Neurotransmitter Summary
Your scores from the Stress & Energy assessment
9-10
6-8
3-5
0-2
Dopamine Score
4
Endorphin Score
4
Noradrenaline Score
4
Acetylcholine Score
3
GABA Score
3
Serotonin Score
3
, a few notes about your scores…
For scores in the deficient/depleted ranges, you’ll want to start with a review of the associated cofactors to determine which ones you could be deficient in. Cofactor deficiencies are often the result of lifestyle factors such as diet and alcohol consumption.
Once you’ve identified the cofactors you’ll most likely need to improve your scores, review the associated precursors and include at least one for optimal results. Precursors are an efficient way to boost neurotransmitter levels quickly and safely.
After you’ve established which cofactors and precursors you’ll be using, move on to the augmentors section. With augmentors, you’ll want to be a little more selective by choosing at most 1 or 2 for each neurotransmitter in the deficient/depleted ranges. Many augmentors work like drugs, which means combining too many can have undesirable effects (and lead to redundancies).
For optimal scores, you may not want to change or add anything to your supplement stack. Of course you’ll eventually encounter some ‘off days’, such as when you don’t get enough sleep or you get ‘overworked’.
Because you have an optimal dopamine score, a special section for inhibitors is available for your review. If you feel that too much dopamine is sometimes a problem, consider including one or more inhibitors to help manage obsessive-compulsive, manic, and/or addictive behaviors.
Because you have an optimal serotonin score, pay special attention to the supplement options with the <i></i> label. These supplements are known to affect methylation and thereby neurotransmitter production. If you feel that too much serotonin is sometimes a problem, consider including an option that inhibits methylation. See the benefits section of each supplement for more info.
For suboptimal scores, you’ll want to start with a review of the associated cofactors & precursors to determine which ones you could be deficient in. Suboptimal levels are often the result of a deficiency in just one or a few cofactors/precursors. Review the available options to determine which ones are appropriate for your lifestyle and needs.
If you don’t notice much improvement from cofactors or precursors, consider including an augmentor for the respective neurotransmitter. While augmentors are not included in results for suboptimal scores, you can access them by viewing the full list of options for any neurotransmitter.
Results Summary
The number of supplement options available for your score
Dopamine options
cofactors
precursors
augmentors
Endorphin options
cofactors
precursors
augmentors
Noradrenaline options
cofactors
precursors
augmentors
Acetylcholine options
cofactors
precursors
augmentors
GABA options
cofactors
precursors
augmentors
Serotonin options
cofactors
precursors
augmentors
, a few notes about your supplement options…
Supplements are listed under the results section of each neurotransmitter. Depending on your score, you will see categories for inhibitors, cofactors, precursors, and augmentors.
Neurotransmitter Primers
Neurotransmitters Defined
Learn about the neurotransmitters responsible for mood, attention, imagination, and more.
Neurotransmitters Defined
Neurotransmitters (NTs) are endogenous chemicals that typically serve as ‘messengers’ to activate/deactivate processes within the body via ‘neuronal signaling’. While there are over 500 known NTs in the human body, those which have the most direct effect on emotional & mental wellbeing are discussed here.
Dopamine
The Motivation Neurotransmitter
Dopamine is possibly the most well known NT, mainly because pop culture has labeled it the ‘reward chemical’ of the brain. While it’s true that dopamine is involved in reward-based behavior, the primary function is more closely related to motivation. When dopamine is adequate, we are more easily inspired and willing to risk more resources (ie. ‘our precious time’) to pursue new ideas and opportunities. Without enough of this neurotransmitter, we feel weighed-down by circumstances, have trouble starting new tasks, and give up on things more easily. A chronic deficiency in dopamine often results in apathy, pessimism, and/or hopelessness.
Noradrenaline
The Action Neurotransmitter
Noradrenaline is the neurotransmitter responsible for the fight-or-flight response, and when released, causes an increase in heart rate as well as blood flow to muscles.
