Depression and Amino Acids: The Natural Fight

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Depression is a serious issue. This mental disorder effects approximately 9.9 million people in the USA today, according to psychiatric studies. These particular amino acids are integral in the production of mood enhancing neurotransmitters.

We have known for since 1974, from the study conducted by Prange AJ et al, that low levels of specific neurotransmitters (NTs) are linked with depression. These NTs are norepinephrine, serotonin, and dopamine. Deficiencies in these NTs play a significant role in a number of disorders. A number of the disorders that can arise include:

·         Depression

·         Anxiety

·         Panic attacks

·         Insomnia

·         Irritable bowel

·         Hormone dysfunction

·         Eating disorders

·         Fibromyalgia

·         Obsessions

·         Compulsions

·         Adrenal dysfunction

·         Chronic pain

·         Migraine headaches

·         Early death

That is quite a list. Yes, it is also very dramatic. Depression is a deeply damaging, crippling disease. A disease that currently fuels an $14.5 billion-dollar research and treatment industry. Experts agree that the costs will balloon to $16.8 billion by 2020 and $18.3 billion by 2025. These costs are not likely to be deferred to any philanthropic organization. Bill and Melinda Gates are not are not about to fork over a few billions to defray the medical morass in which we find ourselves. No, this sad news must be faced directly. Or, perhaps, nutritionally. If we truly are what we eat, then what are the alternatives?

Some of these NTs are what is known as catecholamines. This classification of NT indicates that the compound is released during times of stress. Think ‘fight or flight,” high stress at work or home, strenuous exercise. Just about most any activity or event which will put your system into a high-alert status is one in which your system will produce these catecholamines, these NTs. Those NTs are:

·         Dopamine

·         Epinephrine

·         Norepinephrine

The other amino acids which multiple studies have indicated as capable in fighting depression are:

·         L-Arginine

·         L-Citrulline

·         L-Ornithine

·         L-Tyrosine

·         GABA (Gama-Aminobutyric Acid)

·         Glutamate

·         L-Theanine

·         L-Typtophan

·         Serotonin (NOTE: This is not an amino acid, but it has been listed as a separate compound that is supplemented along with amino acids

This is it. 12 amino acids that have been shown in several international studies to improve mood, motivation, shore up determination, and assist in a multitude of mental functions for which people seek medical help. Let’s go over these compounds to learn about how they help our mental functions.

Neurotransmitters are, in short, how our brain cells and nerves cells communicate. NTs are released into the gaps between the nerve endings. These chemicals are then absorbed by the receptors on other nerve endings to complete the communication. These nerve endings, by the way, are called dendrites. Dendrites are coated with a protective material called myelin. This sheathing protects nerves, gray matter – like the brain – from our immune system.

What are these aminos? Where or how can we get them into our diet regularly? More to the point, what do each of these compounds do? Scientists have identified eight amino acids and one specific neurotransmitter, all of which we can safely supplement or find in our regular diets (dietary sources are ALWAYS preferable).

Let’s take a quick look at what those eight aminos and one NT are. I hope that the chart below will help. The intent is that you can print it out and use it as a reference.

                                                                                

	Function	Side Effects	Source
L-Arginine	Changed into nitric oxide (NO). NO improves blood circulation by relaxing blood vessels.	Side effects may include; low blood pressure, bloating, diarrhea	Turkey, Chicken, Pork Loin, Pumpkin Seeds, Peanuts, Dairy
L-Citruline	Gets converted into L-Arginine. Made by the body. This may be a better supplemental amino since it gets metabolized into Arginine.	No side effects have been reported, but, if you take nitrates for heart disease, talk to your doctor first.	Dark Chocolate, Walnuts, Spinach, Watermelon, Citrus
L-Ornithine	Primary role is in the urea cycle. It helps to clean out and support the health of the liver. It also aids in healing process and sleep.	None	This is made by the body, it is a non-essential amino acid. During times of stress supplementation can help.
L-Tyrosine	Used in making: Dopamine, Adrenaline and Noradrenaline, Thyroid hormones, and melanin.  It may improve mental functions during times of increased stress according to studies.	None	This is made by the body, it is a non-essential amino acid. Produced from dairy products. The word "tyros" is Greek for cheese.
GABA	A neurotransmitter which sends and regulates chemical messages in the brain and nervous system. Lowers anxiety and aids the sleep process.	Side effects may include; Upset stomach, headache, sleepiness, muscle weakness	Fermented foods and foods high in flavanoids (berries, citrus fruits, apples, pears, tea, wine)
Glutamate	Excitatory neurotransmitter that is important to memory, a GABA precursor, in foods improves gut function, improves both appetite and satiety, boosts immunity, cell longevity, bone health, and muscle function	In excessive amounts, it has been linked to some depressive disorders, cancer issues, migraines. The WHO Organization has concluded that glutamate is safe as a food additive.	Non-essential and from food sources. It is found in high protein foods like meat, chicken eggs, tomatoes, and cheese
L-Theanine	Reduces anxiety and stress, increases/improves brain function, improves cognitive function of caffeine on the brain, protects circulatory system, improves stress resistance, may reduce some symptoms of depression	No side effects of its own; however, it can lower blood pressure. If you are taking blood pressure medicine, talk to your physician first and be vigilant.	Tea leaves, Green Tea, bananas, chicken, brown rice, potatoes
L-Tryptophan	Precursor for niacin, melatonin, serotonin. Good for overall mood and sleep.	Side effects may include; belching and gas, dizziness, drowsiness, and dry mouth.	Pumpkin seeds, soybeans, cheeses, lamb, beef, pork, chicken, turkey, tuna, eggs
Serotonin	Plays significant role in digestion, blood clotting, bone density, sexual function, and mood. Low serotonin levels have been identified in many people with depression.	Side effects may include; Drowsiness, nausea, dry mouth, nervousness, and dizziness	Eggs, cheese, pineapple, tofu, salmon, turkey