Lenstapes Med

Category: Health blog

  • Down Syndrome

    Down Syndrome

    Introduction

    A lot of people, especially pregnant women, may be curious about a number of aspects of an unborn child’s growth and health. One disease that may have drawn one’s attention is Down syndrome. Down syndrome will be explained clearly in this article, covering its definition, causes, types, clinical manifestations, available treatments, and information on its prevention.

    What is Down Syndrome

    Down syndrome, also known as trisomy 21, is a congenital abnormality characterised by the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. Chromosomes are tiny “packages” in the body that contain genes, which determine how a baby’s body forms and functions as it develops in the womb and after birth. Typically, individuals are born with 46 chromosomes, but people with Down syndrome have an additional copy of chromosome 21, resulting in a total of 47 chromosomes Humans usually have 23 pairs of chromosomes, but those with Down syndrome have three copies of chromosome 21, which has an impact on how they develop physically and mentally.

    People with Down syndrome usually have an IQ (a measure of intelligence) in the mildly-to-moderately low range and are slower to speak than other children.

    Causes and Risk Factors

    The primary cause of Down syndrome is the presence of an extra copy of chromosome 21. This additional genetic material occurs due to an error in cell division during the early development of the baby. The specific reason for this error is not fully understood, but it is not related to anything the parents did or didn’t do before or during pregnancy.
    Down syndrome can affect anyone, regardless of their racial, cultural, or economic background.
    The mother’s age is one factor that raises the chance of having a baby with Down syndrome. Women who are 35 years of age or older are more likely to experience a Down syndrome-affected pregnancy compared to women who become pregnant at a younger age.

    Types of Down Syndrome

    There are three main types of Down syndrome:

    1. Trisomy 21 (nondisjunction): This is the most common type, accounting for about 95% of Down syndrome cases. With trisomy 21, each cell in the body has three separate copies of chromosome 21.
    2. Translocation: In this type, a part of chromosome 21 attaches to another chromosome, usually chromosome 14. The total number of chromosomes remains 46, but the extra piece of chromosome 21 can still cause the characteristics of Down syndrome.
    3. Mosaic Down syndrome: In mosaic Down syndrome, only some cells have an extra copy of chromosome 21. This type accounts for a small percentage of cases, and individuals may have milder symptoms.

    Clinical Signs and Symptoms

    • Different mental and physical characteristics can result from having Down syndrome.
    • Upward-slanting eyes
    • A small nose, a small mouth with a protruding tongue
    • A single line (crease) across the palm
    • A flattened face, especially the bridge of the nose
    • A short neck
    • Small ears
    • Tiny white spots on the iris (coloured part) of the eye
    • Small hands and feet
    • Small pinky fingers that sometimes curve towards the thumb
    • Poor muscle tone or loose joints
    • Shorter in height

    Physical, cognitive, and social development are frequently delayed in people with Down syndrome. The severity of these traits can vary from person to person with Down syndrome, so it’s important to keep this in mind.

    Diagnosis

    Amniocentesis
    Ultrasound

    During pregnancy, there are two types of tests to check for Down syndrome: screening tests and diagnostic tests. Screening tests give an idea of the chance of having Down syndrome but don’t provide a definite diagnosis. They are safer for the mother and the baby. Diagnostic tests can give a more definite answer about whether the baby has Down syndrome, but they carry more risks. Neither test can tell how Down syndrome will affect the baby.

    1. Screening tests: These usually involve a blood test and an ultrasound. The blood test measures substances in the mother’s blood, while the ultrasound creates an image of the baby. The ultrasound checks for extra fluid behind the baby’s neck, which could indicate a genetic problem. These tests help estimate the baby’s risk of Down syndrome. Sometimes, the screening tests give abnormal results even when the baby is healthy, or they can miss a problem that does exist.
    2. Diagnostic tests are done if the screening test shows a positive result. They confirm whether the baby has Down syndrome. The diagnostic tests include chorionic villus sampling (CVS), which examines material from the placenta; amniocentesis, which examines the amniotic fluid; and percutaneous umbilical blood sampling (PUBS), which examines blood from the umbilical cord. These tests look for changes in the chromosomes that indicate Down syndrome.