In the brain, noradrenaline exerts strong effects related to focus & attention. When noradrenaline is adequate, we experience more willingness to take on challenges and address important tasks. Without enough of this neurotransmitter, we feel overwhelmed by our work, and defeated by stressful events. A chronic deficiency in noradrenaline often results in lethargy, slow reaction-timing, and distracted thinking.
Acetylcholine
The Attention Neurotransmitter
Acetylcholine (Ach) is a neurotransmitter that facilitates muscle contraction in the body. In the brain, Ach is involved in memory formation, recall, learning, and attention. When Ach is adequate, we are able to focus on challenging tasks, articulate ideas with relative ease, and keep track of the things that need our attention. Without enough of this neurotransmitter, we become easily confused and may find it harder to communicate ideas. A chronic acetylcholine deficiency typically results in lack of coordination, forgetfulness, and/or poor attention span.
GABA
The Restorative Neurotransmitter
GABA is a neurotransmitter known for inhibiting other neurotransmitters and related functions throughout the body. One of the main actions of GABA (in the brain) is to block the activity of glutimate (an excitatory neurotransmitter). GABA is necessary for inducing a restful state for the central nervous system. When GABA is adequate, we are able to rest easily, stay organized, and remain calm when necessary. Without enough of this neurotransmitter, we become nervous, scattered, and may find it difficult to relax. A chronic GABA deficiency will typically lead to impulsive behavior, constantly feeling ‘wired’, and short attention span.
Serotonin
The Connection Neurotransmitter
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter involved in cognition, mood, and anxiety, although the exact mechanisms of action are not yet fully understood. To a certain extent, serotonin facilitates the regulation of certain other neurotransmitters, owing to it’s complexity of function. When serotonin is adequate, we feel a greater need to socialize, explore, and engage that which brings us joy. Whether enjoyment comes from reading a new book, listening to music, or spending time with friends, serotonin is responsible for getting you in the mood to do it. Without enough of this neurotransmitter, we become frustrated, socially distant, and discontent. A chronic deficiency often results in anxiety, self-isolation, and a lack of desire for pleasurable experiences.
[2] Borodovitsyna, Olga, et al. “Noradrenergic Modulation of Cognition in Health and Disease.” Neural Plasticity, vol. 2017, 2017, pp. 1–14, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5450174/, 10.1155/2017/6031478. Accessed 23 Aug. 2021.
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Distinguishing Deficiency from Imbalance
Learn how to tell the difference between a neurotransmitter deficiency and an imbalance.
Deficiency vs Imbalance
When considering the functions of neurotransmitters, the concept of balance can be applied to address many of the causes of neurochemical dysfunction. While there can be a tendency to label most causes a factor of deficiency, this model is too simplistic for neurotransmitters. The reason is that an imbalance between two related neurotransmitters can present symptoms similar to a deficiency in just one of them. Furthermore, excess production of one neurotransmitter may actually result in a deficiency of another. While some common distinctions between excessive & deficient are factored into the Stress & Energy Guide’s assessment, the concept of imbalance may refer to an excess of one neurotransmitter resulting in a perceived deficiency in another.
In a case where one neurotransmitter appears to be deficient while the corresponding ‘counter-balanced’ neurotransmitter seems optimal, it may be advantageous to consider whether an imbalance is to blame. To cite an example, excessive dopamine production can result in serotonin deficiency. This is mainly because many of the same water-soluble cofactors (which the body cannot store) are used to synthesis both of these neurotransmitters.
For the most part, imbalances can be resolved through lifestyle and/or dietary changes. For example, in the case of excessive dopamine causing serotonin deficiency, sometimes reducing caffeine intake or changing what you eat for lunch can correct the imbalance. When complimentary neurotransmitters seem to be opposite ends of the spectrum, it’s best to question current lifestyle and dietary choices rather than try to address a perceived deficiency merely through supplementation.
