Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers used by the nervous system to relay information from one nerve to another.
Optimal neurotransmitter balance is required to maintain proper
health. Imbalances can cause the brain and the body to be over- or
under-stimulated, producing neurological or psychological symptoms.
An Unmatched Collection of Tests
ZRT has determined that while parent neurotransmitters are helpful in
assessing precursor availability, interpreting results based on those
levels alone can result in undertreatment, treatment of the wrong part
of the system, or overtreatment with direct precursors. It’s only by
looking at the parent neurotransmitters with downstream metabolites that
you can tell whether there is a systemic pattern.
Given the importance of these levels to correct interpretation of
neurotransmitter results and subsequent treatment plans, ZRT Laboratory
includes a range of 14 neurotransmitters and metabolites in its testing.
This essential collection of tests is available only from ZRT – and not
from any other lab.
Blog: Monoamine Metabolites – An Essential Factor In Understanding Neurotransmitters
How a Dysregulated Nervous System Impacts Health
Genetics, environment, chemicals and nutritional deficiencies are a
few factors that can impact neurotransmitter production. Once out of
balance, the nervous system begins to compensate – which, in time, can
lead to neurological or psychological symptoms.
Some of the more common psychological conditions today are known to
be accompanied by neurotransmitter imbalances. However, it’s also
possible for individuals to present with similar symptoms yet have
unique foundational imbalances. Testing helps clarify these root issues.
Common neurotransmitter-related causes of health issues often involve the following scenarios:
Chronic Fatigue -An imbalance between excitatory and inhibitory neurotransmitters can lead to persistent fatigue.
Impulsivity -GABA, Dopamine and Serotonin are three chemical messengers commonly linked to disorders like ADD, ADHD & OCD.
Insomnia -Imbalances in Glutamate, Histamine, Dopamine, GABA and Serotonin are often linked to sleep disturbances and insomnia.
PMS or PMDD -Imbalances in Serotonin, Dopamine, Norepinephrine and GABA are often
involved in cases of PMDD (pre-menstrual dysphoric disorder) and severe
PMS.
A Dynamic Duo: Testing Hormones with Neurotransmitters
In the neurological system, hormones are synergistic with
neurotransmitters – modulating their production, signaling and
metabolism. Because of this complex interplay, testing hormones and
neurotransmitters together is an ideal way to generate a more precise
clinical assessment.
This combined testing gives practitioners a diagnostic edge over the
traditional psychological inventory and offers the advantage of zeroing
in on which therapies are best suited for individual patients – cutting
down on the time-consuming process of trial-and-error for identifying
treatment options.
Testing Elements with Neurotransmitters
Heavy metals are damaging to brain health. They disrupt
neurotransmitter function and create oxidative stress that is
detrimental to nerve cells, contributing to mood disorders, poor memory
and dementia. Identifying exposure to heavy metals may be key to
assessing and treating mood disorders and preventing neurodegenerative
diseases.
In contrast, nutritional elements are generally protective for brain
health. Lithium acts directly on the brain by slowing the progression of
dementia and stabilizing mood, while elements like iodine and selenium
act indirectly by supporting healthy thyroid and brain function.
Most Complete Neurotransmitter Testing
ZRT is the only lab to offer a 24-hour equivalent in four easy
collections – resulting in a more accurate assessment of individual
neurochemistry.
Most Convenient Method for Urine Testing
ZRT’s dried urine method offers a discreet, at-home testing
alternative and eliminates the hassles of all-day jug urine collection.
Patients collect urine on a filter strip up to four times during the
day. Dried strips are shelf-stable for 30 days and easy to mail back to
the lab for analysis.