    Treatment Options

    Down syndrome is a chronic illness. Early intervention services can frequently help babies and young children with Down syndrome develop their physical and intellectual capacities. The majority of these services are geared towards promoting the full development of children with Down syndrome. These services include speech, occupational, and physical therapy. Children with Down syndrome may require additional assistance or attention in school.

  • Understanding Menstruation: A Comprehensive Guide

    Understanding Menstruation: A Comprehensive Guide

    Menstrual period health is a critical aspect of every woman’s reproductive journey. It is a natural and vital part of the female reproductive cycle. Each month, the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. If no pregnancy occurs, the uterus sheds its lining, resulting in menstrual bleeding. This cycle begins from puberty and continues until menopause and is often seen as a barometer of overall health.

    What is Menstruation?

    Menstruation is the monthly release of blood and tissue from the uterus through the vagina. Hormones control this process, and it happens in cycles. The first day of bleeding marks the beginning of a new menstrual cycle, which typically lasts between 21 and 38 days. However, the length can vary among individuals and at different life stages.

    The Phases of the Menstrual Cycle

    The menstrual cycle consists of four main phases: menstruation, the follicular phase, ovulation, and the luteal phase.

    1. Menstruation: The menstrual period begins when the egg released in the previous cycle is not fertilized. The uterus sheds its lining, exiting the body through the vagina. This process often includes blood clots when on period, which may be normal or a sign of underlying issues.
    2. The Follicular Phase: This phase starts on the first day of menstruation and ends with ovulation. The body begins to prepare another egg for ovulation.
    3. Ovulation: This is the release of a mature egg from the ovary. It usually happens about two weeks before the start of the next period.
    4. The Luteal Phase: After ovulation, the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. If the egg isn’t fertilised, the cycle repeats.
    The menstrual cycle

    Common Symptoms and Menstrual Problems

    Many experience symptoms like cramps, fatigue, bloating, or mood changes during their menstrual period. These symptoms, often called PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome), can start before bleeding begins.

    However, some women face more severe challenges, including abnormal periods, heavy flow, or menstrual period with blood clots. Large or frequent clots and period issues may be caused by blood clotting menstruation disorders or hormonal imbalances. Explore more on symptoms at YourPeriod.ca.

    Menstruation clots can signal conditions like fibroids, thyroid issues, or reproductive system disorders. Inconsistent or missed periods could also indicate irregular cycles that need medical attention.

    When to Seek Medical Advice

    While menstruation is a natural process, it’s crucial to monitor your menstrual health and seek medical advice if you notice any unusual changes. These could include periods that last more than a week, extremely heavy bleeding, severe pain, periods that stop suddenly for more than 90 days (and you’re not pregnant), or periods that become irregular after having been regular.
    Understanding menstruation and its impact on your body is an essential part of women’s health. It’s more than just a monthly occurrence; it’s a barometer of your overall health and well-being.

    In such cases, consult a healthcare professional. You can also refer to this CDC menstrual hygiene guide.Doctors may recommend a contraceptive to regulate periods, especially for those experiencing cycle irregularities or hormone-related concerns.

    Your menstrual period is more than a monthly occurrenceit’s a key indicator of your health. Being aware of changes in your cycle, symptoms like menstruation clots, and knowing when to seek help is essential. Understanding your body empowers you to take control of your health and well-being.

  • Cleft Palate: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

    Cleft Palate: Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Options

    A cleft palate is a congenital abnormality or birth defect that affects the roof of the mouth. It occurs when the two sides of the palate do not fuse together during foetal development, leaving an opening or gap in the middle. A cleft palate can affect a child’s appearance, speech, feeding, and hearing.