Of the five neurotransmitters addressed by the Stress & Energy Guide, there are two distinct complimentary sets. We arrive at two sets because one of the neurotransmitters (noradrenaline) is produced from another (dopamine). A brief description of the sets with some examples are outlined here.
Dopamine <-> Serotonin
When dopamine and/or noradrenaline production increases, the cofactors needed for serotonin may end up in short supply [1]. This is an especially common scenario for those who consume caffeine in the daytime and alcohol in the evening. The reason being that caffeine promotes the synthesis of dopamine and noradrenaline while alcohol triggers the uptake of dopamine and serotonin. To counter-balance this effect, the body will try to make more serotonin, but will be limited by a deficiency in the cofactors previously involved in dopamine production. This may partially explain why many people experience significant mood changes as alcohol consumption progresses later into the evening.
Acetylcholine <-> GABA
When there is an excess of Ach, the natural response is excitability. Excitability is dependent on glutamate, which competes for the same resources as GABA. So while acetylcholine synthesis does not directly compete with GABA for resources, the resulting physiological changes do [2]. For someone with a morning routine that includes heavy caffeine consumption and a lot of mental stimulation, acetylcholine utilization will go into ‘high-gear’, triggering glutamate and [thereby] inhibiting GABA.
References
[1] GOLDSTEIN, MENEK, and RENATA FRENKEL. “Inhibition of Serotonin Synthesis by Dopa and Other Catechols.” Nature New Biology, vol. 233, no. 40, Oct. 1971, pp. 179–180, www.nature.com/articles/newbio233179a0, 10.1038/newbio233179a0.
[2] Trudeau, Louis-Eric, and Salah El Mestikawy. “Glutamate Cotransmission in Cholinergic, GABAergic and Monoamine Systems: Contrasts and Commonalities.” Frontiers in Neural Circuits, vol. 12, 18 Dec. 2018, www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fncir.2018.00113/full, 10.3389/fncir.2018.00113.
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neurotransmitters
dopamine results
Dopamine Score
4
9-10
6-8
3-5
0-2
Next Steps
- Review the general tips under Choosing the Best Supplements for You as well as the personalized notes for your score.
- Review & save supplement options to a list. Everything you need to get started (including dosages & schedules) is provided in the sections for cofactors, precursors, and augmentors.
- If you’re unsure about a specific item, check out the benefits, applications, and precautions sections for more info.
Choosing the Right Supplements for You
Because dopamine is often affected by addictive substances, choosing the right supplements may come down to whether you will be detoxing from sugar, alcohol, and/or caffeine (see the detox guide for more info). If your main concern is addressing depression, identifying supplements to address your symptoms is the next step.
- Review the benefits section to determine whether a supplement is suitable for addressing your needs.
- Compare time-of-day suggestions to identify schedule-based needs. For example, if you struggle more with depression in the afternoon than in the morning, options that support dopamine+serotonin may offer greater benefit than those which are dopamine-specific.
, a few notes about optimal dopamine
Your score suggests that your dopamine levels are probably as good as it gets. Keep in mind that too much of anything is not always a good thing. Excessive dopamine activity can effect behavior with a tendency to take uncalculated risks and seek euphoric experiences irresponsibly. If you feel that too much dopamine is sometimes a problem, look for supplements that help to regulate dopamine, indicated by the lightning bolt [ ] with a bidirectional arrow. Excessive dopamine activity may also be caused by overmethylation related to genetic polymorphisms.
, a few notes about suboptimal dopamine
With a SUBOPTIMAL dopamine score, you’re likely to benefit from a few supplement options. The ones you choose may depend on current diet & lifestyle choices that could be causing minor cofactor/precursor deficiencies. If symptoms of low dopamine tend to bother you only at specific times of the day, consider one or more augmentors that can really turn up the activity. Just look for options labeled with the [lighting bolt up arrow].
, a few notes about dopamine deficiency
With a dopamine score in the DEFICIENT range, you’re likely to benefit from a couple of options in each category shown below. Depending on your current diet & lifestyle choices, certain cofactors & precursors may be more helpful than others. Check out the ‘benefits’ and ‘indications’ sections of each supplement to help you identify which ones are most applicable to you.
