
How Neurotransmitters Work

Dopamine, serotonin, epinephrine (also known as adrenaline), and endorphins are all neurotransmitters, chemical messengers that play crucial roles in various bodily functions. These neurotransmitters regulate mood, emotions, and physical responses, making them essential for everyday activities, thoughts, and feelings. In essence, they are vital components of our physiological and psychological well-being.
The medical staff, health coaches, therapists, medical nutritionists, and patient care coordinators at The Well for Health in Mooresville, NC, know that neurotransmitter function is key to your mental and physical health. Let’s explore how and why.
What are neurotransmitters?
The nervous system is a complex network of neurons known as nerve cells that coordinates and regulates all bodily functions. It plays a crucial role in directing everything from voluntary movements to involuntary processes, ensuring that the body operates effectively.
- Breathing
- Digestion
- Gut health
- Organ function
- Muscle movement
- Sleep function
- Stress reaction
- Emotional response
None of this is possible without neurotransmitters.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals from one nerve cell to its target cell, including glands, muscle cells, or other neurons. This communication occurs through a process known as neurotransmission, enabling nerve cells to send and receive information from various sources within the body.
This continuous exchange of signals forms a crucial feedback loop essential for maintaining optimal physical and mental function.
How do neurotransmitters work?
Neurons and their target cells do not directly connect; instead, a small gap filled with fluid, known as a synapse, exists between them. For a signal to propagate from a nerve cell to its target cell, it must traverse this synaptic space. This process is essential for transmitting information to and from the central nervous system, which includes the brain and spinal cord.
Neurotransmitters are chemicals that carry messages between nerve cells, helping to transmit signals throughout the body. Each nerve cell produces and stores thousands of these neurotransmitter molecules.
When a signal travels along a nerve cell, it triggers the release of neurotransmitters. These activated neurotransmitters cross the synapse, which is an area that is many thousands of times smaller than the width of a human hair, ensuring the continuation of the signal transmission.
3 common health issues impacted by neurotransmitters
There is much research about neurotransmitters and how they impact your mental health, but they affect many physical aspects as well.
Thyroid and neurotransmitters
The thyroid gland produces hormones that regulate metabolism, energy levels, and mood. An underactive thyroid (hypothyroidism) can lead to decreased neurotransmitter production, particularly serotonin, which is essential for regulating mood and anxiety. Conversely, an overactive thyroid (hyperthyroidism) may lead to an excess of excitatory neurotransmitters like norepinephrine, contributing to anxiety and irritability.
Adrenal glands and neurotransmitters
The adrenal glands release hormones such as cortisol, critical for the body’s stress response.
Chronic stress can lead to elevated cortisol levels, which may disrupt the balance of neurotransmitters. High cortisol can inhibit serotonin production and promote anxiety-related neurotransmitters.
The relationship between adrenal function and neurotransmitter balance emphasizes the need for stress management to support mental health.
Gut health and neurotransmitters
The gut-brain connection is a vital area of research. Recent studies have revealed that gut health significantly impacts neurotransmitter production. Approximately 90% of serotonin originates in the gut.
Issues like gut dysbiosis, leaky gut syndrome, or inflammatory bowel disease can hinder neurotransmitter synthesis and lead to mood disorders. A healthy gut microbiome supports the production of neurotransmitters through the fermentation of dietary fibers and the production of short-chain fatty acids.
Optimizing neurotransmitter function for better health
Research into the relationship between neurotransmitter function and mental health continues to evolve, but current findings provide a solid foundation for guiding effective treatments for various psychological and physical health conditions.
Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are commonly used to treat conditions such as depression and anxiety. These medications work by inhibiting the reabsorption of serotonin in the brain, which helps to enhance mood and alleviate symptoms associated with depression.
The functional medicine specialists at The Well for Health take a holistic approach to helping patients achieve mental and physical wellness. We work with you to find the perfect balance in nutrition, exercise, lifestyle, and medical treatment to treat chronic disorders such as obesity, hypertension, chronic fatigue, cognitive decline, hormonal imbalance, and more.
Contact The Well for Health today at 704-459-5296 or request a FREE 15-minute telephone consultation online.
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