“Make no mistake: if you put in the proper effort, you can rebuild your health and reverse brain aging,” reports Dr. Eric R. Braverman.
“Using my unique approach, you will be able to work with your doctor to design an individual treatment program based on one or a combination of the seven types of therapies: medications, hormones, vitamins and supplements, diet, lifestyle, environment, and technology.”
In reviewing his work, it is refreshing to see that Dr. Braverman uses prescription drugs very carefully, and for as short a time as possible. Emphasis is placed on utilizing the more gentler of the seven therapies.
For example, diet is a significant component of overall health and wellness. We perhaps don’t realize that every single thing we put in our mouth first affects our brain. Dr. Braverman teaches that there are specific amino acids that affect each of the four neurotransmitters, which are dopamine, asetylcholine, GABA, and Serotonin.
“Once you identify a deficiency in one or more biochemicals, you need to consume the best foods for those specific neurotransmitters. For example, combine the recommendations for dopamine and acetylcholine for maximum brain power, or combine the GABA and serotonin diets for calming effects.”
In terms of hormones, Dr. Braverman emphasizes that ninety percent of all hormones are produced in or regulated by the brain. A key component of his therapies involves the use of natural, bioidentical hormones.
Lifestyle changes impact neurotransmitter function. For example, stress causes the body to produce more dopamine. A nature walk heightens GABA. Weight-bearing exercise builds dopamine. More aerobic activity such as running or swimming supports the other three neurotransmitters.
The environment significantly impacts the neurotransmitters. Lead decreases GABA. Cigarette smoking decreases dopamine. Fluorescent bulbs and aluminum in cookware decrease acetylcholine. Pesticides decrease serotonin.
Dr. Braverman teaches, “The next step on your path to wellness is to identify your primary nature and learn to work with the biochemical that governs it. Once you have defined your nature, you can begin the healing process.”
The next article in this series will focus on how to define your nature.
