Mood disturbances from altered neurotransmitter activity can range from low energy, irritability, fatigue, and malaise to trouble sleeping, clinical depression, bipolar disorder, and fibromyalgia. These disorders are often related to poor methylation cycles, deficiencies in key nutrients, and poor neurotransmitter synthesis. Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients are necessary for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, healthy nerve transmission, healthy brain chemistry, and normal muscle contraction/relaxation. The components in Mood Protect address each of these areas. Why Choose Mood Protect? Mood Protect™ is an advanced formula used to enhance the synthesis of chemical messengers that support calmness, a healthy mood, and a healthy nervous system. This contains key methylating agents that are vital to the synthesis of neurotransmitters This product contains the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA, which is key to relaxing and toning the brain. It also has the precursor to serotonin in 5-HTP, which is important for a sense of calmness and relaxation. What Are Methylation Co-Factors? Methylation is the addition of a methyl group (a carbon atom with three hydrogen atoms attached) to proteins, enzymes, chemicals, DNA, or amino acids like homocysteine. It is a vital aspect of nervous system health and is necessary for the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Mood Protect provides key nutrients involved in the methylation pathway, such as selenomethionine; vitamin B6 as pyridoxal 5’-phosphate; vitamin B12 as the readily bioavailable form, methylcobalamin; and folate as bioactive Quatrefolic® (5-MTHF glucosamine salt) and calcium folinate (1). Pyridoxine nutritional status selectively modulates central production of serotonin and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)—neurotransmitters that are involved in physical pain perception and mental wellness (2). Magnesium:Magnesium is provided as Albion® TRAACS® glycinate chelate, a specific form demonstrated to support intraneuronal magnesium sufficiency (3). As a cofactor for over 325 enzymes in the body, magnesium has a multitude of actions, including a calming effect on the nervous system and regulation of muscle contraction. Laboratory, animal, and epidemiological research suggest a link between magnesium sufficiency and a healthy mood and calm demeanor (4, 5) Vitamin C:Vitamin C participates in the enzyme activity of two copper dependent monooxygenases that are important in the synthesis of norepinephrine and serotonin. In addition, vitamin C regulates the activity of some neurons within the brain that affect neurotransmitter membrane receptor synthesis and neurotransmitter dynamics.[6] GABA:GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an important inhibitory neurotransmitter found in 30% to 40% of the brain synapses. It can help calm the brain by neutralizing the excitatory effects of glutamate. Research suggests that GABA supplementation or optimal GABA function in the brain positively affects neurological health, the body’s response to stress, mood, alpha and beta brain waves and sleep (7, 8, 9). 5-HTP:5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a precursor to serotonin. It is well-absorbed in the intestine and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier (10). Serotonin regulates many normal brain activities; influences other neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine; and is important in regulating mood and behavior, including food cravings. Research suggests that adequate levels of 5-HTP instill a sense of calmness and relaxation (11). L-Taurine:L-Taurine is a conditionally essential, neuroprotective amino acid that helps maintain cell volume and stabilize cell membranes in the brain. In addition to its roles in antioxidant activity and inflammatory cytokine modulation, taurine is important in the transmission of nerve impulses and overall nerve function. Oral supplementation increases GABA (12). L-Theanine:L-Theanine (Suntheanine®) is a naturally occurring, biologically active, free-form amino acid that provides relaxation support. Mechanisms of action appear to relate to its effects on neurotransmitters, excitatory amino acids activity, and alpha brain wave activity (13, 14, 15). Many practitioners utilize L-theanine to support overall relaxation without inducing drowsiness. When Does Dr. Jockers Use This Supplement? This is one of my go to supplements to help people who struggle with mood disorders and trouble sleeping. I have found it to be a life-saver for many of my anxiety and insomnia patients. I typically find low neurotransmitter activity via health history and clinical lab testing, such as the Organic acid test. If you feel that this supplement can be helpful for you, contact my team for more information. What Is The Recommended Dosage? Normal Dosage: 1 capsule – 1x daily (in evening if not sleeping) Advanced Dosage: 1–2 capsules – 1–2x daily (in evening if not sleeping) When introducing a new supplement, we recommend taking the lowest dose for 2-3 days. As tolerated, increase the dose until you have reached the recommended normal or advanced guidelines. Reduce to a tolerable dosage if adverse effects occur.