    Although the exact cause of cleft palate is unknown, genetic and environmental factors may be involved. Some possible risk factors include family history, maternal smoking, alcohol consumption, certain medications, and infections during pregnancy.

    Clinical features

    The clinical features of a cleft palate vary depending on the size and location of the opening. Some common signs include:

    • Difficulty feeding and swallowing
    • Nasal speech and frequent ear infections
    • Dental problems and malocclusion
    • Facial asymmetry and low self-esteem

    Treatment options

    The treatment of cleft palate involves a multidisciplinary team of specialists, such as plastic surgeons, speech therapists, dentists, and audiologists. The main goal of treatment is to close the gap in the palate and improve the function and appearance of the mouth. The treatment options include:

    1. Surgery: This is usually done between 6 and 12 months of age to repair the cleft palate and restore normal anatomy. The surgery may involve several stages and require additional procedures later in life to correct any residual problems.
    2. Speech therapy: This helps to improve the speech and language skills of children with cleft palate. It may start before surgery and continue throughout childhood and adolescence.
    3. Dental care: This involves regular visits to the dentist to monitor the growth and development of the teeth and jaws. Children with cleft palate may need braces, implants or other dental devices to correct their bite and alignment.
    4. Hearing tests: This helps to detect any hearing loss or ear infections that may result from cleft palate. Children with cleft palate may need tubes inserted in their ears to drain fluid and prevent infection.
    cleft palate
    Image credit: Stock photos

    Cleft palate is a common and treatable condition that can be managed with proper care and support. Children with cleft palates can lead normal and healthy lives with good outcomes.

  • The Power of Gratitude: A Pathway to Health and Happiness

    The Power of Gratitude: A Pathway to Health and Happiness

    Gratitude, an often overlooked aspect of our daily lives, carries an extraordinary power that can transform our health, relationships, and overall quality of life. This article delves into the science-backed benefits of gratitude and offers practical ways to incorporate it into our daily routines.

    The Transformative Power of Gratitude

    In 2022, Ama Adowaa, a high school teacher found her world engulfed in flames. She lost her husband to cancer, her father to heart attack, and her mother was diagnosed with cancer. Amidst the turmoil, she discovered solace in the practice of gratitude. She began to jot down simple moments of joy, appreciation and fulfillment each day such as having conversations with her mom, taking her neighbour’s daughter through her assignment and saying thank you to that kid that gave a hand carrying her luggage. This daily practice of gratitude, she found, helped her navigate through the grief.

    Two decades ago, psychologist Robert A. Emmons embarked on a landmark study to explore the benefits of gratitude. His findings suggested that gratitude could significantly improve psychological well-being. This revelation sparked a wave of research that has since established gratitude as a powerful tool for enhancing emotional health, interpersonal relationships, and even physical health.

    showing gratitude

    Understanding Gratitude

    Gratitude is a positive emotion that emerges when we acknowledge the goodness in our lives and recognize that the sources of this goodness are often outside ourselves. It could be as simple as feeling grateful when someone shows kindness towards us. However, merely feeling gratitude is not enough. To reap the full benefits of this powerful emotion, it is equally important to express it.

    The Benefits of Gratitude

    Numerous studies have shown that expressing gratitude can provide significant mental health benefits. It can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, increase self-esteem, and improve satisfaction with daily life. Gratitude also enhances our relationships. Expressing gratitude to acquaintances, co-workers, friends, or romantic partners can offer a relationship “boost” and help strengthen our bonds.

    Moreover, the benefits of gratitude extend beyond the individual expressing it. Observing an act of gratitude can cause an observer to feel more warmth and affinity toward the individuals involved. Some studies have even associated gratitude with lower blood pressure and higher levels of heart rate variability, markers of well-being.

    showing gratitude

    Incorporating Gratitude into Daily Life

    While there is no prescribed frequency or method for practicing gratitude, many experts believe that a small dose of gratitude, once a day, is ideal. To develop a long-lasting gratitude habit, try linking your gratitude practice to an already ingrained routine. For instance, you could think about what you’re grateful for when you first turn on your computer at work.