, a few notes about dopamine depletion…
With a dopamine score in the DEPLETED range, you’re likely to benefit from the individualized feedback of a live person who can help identify the most appropriate options. You may need several cofactors, precursors, and augmentors to bounce back quickly, and it may take a very targeted approach to make that happen. To setup a chat with someone who can help, use the scheduling option below.
, your responses from the assessment suggest that undermethylation could be contributing to your depression. Look for the icon to identify supplement options in this section that promote methylation.
, your responses from the assessment suggest that overmethylation could be contributing to your anxiety. Look for the icon to identify supplement options in this section that reduce methylation.
Not sure where to go from here?
Find answers to common questions and see what other users are talking about by visiting the Dopamine FAQ & Forum.
Neurotransmitter Key Facts
Learn why dopamine is important, causes of imbalance and more.
What is dopamine?
Dopamine is one of the primary neurotransmitters responsible for cognitive performance. While dopamine is often associated with a state of pleasure, the function of dopamine could be more accurately described as motivational salience.
Why is dopamine important?
Adequate levels of dopamine are necessary for maintaining interest in perceived goals & objectives. Without sufficient dopamine function, there is a tendency to become apathetic, complacent, and generally disinterested in life.
What causes dopamine imbalance?
Too much dopamine can result from chronic caffeine consumption or the use of amphetamines. Excessive levels can lead to impulsivity, abrupt changes in risk tolerance, and obsessive behavior.
Dopamine depletion can occur from excessive exercise and sexual arousal as well as chronic consumption of sugar, alcohol, and amphetamines.
What is required to make dopamine?
Phenylalanine
Tyrosine
Dopamine
How can dopamine function be improved?
Consuming foods such as meat. eggs, cheese, nuts, and seeds
Supplementing with cofactors, precursors, & augmentors
Exercising, sun bathing, meditating, listening to music
Read More
Dopamine Inhibitors
Dopamine cofactors
Cofactors are vitamins, minerals, or other nutrients that are required to catalyze the synthesis of a neurotransmitter. Cofactor deficiencies typically occur under conditions of chronic stress, substance abuse, or when there is a dietary insufficiency.
Dopamine Precursors
Precursors are chemical compounds (such as amino acids) that serve as building blocks in the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitter precursors are typically protein-based and obtained through the diet.
Dopamine Augmentors
Augmentors are biochemical agents that stimulate the production of a neurotransmitter or regulate it’s activity in some way. Using an augmentor to improve neurotransmitter function works best when cofactors & precursors are at their optimal levels.
neurotransmitters
endorphin results
Endorphin Score
4
9-10
6-8
3-5
0-2
Next Steps
- Review the general tips under Choosing the Best Supplements for You as well as the personalized notes for your score.
- Review & save supplement options to a list. Everything you need to get started (including dosages & schedules) is provided in the sections for cofactors, precursors, and augmentors.
- If you’re unsure about a specific item, check out the benefits, applications, and precautions sections for more info.
Choose the Supplements Right for You
There are very few supplements that can safely & effectively raise endorphins. For those listed in the Stess & Energy Supplement Guide, DLPA is arguably the most effective due to its direct action on enzymes that break down endorphins.
Considering that increased endorphin release has on effect on dopamine regulation, taking NAC alongside DLPA can help keep levels in balance. This combination is also known for reducing cravings for sugar, alcohol, and caffeine.
Notes About Optimal Endorphin Function
Your score indicates that your endorphin levels are probably as good as they’re going to get. Remember too much of anything is not always a good thing. Excessive endorphin activity affects behavior with a tendency toward apathy and lethargy. While this is not common, certain drugs as well as frequent high-intensity exercise can overstimulate endorphin activity. Supplements that support endorphin activity are shown below, although you might not benefit from these if your levels are already high.
