Amino acid therapy is a term we use to describe the process of determining and giving the body the nutrients it needs to restore proper neurotransmitter function. The nutrients needed include various amino acids (which are the precursors to neurotransmitters) and any other vitamins or minerals needed to help improve the conversion of amino acids into their respective neurotransmitters (these are often referred to as ‘cofactors’).
By giving the body the necessary nutrients to restore proper neurotransmitter function, amino acid therapy can effectively address the root cause of neurotransmitter imbalance(s), which results in a long-term solution and elimination of symptoms due to neurotransmitter imbalance.
There are many other therapies that are often used for neurotransmitter imbalance. The most common are various forms of medications which in some way shuffle around neurotransmitters – such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs), and selective norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs), mimic neurotransmitters – such as triptan medications, and/or medications which cause increased release of neurotransmitter – such as benzodiazepines, barbiturates and many sleep medications. However, none of these medications actually restore proper neurotransmitter function over the long term and all of them lead to further neurotransmitter depletion and imbalance over time.
Another common therapy employed with many disorders related to neurotransmitter imbalances is some form of psychotherapy. Psychotherapy can be very effective to help people better understand any psychological or emotional causes for the way that they feel and can be a great benefit for many people. However, it cannot correct an underlying neurotransmitter imbalance, which can limit the effectiveness of the therapy. Oftentimes, using amino acid therapy in conjunction with psychotherapy is the best option for most people to completely address all the underlying issues leading to their symptoms.
Properly balanced amino acid therapy is the only way currently known to restore optimal neurotransmitter function. This requires the guidance of a health care professional trained in the use of amino acid therapy; however, the time and cost savings of working with a trained professional will more than cover any costs involved while leading to a dramatic improvement in a person’s quality of life.