    Being specific in your expressions of gratitude can also deepen your experience. Instead of simply saying “Thank you!”, try expressing your gratitude in more detail. For example, “I am grateful that you took the reins and handled all the kitchen duties tonight. I love how we take turns to give one another a break.”

    Writing down what you’re grateful for can be particularly beneficial. The act of writing slows down our thinking process and allows us to ponder more deliberately. Plus, it provides a permanent record of our blessings, which we can return to in the future to recall what we were grateful for.

    showing gratitude

    Conclusion

    Gratitude is a powerful emotion that can bring about significant improvements in our mental and physical health, relationships, and overall quality of life. By making a conscious effort to recognize and express gratitude daily, we can harness its transformative power and pave the way for a happier, healthier life.

  • Congenital Abnormalities: What You Need to Know

    Congenital Abnormalities: What You Need to Know

    You may have heard the term “congenital abnormalities” or “birth defects” and be wondering what they are and what causes them. In this article, we will explain these conditions in simple language to help you understand them better.

    Definition

    Congenital abnormalities are deformities that occur during the development of the baby and can affect various parts of the body. They are also known as birth defects or congenital malformations. These conditions can range from mild to severe and can be identified before or after birth.

    Causes/Risk factors

    The causes of congenital abnormalities are not fully understood, but they can result from a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Some of these factors include:

    • Inherited genetic mutations or chromosomal abnormalities
    • Exposure to harmful substances, such as alcohol, drugs, or chemicals
    • Maternal infections during pregnancy
    • Maternal chronic diseases, such as diabetes

    Types

    There are several types of congenital abnormalities, and they can affect any part of the body. Here are some of the most common types:

    • Structural abnormalities: These are physical defects that affect the structure of the body, such as cleft lip and palate, heart defects, and neural tube defects.
    • Functional abnormalities: These are defects that affect how the body functions, such as hearing or vision loss.
    • Metabolic abnormalities: These are abnormalities that affect the body’s metabolism, such as phenylketonuria (PKU).
    • Chromosomal abnormalities: These are abnormalities that occur when there is a problem with the chromosomes, such as Down syndrome.

    Clinical Manifestations

    The clinical manifestations of congenital abnormalities can vary depending on the type and severity of the condition. Some abnormalities may be visible at birth, while others may not be apparent until later in life. Common signs and symptoms include:

    • Abnormalities in body structure or shape
    • Delayed development or growth
    • Intellectual disability
    • Difficulty with movement or coordination
    • Breathing problems
    • Heart problems
    • Digestive problems
    • Hearing or vision problems

    Treatment options

    The treatment options for congenital abnormalities depend on the type and severity of the abnormality. Some treatment options include:

    • Surgery: Some physical deformities, such as cleft lip or clubfoot, can be corrected with surgery.
    • Medication: Some metabolic abnormalities, such as PKU, can be treated with medication.
    • Therapies: Some functional abnormalities, such as hearing loss, can be treated with therapies such as hearing aids or cochlear implants.
    • Supportive care: Many congenital abnormalities require ongoing supportive care, such as physical therapy or occupational therapy.

    Education on Prevention

    While not all congenital abnormalities can be prevented, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of having a baby with a birth defect. Some things you can do include:

    • Getting early and regular prenatal care
    • Avoiding alcohol, drugs, cigarettes, or any tobacco-containing substance during pregnancy
    • Managing chronic conditions, such as diabetes, before and during pregnancy
    • Taking folic acid supplements before and during pregnancy
    • Avoiding exposure to harmful chemicals and radiation.

     

    By adopting these preventative measures, the rate of congenital abnormalities can be significantly reduced, resulting in healthier pregnancies and healthier babies.

  • Community Health Workers in Addressing Health Disparities

    Community Health Workers in Addressing Health Disparities

    Introduction

    Health disparities exist when certain groups of people have poorer health outcomes than others. These are often linked to social determinants of health, such as poverty, limited access to healthcare services, and lack of education.