Notes About Suboptimal Endorphin Function
With an endorphin score in the suboptimal range you may benefit from some supplement options. Your choices may depend on current dietary and lifestyle choices that lead to minor cofactor/precursor deficiencies. If symptoms of low endorphin levels tend to only bother you at certain times of the day, consider one or more augmentors to enhance activity.
Notes About Endorphin Deficiency
With an endorphin score is in the DEFICIENT range you may benefit from several options in each category shown below. Depending on your current diet and lifestyle choices some cofactors & precursors may be more helpful than others. View the benefits and Indications sections for each supplement to help you decide which ones are best for you. Also consider one or more augmentors to give you a ‘boost’ at certain times of the day when symptoms are more likely.
Notes About Endorphin Depletion
With a dopamine score in the DEPLETED range, you’re likely to benefit from the individualized feedback of a live person who can help identify the most appropriate options. You may need several cofactors, precursors, and augmentors to bounce back quickly, and it may take a very targeted approach to make that happen. To setup a chat with someone who can help, use the scheduling option below.
Endorphin Key Facts
What are endorphins?
Endorphins and [more specifically] beta-endorphin are a class of neuropeptides responsible for regulating pain, hunger, euphoria, reward satisfaction, and sexual arousal.
Why are endorphins important?
Endorphins are necessary for mediating the response to pain as well as reinforcing reward. Without endorphins, the experience of satisfaction would not be possible.
What causes endorphin imbalance?
A depletion of beta-endorphin can result from excessive exercise, insomnia, adrenal insufficiency, and other conditions brought on by chronic fatigue. Dopamine deficiency can inhibit endorphin expression.
What is required to make endorphins?
POMC
beta-Lipotropin
beta-Endorphin
How can endorphin function be improved?
Consuming foods such as chocolate, drinking caffeinated beverages.
Supplementing with endorphin cofactors, precursors, & augmentors
Exercising, sun bathing, meditating, listening to music
Read More
References
“Proopiomelanocortin.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 5 May 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Proopiomelanocortin. Accessed 7 May 2021.
“Beta-Endorphin.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 24 Apr. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beta-Endorphin. Accessed 7 May 2021.
Craft, Lynette L., and Frank M. Perna. “The Benefits of Exercise for the Clinically Depressed.” The Primary Care Companion to the Journal of Clinical Psychiatry, vol. 06, no. 03, 1 June 2004, pp. 104–111, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC474733/, 10.4088/pcc.v06n0301. Accessed 7 May 2021.
Look at that high score!
Wow! Your score suggests that your endorphin levels are probably as good as it gets. Keep in mind that too much of anything is not a good thing. Excessive endorphin activity can effect behavior with a tendency toward complacency and acquiescence.
Proceed to the next neurotransmitter section to see more results.
Endorphin Cofactors
ENDORPHIN regulators
Adding at least 1 option is recommended for your score.
endorphin Augmentors
neurotransmitters
noradrenaline results
noradrenaline Score
4
9-10
6-8
3-5
0-2
Next Steps
Functional categories include cofactors, precursors, and augmentors.
- Review the supplements selected for your noradrenaline score.
- Add one (or more) selections to your private supplement list using the options below.
- Consider including at least one supplement from each functional category shown in your results. 
Choose the Supplements Right for You
Noradrenaline imbalances and deficiencies are typically the result of an overworked nervous system. Furthermore, excessive cortisol production can make it difficult to recover from an imbalance/deficiency.
For those suffering from chronically high levels of stress w/ fatigue, a combination of vitamin C, tyrosine, and ashwagandha can help to improve noradrenaline levels by lowering cortisol & increasing production of this neurotransmitter.
Noradrenaline Key Facts
What is noradrenaline?
Norandrenaline (aka norepinephrine) is a hormone and neurotransmitter primarily involved in the fight-or-flight response as well as autonomic functions such as heart rate and blood pressure. Noradrenaline promotes states of alertness & attention as well as heightened memory formation & recall.
Why is noradrenaline important?
