Tag: Neurotransmitters

In the human body, B6 phosphate, also known as pyridoxal 5'-phosphate (PLP), acts as an indispensable coenzyme for over 140 different enzyme reactions. This active form of vitamin B6 is essential for numerous physiological functions, including the metabolism of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats.

Aspartate, known interchangeably with aspartic acid, is a non-essential amino acid, meaning the human body can produce it on its own. This molecule is critical for several fundamental physiological processes, from generating cellular energy to regulating hormones, making aspartate good for maintaining overall health.

An estimated 90% of the body's serotonin is produced in the gut. This crucial neurotransmitter, often called the 'happy chemical', influences mood, sleep, and appetite. Determining what's the best source of serotonin for your brain involves a multi-faceted approach, as it isn't something you can ingest directly, but rather something your body synthesizes.

Despite being two of the most researched and popular natural supplements for cognitive enhancement, bacopa and ginkgo are fundamentally different herbs that function in unique ways. While both are often associated with memory and brain health, they originate from different parts of the world and have distinct mechanisms of action that cater to different needs.

According to researchers at Stanford Medicine, the ketogenic diet may help stabilize the brain by providing an alternative fuel source for those with energy dysfunction. This metabolic shift, known as ketosis, significantly alters brain chemistry and energy usage, raising important questions about what the keto diet does to your brain.

In the human brain, 80% of the glutamate is recycled from glutamine by astrocytes. This process, the glutamate–glutamine cycle, is essential for maintaining the balance of the central nervous system's most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter. Understanding how to get glutamate from glutamine is key to comprehending this vital metabolic partnership between brain cells.

While your kidneys can produce inositol, many B-complex supplements still include this compound to offer a comprehensive range of cellular and metabolic support. This practice stems from its historical classification as Vitamin B8, a time before its non-essential status was fully understood.

L-theanine is a unique, water-soluble amino acid found predominantly in tea plants, but unlike the 20 standard proteinogenic amino acids, it is not used to synthesize protein. Its distinct biochemical role is tied to promoting relaxation and improving cognitive function, separate from the body's primary protein-building activities.

The enzyme glutamate decarboxylase (GAD) converts the excitatory neurotransmitter glutamate into the calming neurotransmitter GABA, a process crucial for balanced brain function. Because GAD relies on specific nutrients to function efficiently, certain foods increase GAD activity by supplying essential cofactors and precursors, helping to promote a sense of calm.

According to the Amen Clinics, Brain Type 8 is the second most common brain type, affecting millions of individuals and manifesting as impulsivity, overfocus, sadness, and anxiety. Understanding what supplements are good for brain type 8 can help address the underlying neurochemical imbalances to support overall mental well-being and emotional stability.