serotonin to suppress the misfiring of the nervous systems and the unnecessary conversion of dopamine/norepinephrine to epinephrine, without interfering the acetylcholine-serotonin, dopamine/norepinephrine-serotonin, or acetylcholine-dopamine-norepinephrine-serotonin interneuron functions. -------------------------------------------------------------------------- SSRIs (selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors) are the class of prescription drugs including PROZAC. SSRIs work by increasing the availability of serotonin in synapses (junctions between neurons) by blocking their reuptake. 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) works by increasing the cell’s output of serotonin. St. John’s Wort works like SSRIs in that it increases the availability of serotonin in synapses (junctions between neurons) by blocking their reuptake but also increases the availability of norepinephrine, which increases energy and alertness and dopamine, which increases the feeling of well-being. --------------------------------- DHEA has been called the "ultimate antioxidant" and it has been suggested that DHEA can block cancer during its early stages in animals. DHEA replacement therapy has been shown to reduce the rate of breast cancer by 73% in a study where rats where given a mammary cancer-inducing substance called DMBA. The breast cancer rate in control animals remained at 95% compared to 27% for those with DHEA supplementation. ------------------------------------ Dr.D'Adamo does not tend to recommend 5HTP for his type A or type B patients since there are studies suggesting that 5HTP increases cortisol levels. (1) Cortisol is an adrenal-derived stress hormone known to be produced in greater amounts under stress by individuals who are type A or type B. --------------- Pharmaceutical-grade SAMe comes in two forms, one called tosylate and a newer, more stable form called butanedisulfonate. Only Nature Made and GNC sell the new butanedisulfonate version, but several U.S. retailers import reliable tosylate products. And because SAMe is absorbed mainly through the intestine, it's best taken in "enteric coated" tablets that pass through the stomach intact. None of the products comes cheap. The price of a 400-mg dose ranges from $2.50 (Nature Made) up to $18.56 for an uncoated Natrol product called SAM sulfate. ------------- For example, whey may be able to reduce stress and lower cortisol and increase brain serotonin levels, improve liver function in those suffering from certain forms of hepatitis, reduce blood pressure, as well as other amazing recent discoveries, such as whey's possible effects on weight loss, which is the focus of this article. How whey achieves this effect is not fully understood, but research suggests it's due to whey's high glycomacropeptide and alpha-lactalbumin content, as well as its high solubility compared to other proteins, and perhaps it's high percentage of branch chain amino acids (BCAA's). ----------- The textbook description of anxiety neurosis exactly matches the symptoms of vitamin B3 (niacin) deficiency: hyperactivity, depression, fatigue, apprehension, headache, and insomnia. It has been shown in animals to work in the brain in ways similar to drugs such as benzodiazepines (Valium-type drugs) that are used to treat anxiety. One study found that niacinamide (not niacin) could help people get through withdrawal from benzodiazepines, which is a common problem. A reasonable amount of niacinamide to take for anxiety, according to some doctors, is up to 500mg four times per day. Niacinamide locks onto the same receptor sites in the brain as do tranquilizers such as Valium, and is a natural tranquilizer. The manufacturer of valium is also the worlds largest manufacturer of niacinamide. --------------- Ingredients per capsule of Cortiguard: Vitamin C 175 mg Bacopa (Bacopa monniera) 100 mg Pantothenic acid (D-calcium pantothenate) 75 mg Boerhaavia (20:1 extract boerhaavia diffusa) 50 mg Korean Ginseng (Panax ginseng) 25 mg Siberian Ginseng (Eleutherococcus senticosis) 25 mg Vitamin B6 (Pyridoxine HCl) 15 mg Thiamin (HCl) 12 mg Alpha lipoic Acid 3 mg So basically what I'm taking plus Bacopa monniera and Boerhaavia diffusa. Boerhaavia diffusa The alkaloid fraction of the root of Boerhaavia diffusa has a dramatic effect in buffering against elevation of plasma cortisol levels under stressful conditions. Subsequent to this buffering of cortisol, Boerhaavia alkaloids also prevent a drop in immune system performance. Indicating a bi-directional adaptogenic activity, these same plant alkaloids also act to reverse the depletion of adrenal cortisol associated with adrenal exhaustion. Since blood type A (and B) is most impacted by the tendency to over produce cortisol, this herb is tailor made for these blood types. Dr.D'Adamo does not tend to recommend 5HTP for his type A or type B patients since there are studies suggesting that 5HTP increases cortisol levels. (1) Cortisol is an adrenal-derived stress hormone known to be produced in greater amounts under stress by individuals who are type A or type B. For type A's and B's he recommends using Boerhaavia preparations such as those found in Cortiguard A This plant also appears to act to reverse