Nordrenaline is necessary for sustaining focus & attention. Without noradrenaline, it would be nearly impossible to finish tasks, especially under stressful conditions.
What causes adrenaline imbalance?
Too much noradrenaline can result from excessive caffeine consumption, the use of amphetamines, and [short-term] sleep depravation.
Noradrenaline depletion can occur from chronic insomnia, a poor immune response, chronic anxiety, among other factors related to stress.
What is required to make noradrenaline?
Tyrosine
Dopamine
Noradrenaline
How can noradrenaline function be improved?
Consuming protein-rich foods
Supplementing with noradrenaline cofactors, precursors, & augmentors
Exercising, thrill-seeking, novel experiences
Read More
References
“Catecholamine Synthesis – an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics.” Sciencedirect.com, 2012, www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/catecholamine-synthesis. Accessed 7 May 2021.
Look at that high score!
Wow! Your score suggests that your noradrenaline levels are probably as good as it gets. Keep in mind that too much of anything is not a good thing. Excessive noradrenaline activity can effect behavior with a tendency to get overexcited & hyperactive.
Proceed to the next neurotransmitter section to see more results.
Your responses from the assessment suggest that undermethylation could be contributing to your depression. Look for the icon to identify supplement options in this section that promote methylation.
Your responses from the assessment suggest that overmethylation could be contributing to your anxiety. Look for the icon to identify supplement options in this section that reduce methylation.
Noradrenaline cofactors
Noradrenaline Precursors
Noradrenaline Augmentors
neurotransmitters
Acetylcholine Results
Acetylcholine Score
3
9-10
6-8
3-5
0-2
Next Steps
Functional categories include cofactors, precursors, and augmentors.
- Review the supplements selected for your acetylcholine score.
- Add one (or more) selections to your private supplement list using the options below.
- Consider including at least one supplement from each functional category shown in your results. 
Choose the Supplements Right for You
Promoting healthy acetylcholine function comes down to ensuring cofactors & precursors are adequate. Because this neurotransmitter is used extensively throughout the body (for muscle contraction), cofactor & precursor deficiencies tend to affect physical AND mental performance.
Vitamin B1 deficiency is commonly seen with chronic consumption of sugar, alcohol, and/or caffeine. Furthermore, those practicing a vegan (or restricted vegatarian) diet may become deficient in choline [Ach1].
Benfotiamine (B1) and Alpha-GPC (choline) are excellent choices for addressing these deficiencies as they are well absorbed and fast-acting.
Acetylcholine Key Facts
What is acetylcholine?
Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter used by the central nervous system to activate muscles. In the brain acetylcholine is involved in processes related to memory, arousal, attention, and motivation.
Optimal acetylcholine function produces sharper learning and memory recall as well as fluent articulation of ideas.
Why is acetylcholine important?
Acetylcholine is necessary for comprehending complex ideas and expressing thoughts coherently. Without acetylcholine, conceptualization and articulating new ideas would be impossible.
What causes acetylcholine imbalance?
Since acetylcholine is a water-soluble chemical used throughout the entire nervous system, it’s nearly impossible to store excessive amounts. Preventing the breakdown of acetylcholine is possible, leading to excessive circulating amounts known as ‘cholinergic crisis’. Common causes are exposure to certain insecticides and nicotine poisoning.
Acetylcholine depletion can occur from failing to obtain adequate choline from the diet. Since most sources of choline are animal derived, vegans & vegetarians are most at risk of acetylcholine deficiency.
What is required to make acetylcholine?
Pyruvate
Acetyl coA+Choline (diet)
Acetylcholine
How can acetylcholine function be improved?
Consuming foods rich in choline, such as chicken, fish, and eggs.
Supplementing with acetylcholine cofactors, precursors, & augmentors
Regularly engaging in activities that involve learning and/or problem-solving.
Read More
References
[1] “Cholinergic Crisis.” Wikipedia, Wikimedia Foundation, 15 Mar. 2021, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cholinergic_crisis.
