|
| Norepinephrine |
|
|
 |
Review
Summary |
Those suffering from memory related problems, including forgetfulness and decline in mental sharpness and focus, may be experiencing imbalances in certain natural chemicals in the brain and throughout the body. One of the natural substances tied to cognitive function is Norepinephrine, which is classified as both a hormone and a neurotransmitter. A shortage in this substance in the brain has been associated with incidences of poor cognitive health, such as ADD and ADHD, according to reports.
|
| Hormone at a Glance |
|
Norepinephrine is said to be released in the body when triggered by a variety of stressful events, affecting our responsive impulses and attention in general. It is also believed to play a role in increasing heart rate, triggering glucose release from stored energy in the body, and also regulating the flow of blood to skeletal muscles. However, this hormone and neurotransmitter may have somewhat different effects on the body when introduced as a drug, often via injections.
|
| Hormone in Focus |
|
Some medical conditions as well as surgical procedures may call for the introduction of Norepinephrine as a drug, which may constrict the blood vessels and increase blood pressure, according to some web based sources. Those with high blood pressure, an overactive thyroid, asthma or allergies to sulfites are advised to alert doctors prior to receiving this drug, as side effects may occur. However, it is typically administered in a medical setting by a doctor, as opposed to drugs that are intended to be self administered.
There are many prescription drugs on the market that are geared towards increasing the presence of Norepinephrine and dopamine, which is a precursor to the substance in question. Many medications are evidently meant to be used to provide relief from ADD and ADHD, as some believe the risk of side effects may be lower than with other drugs. What is not clear, is to what extent this substance is important for general cognitive function, for which there are many natural supplements available. Some contain ingredients like Alpha GPC and Phosphatidylserine, which play an important role in manufacturing new cells and stimulating neurotransmitter activity.
|
| Lifestyle |
|
Deficiencies in this substance may not be a common problem in most healthy adults, and even those dealing with declines in cognitive function may not have to resort to prescription drugs to boost memory, focus and alertness. Some of the natural sources of Norepinephrine include proteins from some meats and egg whites, for example, which are digested into amino acids that are precursors to the hormone and neurotransmitter. Many men and women have reportedly found taking a natural capsule or tablet based supplement for cognitive support more convenient and lifestyle friendly than resorting to prescription drugs.
|
| Positives |
|
• The hormone and neurotransmitter occurs naturally in the brain
• The substance may be available as a pharmaceutical grade drug
|
| Negatives |
|
• Declines in Norepinephrine activity in the brain are fairly common
• Some drugs may boost this substance, but may cause side effects
• Prescription meds may be costly for those without medical coverage
• Many prescription drugs are typically not intended for long-term use
• The medications may not boost the production of Choline in the brain
• We would like to see more positive testimonials for related drugs
|
| Final Thoughts |
|
There are all kinds of chemical reactions and processes going on in the brain at every stage of life, so it is important to keep the supply of blood, oxygen and key nutrients to the brain up as we age. Norepinephrine plays a key role in our ability to respond and affects our attention, which is why individuals suffering from ADD or ADHD may be prescribed drugs to increase their levels of the hormone and neurotransmitter. But there are other functions of the brain that are affected by the presence, or lack thereof, of vital nutrients that aid in manufacturing new cells or stimulating neurotransmitter activity, for example. However, a number of proven, all natural supplements are available as an alternative to pharmaceutical drugs for cognitive support. Such supplements may be great alternatives, as they tend to come with fewer risks and side effects.
|
| Our
Editors Choice:
|
Week
of: Tue Aug 31st, 2010 |
|
Neurostin® -
Neurostin™ is a blend of non-prescription ingredients that were carefully formulated to reverse and prevent the depletion of the nutrients your brain needs to perform optimally. This is a very well received product that customers speak highly of. The unique formula of Neurostin™ provides your body with all the necessary building blocks to make choline which is the most vital component needed by the cells that comprise both short and long term memory. The formula has also been proven to produce both oxygen and blood flow to the brain which decrease and reverse the effects of deterioration. Neurostin is one of the few formulas that regulates the levels of homocysteine which is key in preventing both long term memory loss and Alzheimer’s. This is an awesome overall formula that enhances overall brain function, sharpness and clarity Click Here to read our full review. |
|
|
|
|
|
|