    A community health worker is a professional who has been trained to provide basic health education, therapy, and other necessary support to members of a particular community. CHWs are well-equipped to address these health disparities because they work closely with their communities and understand the unique social, cultural, and economic factors that influence health.

    Roles of the community health worker

    1. Health education and promotion

    They educate the community about healthy lifestyle behaviours, disease prevention and self-care practices.

    community nurses health education

     

    2.  Support and therapy to individuals

    CHWs provide support and counselling to persons with chronic conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, asthma, and HIV/AIDS. CHWs help individuals manage their conditions and prevent further complications that can lead to hospitalization and disability.

    health promotion

     

    3. Aid access to healthcare services

    CHWs, as part of their roles, help individuals explore the healthcare system, schedule appointments, and connect with healthcare providers.

     

    4. Intermediary between the healthcare providers and the community

     Certain individuals who have special needs are mostly denied access to healthcare facilities. As a result, CHWs ensure that such patients receive the attention and care they require. 

     

    5. Tackle the social determinants and causes of health disparities

    The CHWs assist the community in getting access to services and resources such as food, secured housing, adequate water supply, and transportation.

    CHWs handle the root factors responsible for health disparities by advocating for policies and programs that would eradicate such discrimination, such that there would be an improvement in health equity at the various healthcare facilities.  

     

    Conclusion

    Community health workers play an essential role in resolving health disparities. By working hand-in-hand with the communities, CHWs provide education, counselling, and support to improve quality healthcare outcomes. They also ensure easy access to healthcare services and confront the social determinants of health that result in various health disparities. As healthcare systems continue improving, CHWs will remain an important part of the healthcare workforce.

  • 6 Ways to Improve your Mental Health

    6 Ways to Improve your Mental Health

    Introduction

    Mental health is the general psychological well-being of an individual. It includes our emotional, social, and psychological functioning and it affects how we think, feel, and act. Also, it influences how we respond to stress, interact with others, and make good decisions. Maintaining good mental health can prevent or reduce the severity of mental health conditions such as anxiety, and depression.

    Below are some ways for maintaining optimum mental health.

     

     

     

    1. Eat healthy foods

    fruits_and_leafy_vegetables_on_a_white_plate lenstapes med

    A balanced diet can help with mental health by giving the body the nutrition it requires to function properly. Certain nutrients, including omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B and D, may benefit mental health, according to some research.

    Your diet should contain a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Reduce the amount of processed and sugary meals you eat, take in a lot of water, and avoid skipping meals, particularly breakfast. In order to receive individualised nutrition advice, consider speaking with a certified dietitian.

     

     

    2. Exercise regularly

    regular exercise lenstapes med

    Exercise on a regular basis has been demonstrated to increase mood, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost self-esteem. Additionally, it helps improve sleep quality and energy levels. Additionally, it helps enhance the quality of sleep and energy levels.

    Find an activity you enjoy, like cycling, swimming, walking, or jogging.  Establish a goal, such as aiming to work out every week for a certain amount of hours or days. Establish a strategy like finding a workout partner or scheduling your activity at the same time every day. Begin slowly and build up the duration and intensity of your workouts.

    To get direction and inspiration, think about speaking with a personal trainer or fitness professional.

     

     

    3. Get enough sleep

    good sleep lenstapes med

    Getting enough sleep can help manage the symptoms of pre-existing illnesses and lower the risk of developing mental health conditions.

    Create a regular sleeping pattern by going to bed and waking up at the same time each day. Establish a calming bedtime routine that includes activities like reading or taking a warm bath. Ensure that your sleeping environment is relaxing, with a comfortable bed and pillows, a dark, quiet room, and an appropriate temperature. Avoid watching screens (such as phones, TVs, and computers) at least an hour before bedtime since the blue light they emit can interfere with sleep. Avoid consuming alcohol and caffeine prior to bedtime.