the depletion of adrenal cortisol associated with adrenal exhaustion. -- Nutrients and Stress When you are under a great deal of physiological or mental/emotional stress, several vitamins are of particular importance. These include antioxidants such as vitamin C and Lipoic acid, B vitamins but especially vitamin B1, B5 and B6, and lastly, the nutrient phosphatidylserine. Vitamin C (ascorbic acid) Apparently, even dating back to anecdotal reports of Europeans interacting with the Native American Indians, it is reported that eating an animal's adrenal gland could reverse symptoms of scurvy. Not surprisingly, medical science has found that the adrenal glands are a place of extremely high body levels of vitamin C. and, under stress, your requirement for this vitamin goes up. Evidence also shows that vitamin C, in amounts greater than the RDA, is needed to optimally support the adrenal glands function and buffer against high cortisol when you are exposed to a lot of stress. In effect, a deficiency of this vitamin will raise cortisol levels and make it much more likely someone will remain in the "resistance" stage of the stress response. B Vitamins, (vitamins B1, B5, B6 and lipoic acid). While without question, an absolute deficiency in any of the B vitamins would be detrimental; several of these vitamins are critical for a healthy response to stress. Experimental and clinical results have shown thiamin (vitamin B1) to be an effective nutrient to protect the adrenal gland from functional exhaustion when undergoing stress. A combination of vitamin C (ascorbic acid), and vitamins B1 and B6 has been shown to improve the stress response and simultaneously normalizes the rhythmic activity of cortisol. Pantethine is the most physiologically active form of vitamin B5. Deficiency of this nutrient or its precursor, pantothenic acid, results in a decrease in adrenal function with the most noted symptom of deficiency being fatigue; while evidence indicates supplementation normalizes the adrenal glands capacity to respond to stress. Lipoic acid, primarily known as a superior antioxidant, has been shown to prevent the accumulation of stress hormones in heart tissue secondary to stress (very important for A's with their higher risk for heart disease). Lipoic acid also enhances the elimination of some stress hormones and can partially restore some of the immune suppression, which occur secondary to high cortisol levels. (PS) Phosphatidylserine, found in trace amounts in lecithin, is a useful supplement to help regulate the stress-induced activation of the HPA axis. It appears to act primarily to make an individual more sensitive to the cortisol stress response. Current evidence suggests that it tends to help prevent large increases in cortisol and helps to return cortisol to a more normal level after stress. ---------------- Holy Basil Extract Promotes Centered Calmness Holy basil (known as tulsi in ayurveda) is one of the primary botanicals used in India for reducing the negative effects of stress by lowering cortisol production in the adrenals. In vitro research shows the ursolic acid in holy basil inhibits COX-2, an inflammatory enzyme. As a powerful adaptogen, it helps maintain normal blood sugar levels when used as part of your diet, as well as promote focused clarity. ------------ I'd try the Cortiguard first, as it is very effective in lowering cortisol levels quickly. ---------- "Most of the touted benefits of DHEA can be explained in terms of its role as an inhibitor of the biological actions of corticosteroids, especially cortisol," Sears believes. Researchers such as Dr. William Regelson, an ardent proponent of DHEA supplementation, would probably agree. ----------------- Relora™ Natural Stress Management Mechanism of Action Relora is an exciting new natural anti-anxiety/stress relief ingredient to control stress-related eating and drinking that has the added value of being non-sedating with potential anti-depressant properties. In central nervous system receptor binding assays, the plant extracts in Relora bind to several important targets associated with anxiety. It does not bind to the benzodiazepine receptors that would cause sedation, yet has the relaxing qualities of the benzodiazepine class of drugs in a validated anxiolytic animal model. In addition, it normalizes hormone levels associated with stress-induced obesity and eating/drinking behavior. Relora can normalize cortisol and DHEA levels in stressed individuals, induce relaxation, and act as an aid in controlling weight and stress-related eating or drinking. ------------ Underline the importance of GABA in anxiety relief. Tyrosine Vitamin C is vital for the synthesis of epinephrine from the amino acid tyrosine. In summary then, your conviction of a link between vitamin C and cortisol, along with your other assumptions, is absolutely correct. Stress causes excess cortisol production, which depletes vitamin C. Vitamin C supplementation in turn reduces excess cortisol, which in turn ameliorates its destructive effects and helps to counteract the negative aspects of stress. magnesium, zinc, potassium Include pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) if you lack the enzymes to convert vitamin B6 to its