[2] “Acetylcholine Synthesis and Metabolism.” Sigmaaldrich.com, 2011, www.sigmaaldrich.com/US/en/technical-documents/technical-article/research-and-disease-areas/cell-signaling/acetylcholine-synthesis-and-metabolism, Dogri.
[3] Gibson, Gary E., and Masahisa Shimada. “Studies on the Metabolic Pathway of the Acetyl Group for Acetylcholine Synthesis.” Biochemical Pharmacology, vol. 29, no. 2, Jan. 1980, pp. 167–174, www.peirsoncenter.com/uploads/6/0/5/5/6055321/30c9fb978d877e3c68ad3f425794ee5efa5f.pdf, 10.1016/0006-2952(80)90325-1.
Look at that high score!
Wow! Your score suggests that your acetylcholine levels are probably as good as it gets. Keep in mind that too much of anything is not a good thing. Excessive acetylcholine activity can effect behavior with a tendency to ramble and over-analyze.
Proceed to the next neurotransmitter section to see more results.
Acetylcholine Cofactors
ACETYLCHOLINE precursors
ACETYLCHOLINE augmentors
neurotransmitters
GABA Results
GABA Score
3
9-10
6-8
3-5
0-2
Next Steps
Functional categories include cofactors, precursors, and augmentors.
- Review the supplements selected for GABA score.
- Add one (or more) selections to your private supplement list using the options below.
- Consider including at least one supplement from each functional category shown in your results. 
Choose the Supplements Right for You
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GABA Key Facts
What is GABA?
GABA (gamma-Aminobutyric acid) is a neurotransmitter used by the central nervous system to reduce neuronal excitability. In the brain GABA is involved in processes related to organization, equilibrium, and rest.
Optimal GABA function results in a healthy response to nervous system stimulation as well as recovery from overstimulation.
Why is GABA important?
GABA is necessary for downregulating neuronal excitability. Without GABA, overstimulation by other neurotransmitters would occur, resulting in seizures and eventually death. Throughout the body, GABA is utilized for rest states, such as sleeping and exercise recovery.
What causes GABA imbalance?
While the body tends to balance the amount of GABA vs glutamate needed, GABA can be artificially increased with certain drugs. Most of these drugs function as analogues with a high affinity for absorption/reception and thus often result in rapid tolerance.
GABA depletion can occur from failing to obtain adequate glutamine from the diet. Since most sources of glutamine are animal derived, vegans & vegetarians are most at risk of GABA deficiency. Excessive exercise as well as chronic alcohol consumption can also lower systemic GABA levels.
What is required to make GABA?
Glutamine
Glutamine
GABA
How can GABA function be improved?
Consuming foods rich in glutamine, such as meat, eggs, nuts, and seeds.
Supplementing with GABA cofactors, precursors, & augmentors
Regularly engaging in activities that involve organizing, meditating, relaxing, or otherwise reduce overstimulation.
Read More
References
“Catecholamine Synthesis – an Overview | ScienceDirect Topics.” Sciencedirect.com, 2012, www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/catecholamine-synthesis. Accessed 7 May 2021.
Look at that high score!
Wow! Your score suggests that your GABA levels are probably as good as it gets. Keep in mind that too much of anything is not a good thing. Excessive GABA activity can effect behavior with a tendency to become lethargic.
Proceed to the next neurotransmitter section to see more results.
GABA cofactors
GABA precursors
GABA augmentors
neurotransmitters
Serotonin Results
Serotonin Score
3
9-10
6-8
3-5
0-2
Next Steps
Functional categories include cofactors, precursors, and augmentors.
- Review the supplements selected for serotonin score.
- Add one (or more) selections to your private supplement list using the options below.
- Consider including at least one supplement from each functional category shown in your results. 
Detox Without Being Drained
Take the Stress & Energy Detox Assessment to learn how you can overcome addiction to sugar, alcohol, or caffeine while staying on top of your game.