     

     

    4. Establish healthy connections with family and friends

    family lenstapes med

    Social support can enhance feelings of self-worth, foster a sense of belonging, and aid in stress management.

    Schedule time to spend with those who matter to you, whether it is through frequent phone or video chats, in-person visits, or both.

    Talk to your loved ones honestly and openly, and pay attention to what they have to say.

     

     

    5. Talk about your feelings with people you trust

    mental health lenstapes med

    Sharing your emotions with a trusted friend or family member can improve your relationships and make you feel less isolated.

     

    Find a friend, family member, therapist, or someone else with whom you feel comfortable talking. Pick a time and location where you and the person you’re speaking with feel safe and private. Think about keeping a diary to record your ideas and emotions.

     

     

    6. Seek professional help when the need arises

    mental health

    It could be time to get professional assistance if you’ve tried self-care techniques like eating healthily, exercising, and talking to loved ones but are still having problems with your mental health. Feeling overburdened, having trouble functioning, noticing a big shift in your attitude or behaviour, or having thoughts of harming yourself are a few indications that you might need further support.

    Consider joining a support group or online community if you’re having problems finding someone to talk to.

     

     

    Conclusion

    In conclusion, mental health is important in the same way that physical health is. It is essential to take care of our mental health and get assistance when required. Destigmatizing mental health problems and fostering an environment in which people may ask for assistance without being judged are equally important. We can improve our general quality of life and live happier, healthier lives by giving our mental health the attention it deserves.

     

     

    Watch video

    mental health matters lenstapes med

    Connect with the author on LinkedIn: Isaac Debra Agyapong

     

  • Heart attack versus Cardiac arrest

    Heart attack versus Cardiac arrest

    Is there a difference between heart attack and cardiac arrest?

    People are frequently puzzled by these two terms because they are sometimes used interchangeably. A heart attack, however, is not the same as cardiac arrest. Yes, they are different. A heart attack is a circulation problem while cardiac arrest is an electrical problem! 

    Heart attack.

    A heart attack is a life-threatening medical emergency which occurs when an area of the heart muscle isn’t getting enough blood as a result of a blocked artery. The heart cells supplied by that artery begin to die if the artery isn’t reopened to restore blood flow. The heart muscle suffers more damage the longer it goes without treatment to restore blood flow. A heart attack is also known as myocardial infarction, or MI.  

    Symptoms include:

    • Chest pain – a feeling of pressure, heaviness, tightness or squeezing across your chest.
    • Pain in other parts of the body – it can feel as if the pain is spreading from your chest to your arms (usually the left arm, but it can affect both arms), jaw, neck, back and tummy.
    • Difficulty in breathing.
    • Sweating.
    • Nausea.
    • Feeling lightheaded or dizzy.
    Image credit: istock photos

    Cardiac arrest.

    Cardiac arrest, on the other hand, is most typically caused by an electrical issue that causes the heart to stop beating suddenly and unexpectedly. An electrical misfire causes the heart’s lower chambers (ventricles) to flutter or quiver, something known as ventricular fibrillation (v-fib). During cardiac arrest, a person collapses or faints unexpectedly, ceases breathing properly, and is unable to be roused.

    Other symptoms can include:

    • Irregular, odd gasping or choking sounds (known as agonal breathing).
    • Twitching muscles.

    Because cardiac arrest and coronary artery disease (the fundamental cause of heart attacks) are so closely linked, the underlying risks are basically the same.

    These include:

    • Smoking
    • Diabetes
    • High cholesterol
    • Physical inactivity
    • Obesity
    • High blood pressure
    • Family history of early heart disease

    Other heart diseases that can lead to cardiac arrest include weak heart muscle (cardiomyopathy), heart valve abnormalities, and inherited heart electrical system conditions such as long QT syndrome. Some drug usage, such as cocaine or amphetamines, or overdose on opioids or other pain medications, raises the risk of addiction.

