Depression is a growing epidemic that affects the lives of nearly 15 million Americans. The number of individuals diagnosed with depression will continue to grow as a result of population growth, poor diet, environmental toxins, genetic polymorphisms, and other unique neurophysiological factors. As a result of depression, it is estimated that nearly 1 out of …
A recent publication in the Journal of Psychiatric Practice documented that nearly 4/5 individuals diagnosed with major depression are considered ineligible to participate in clinical trials for new antidepressant drugs. This means that for every 5 individuals with depression that attempt to join an antidepressant clinical trial, only one will meet inclusion criteria for registration. …
We’ve all heard the media-driven dogma that everyone needs at least 8 hours of sleep per night for optimal neurophysiological performance. Striving for 8 hours of sleep is generally a healthy rule of thumb [for most people], but shouldn’t be considered a utopian amount for everyone. Many individuals diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) sleep …
Brain imaging (neuroimaging) was invented in the 1880s by Angelo Mosso, who devised a technique referenced as the “human circulation balance.” This technique was able to assess how blood was redistributed throughout the brain as an individual experienced emotion and/or engaged in intellectual tasks. It wasn’t until the early 1900s that a newer, improved brain …
A ketogenic diet involves consumption of foods with high fat (80%), moderate protein (15%), and low carbohydrates (5%). Consistent intake of high fat, moderate protein foods, with simultaneous avoidance of carbohydrates, allows the body to transition from using glucose (sugar) as a primary source of fuel, to using ketone bodies (commonly called “ketones”). During ketosis, …
Tyrosine is a non-essential amino acid that was discovered in 1846 by Justus von Liebig, a German chemist. The word “tyrosine” is derived from the Greek term “tyros” – meaning “cheese.” L-Tyrosine is commonly taken in the form of a dietary supplement to facilitate catecholamine synthesis. Upon ingestion of L-tyrosine, the body metabolizes it into …
Tyrosine is a nonessential amino acid that was discovered circa 1846. The word “tyrosine” is derived from the Greek word “tyros” which translates roughly to “cheese.” Tyrosine is most commonly cited as “L-tyrosine” or the levorotatory “L” enantiomer due to the fact that L-amino acids are manufactured in cells and used in protein synthesis; dextrorotatory …