active form Phosphatidylserine, found in trace amounts in lecithin, is a useful supplement to help regulate the stress-induced activation of the HPA axis look at norepinephrine as well. The concept that there is nothing the person can do about the stressor... post-traumatic stress disorder Astressin is a CRF receptor antagonist. CRF facilitates the anxiety response. GRK3—a G-protein-coupled-receptor kinase plays an important role in the regulation of CRF receptors by turning them off at a certain point after they have been stimulated. It has been established that exposure to severe stress can induce a long-term sensitization to anxiety-inducing stimuli. Therefore, a deficiency in GRK3 expression (caused by a different sequence of nucleotides that makes the promotor gene less capable of promoting transcription of the protein) may render brain CRF receptors incapable of being turned off when chronically exposed to high levels of CRF. This excessive degree of CRF receptor activation could contribute to the development of anxiety and depression. Neurontin and Gabitril (two anticonvulsant drugs) both increase the neurotransmitter GABA transynaptically, which is where benzodiazepines such as Klonopin and Ativan work against anxiety. ------------------ Neurological research has identified over 50 kinds of neurotransmitters. Scientists have found that several neurotransmitters are directly related to mental health problems. These specific neurotransmitters are Dopamine, Serotonin, Norepinephrine, and Gamma Aminobutyric Acid. A shortage or excess of these neurotransmitters are thought to generate psychiatric conditions related to anxiety, depression, ADHD, bipolar disorder, social anxiety and stress. Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that is similar to adrenaline. High levels of norepinephrine can cause hostile behavior. Norepinephrine along with dopamine and phenylethalimine create feelings of infatuation. If children undergo excessive amounts of stress, they can acquire a permanent deficiency in serotonin and high levels of norepinephrine which can lead to long-term, aggressive behavior. ------------ Clinical research to identify the mechanism of action in Valerian suggests that its sedative and anti-anxiety effects occur as a result of direct action on the GABA neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. It is believed that Valepotriates and the GABA phytochemical extracts from the root are responsible for this action. ----------- Individual ingredients in NRI formulas such as Clarocet, Amoryn and Welatonin have been detailed in over 200 Clinical studies to help balance key neurotransmitters like Serotonin, Norepinephrine, Dopamine and GABA --------------- ----------------- --------------- !!! The B vitamins are important for the nervous system. They have been found to stabilize the body's lactate levels, which are responsible for anxiety attacks. Vitamin B6 (pyridoxine) is particularly important. It is a known energizer that also exerts a calming effect. Vitamin B-1 (thiamine) helps reduce anxiety and has a calming effect on the nerves. Niacinamide (a form of Vitamin B-3) is important in the production of certain brain chemicals. In large doses, it has a calming effect. Include pyridoxal-5-phosphate (P-5-P) if you lack the enzymes to convert vitamin B6 to its active form. Calcium and magnesium are important to prevent nervous tension. They relax a tense and overwrought nervous system. Calcium is a natural tranquilizer. Magnesium helps relieve anxiety, tension, nervousness, muscular spasms, and ties. Take magnesium in combination with calcium. Take them before bed to improve sleep. Alcohol robs the body of magnesium, causing nervousness and irritability. Vitamin C is necessary for proper functioning of adrenal glands and brain chemistry. In large doses, it can have a powerful tranquilizing effect and is known to decrease anxiety. Take the variety with bioflavonoids. It is very important for dealing with stress. (Consult a physician before you start any mega vitamin therapy.) Potassium is essential for proper functioning of the adrenal glands. Low levels of selenium have been found in people with anxiety disorder. It is a powerful antioxidant that protects the heart. S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) is an important physiological agent involved in over 40 biochemical reactions in the body. Is a natural anti-depressant and has a calming effect. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) - This amino acid reportedly helps in anxiety. Vitamin E helps transport oxygen to brain cells and protect them from free radical damage. Zinc has a calming effect on the central nervous system. Recommended Daily Dosages Vitamin B complex, 50 mg one to three times daily P-5-P, 100 mg Extra vitamin B-1 (thiamine) - 50 mg 3 times daily, with meals. Vitamin B-6 (pyridoxine) - 50 mg 3 times daily. Niacinamide - 100 mg 3 times daily. Caution- Do not substitute niacin for niacinamide. Niacin can be toxic in such high doses. Vitamin C with Bioflavonoids - 5,000-10,000 mg daily, in divided doses. Vitamin E - 400 IU or as directed in the label. Use d-alpha-tocopherol form. Calcium - 2,000 mg daily Magnesium - 500-1,000 mg daily Potassium - 99 mg daily Selenium - 100-200 mcg daily Caution: If you are pregnant, do not exceed 40 mcg daily. Zinc - 50-80 mg daily. Do not exceed a total of 100 mg daily from all supplements. S-Adenosylmethionine (SAMe) - 400 mg twice daily. Caution: Do not use if you have manic-depressive disorder or take prescription anti-depressants. GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)- 750 milligrams three times a day after meals. ------------------ Hidden food allergies may be a contributing factor or cause. Nutrients such as calcium and magnesium, B-vitamins, niacinamide, B12 injections (especially if stomach acid production is insufficient), tryptophan with inositol and chromium, valerian root, and GABA can have a calming effect. Certain foods can worsen anxiety. Dairy products, chocolate, sugar, alcohol, wheat, salt, commercial salad dressings, ketchup (catsup), mustard, coffee, black tea, and red meat may worsen anxiety symptoms. High-nutrient foods such as vegetables, brown rice, whole grains, seeds and nuts, fruits, poultry, fish, olive oil, and flax seeds/oil can help relieve stress and prevent anxiety. If you feel anxious, jittery, depressed or fatigued after eating a particular food, don't eat it. ------ Pyroluria This condition is caused by an overproduction during hemoglobin synthesis of kryptopyrrole, which chemically combines with vitamin B6 and zinc, resulting in their excretion and a severe deficiency of both of these essential nutrients. Most pyroluric individuals never develop schizophrenia symptoms. ------------- Wernicke-Korsakoff syndrome stems from causes similar to those of beriberi, depletion of the body's stores of thiamine (vitamin B1) from many years of malnutrition due to alcoholism. Symptoms include anemia, anxiety, depression, and confusion. About 40% of those affected also have anemia as a result of folic acid deficiency. Weekly injections of thiamine and daily doses in capsule form can be used. Korsakoff's psychosis, a disorder stemming from destruction of nerve fibers connecting brain cells, is a serious neurological/psychiatric disorder seen in advanced alcoholism. It stems from the effects of the acetaldehyde that builds up in the liver and spills over into the bloodstream, where it creates free radicals that cause damage throughout the body. In the brain it can impair cellular communication by injuring the nerve fibers connecting cells. ---- The prescription drug Hydergine stimulates regrowth of damaged nerve fibers. The most effective form of Hydergine comes in tablets, which can be placed under the tongue for immediate absorption. Ask your doctor about Hydergine if you feel you need help in this area. ----- Clinical anxiety and panic attacks involve a key biochemical feature: Elevated blood lactic acid levels. Lactate is the final breakdown product of glucose metabolism, where there is a lack of oxygen (anaerobic metabolism). ----------- My next big breakthrough came with the discovery of negatively (charged) ionized (alkalized) "microwater" while searching on the Internet for a good substitute for a powerful, but expensive, antioxidant I was taking. In the beginning of May 2002, I set up a water ionizer next to my kitchen sink and started drinking loads and loads of the most delicious water I ever tasted in my life, thinking this was going to help stop the aging process and help me feel a little better. It seemed to do everything and more. I was fascinated by how this simple machine could turn mere tap water into seemingly endless amounts of the most useful, healing, powerful, free-radical deactivating and purifying fluid I ever drank, actually replacing some of the food and antioxidants I used to need and, therefore, reducing my weekly organic and health-food grocery bill by 50% or more. Most importantly, negatively-ionized water has actually reduced my anxiety quite significantly, to the point where I no longer even feel it! There is a scientific explaination for this: when filtered water is charged with the negative side of a platinum-coated electrode (cathode), its pH (power of hydrogen) is increased, usually from around a pH of 6.5 up to 9 or 10. Being "microwater" -- or water that clumps together in units of 5 molecules each instead of the usual 12 or so water molecules per cluster (as with regular non-ionized water) -- it can hydrate living tissue much more thoroughly, and dissolve and transport nutrients much more efficiently than any other form of water. It easily crosses the blood-brain barrier and acts as a buffer for metabolic by-products such as lactic acid which has been scientifically proven to be the most likely cause of common anxiety disorders. In other words, my brain was too acidic, and at first, the alkalinity naturally present in most raw foods helped to neutralize some of this acidity, creating some improvement. But this very alkaline, negatively ionized water, has REALLY helped. The ionized water combined with my 100% raw food diet, antioxidants, herbs, etc. all work together to turn my depression and anxiety into just pure bliss! All the physical symptoms, such as rapid and skipping heartbeats, etc. I used to have, have completely disappeared. ------ For Effexor XR, decrease by 37.5 mg every two weeks.