    Finally, especially in those who are out of shape, the risk of cardiac arrest increases somewhat during and for up to 30 minutes following intensive exercise. However, the chances are one in 1.5 million during any given exercise session, which are considerably exceeded by the total heart-protective advantages of exercise.

    Sources: NHS

                     CDC

                     Harvard health publishing

  • Feel-good hormones: their effects on our mind, mood and body

    Feel-good hormones: their effects on our mind, mood and body

    Hormones are the chemical messengers in your body. Glands release hormones into your bloodstream, which work on various organs and tissues to control everything from your body’s function to your mood.

    One group of hormones are nicknamed the “feel-good hormones” because of the happy and, sometimes, euphoric feelings they produce. They’re also known as neurotransmitters, which implies they transport information between nerve cells. What are the four feel-good hormones? Dopamine, serotonin, endorphins, and oxytocin.

    Simple lifestyle adjustments, such as diet, exercise, and meditation, can help you increase the levels of these hormones and possibly improve your mood in the process.

    Do you need a supplement?

    Diet, exercise, and spending time with the people you care about are all natural strategies to boost the amount of feel-good hormones in your brain. It’s tempting to go for a supplement as a fast pick-me-up in the effort to feel better and avoid depression.

    Supplementing these hormones isn’t necessary for most people. Supplements can also have unfavorable and even dangerous side effects in some situations. 5-hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) tablets, for example, can aid to raise serotonin levels in the brain. However, their use has been associated to liver and brain damage, as well as eosinophilia myalgia syndrome (EMS), an uncommon but potentially fatal disorder that affects the muscles, skin, and lungs.

    It’s a good idea to check with your doctor before taking any supplements to make sure the product you want to buy is safe for you. Unless you’re deficient in a certain hormone, you might not even require a supplement. If you have a disorder like Parkinson’s disease, which is characterised by abnormally low levels of one of these hormones, your doctor can prescribe medication to treat it.

     

    The following are links to articles that discuss each of the four feel-good hormones and how they function:

     

  • Serotonin: The natural mood booster

    Serotonin: The natural mood booster

    Serotonin can stave off depression and provide a feeling a euphoria

    When you’re happy and everything seems to be going well, you’re experiencing the impacts of serotonin. This hormone is responsible for a variety of actions, including mood enhancement.

    Where is serotonin produced?

    Serotonin is produced in the brainstem’s center, which then acts on many different parts of the brain to affect a variety of functions and behaviors, including:

    • memory
    • fear
    • the stress response
    • digestion
    • addiction
    • sexuality
    • sleep
    • breathing
    • body temperature

    How to increase serotonin

    Serotonin deficiency has been linked to depression. Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) and serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs) are the most often used antidepressants. They function by raising serotonin levels in the brain.

    It’s also possible to boost serotonin levels without resorting to medication. Working out is a natural approach to boost serotonin levels. Your body releases more tryptophan, the amino acid that your brain uses to make serotonin, when you ride a bicycle or lift weights. This boost in serotonin (along with other endorphins and other neurotransmitters) is why many people get that feeling of euphoria known as a “runner’s high” after an intense workout. 

    Another option to naturally boost serotonin levels is to expose yourself to the sun or a bright light that mimics it. Light therapy is one of the most common therapies for seasonal affective disorder (SAD), the winter blues caused by a decline in serotonin levels.

    It’s a little more difficult to get more serotonin from meals. Tryptophan is abundant in protein-rich foods like turkey, but our bodies don’t convert it to serotonin very well. When you combine turkey with other high-protein foods, the protein is broken down into amino acids, which compete with tryptophan for passage through the blood-brain barrier (the border that prevents potentially harmful substances from reaching your brain). As a result, less tryptophan gets into the brain.

    Complex carbohydrate sources, such as vegetables, fruits, legumes, and whole grains, are one way to get more tryptophan into your brain. When you eat these carbs, your body creates insulin, which helps your muscles absorb more amino acids, giving tryptophan a better chance at reaching your brain.

    Serotonin is just one of the four feel-good hormones.

    Source: Harvard Health Publishing
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