Learn More
Choose the Supplements Right for You
In order to choose the most effective options, it’s important to know which deficiency factors apply to you . For example, chronically high levels of cortisol causes more serotonin to be absorbed, which can result in a deficiency. Diets low in tryptophan (vegan) and tryptophan absorption (ketogenic) are other factors to consider.
For high cortisol, supplement combinations such as ashwagandha & vitamin C may help reduce excessive serotonin absorption. For diet-related deficiency, supplementing with tryptophan or 5-HTP can help restore levels.
TBD Serotonin Key Facts
What is serotonin?
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter serving a multitude of regulatory functions in the brain and body. In the brain, serotonin is mainly involved in coping & adapting to stress as well as social reinforcement.[1]
Optimal serotonin function enables adaptive coping to stress as well as a healthy response to social queues.
Why is serotonin important?
Serotonin is necessary for coping & adapting to stress as well promoting social reward. Without serotonin, the desire to socialize and the capacity to confront stressful events would not exist.
What causes serotonin imbalance?
Serotonin depletion mainly occurs from failing to obtain adequate tryptophan from the diet or from sustaining high levels of the stress hormone cortisol.[2] Since most sources of tryptophan are animal derived, vegans & vegetarians are most at risk of deficiency. Acute & chronic alcohol consumption also disrupt the synthesis of serotonin.[3]
What is required to make serotonin?
Tryptophan
5-HTP
Serotonin
How can serotonin function be improved?
Consuming foods rich in tryptophan, such as poultry, fish, beef, tofu, and milk
Supplementing with serotonin cofactors, precursors, & augmentors
Regularly engaging in activities that involve socializing or otherwise engaging [positively] with others.
Read More
References
[1] Carhart-Harris, RL, and DJ Nutt. “Serotonin and Brain Function: A Tale of Two Receptors.” Journal of Psychopharmacology, vol. 31, no. 9, 31 Aug. 2017, pp. 1091–1120, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5606297/, 10.1177/0269881117725915.
[2] TAFET, G. E., et al. “Correlation between Cortisol Level and Serotonin Uptake in Patients with Chronic Stress and Depression.” Cognitive, Affective, & Behavioral Neuroscience, vol. 1, no. 4, 1 Dec. 2001, pp. 388–393, pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12467090/, 10.3758/cabn.1.4.388.
[3] Badawy, Abdulla A.-B. “Tryptophan Metabolism in Alcoholism.” Nutrition Research Reviews, vol. 15, no. 01, June 2002, p. 123, www.cambridge.org/core/journals/nutrition-research-reviews/article/tryptophan-metabolism-in-alcoholism/388B8B7DC5EDC614B9D890E228151774, 10.1079/nrr200133.
Look at that high score!
Wow! Your score suggests that your serotonin levels are probably as good as it gets. Keep in mind that too much of anything is not a good thing. Excessive serotonin activity can effect behavior with a tendency to develop social anxiety.
Proceed to the next neurotransmitter section to see more results.
Your responses from the assessment suggest that undermethylation could be contributing to your depression. Look for the icon to identify supplement options in this section that promote methylation.
Your responses from the assessment suggest that overmethylation could be contributing to your anxiety. Look for the icon to identify supplement options in this section that reduce methylation.
Serotonin cofactors
Serotonin precursors
Drug Interaction Warning
Combining serotonin precursors with SSRI (serotonin selective reuptake inhibitor) medications can lead to a potentially fatal condition known as ‘serotonin syndrome’. Talk with your doctor first if you are currently taking one or more SSRI medications.
Serotonin Augmentors
You may need to incrementally increase the dose of some augmentors to experience the full benefits. Consider concurrently increasing associated cofactors and precursors to reduce/prevent ‘neurotransmitter burnout’.
Next Up: Stress Response Results
- Discover the best types of cannabis to address your level of anxiety and depression.
- Find out which supplements can complement your cannabis options for more energy, focus, and creativity.
- Save results to your personal supplement stack to see even more tips & suggestions.
