It is no new news that we begin to lose our edge by the time we turn forty. The literature all seems to sing the same song. What is new news to me is the impact of biochemical deficiencies that creep up over time, deficiencies which can be prevented, according to the work of Eric R. Braverman, MD.
As we age, we learn to live with minor biochemical deficiencies. Braverman states, “If you notice you are losing your edge, you are probably experiencing deficiencies in your biochemistry. However, you can regain your edge by mastering your brain chemistry and putting yourself on the path back to health.”
What an empowering message: no, we don’t have to learn to live with problems related to biochemical deficiencies.
In reviewing the list of physical illness that can be avoided, there appear many that are commonly listed as symptoms of hormone imbalance:
- Arthritis
- Cholesterol elevation
- Cognitive thinking difficulty
- Depression
- Memory Loss
- Obesity
- Osteoporosis
- Sexual dysfunction
Why do these deficiencies happen?
1) As we age, our bodies produce fewer of the hormones that regulate neurotransmitter production, throwing off a balance so delicate it can easily be upset simply by changing the output of one hormone.
2) Imbalances are affected by the day-to-day stressors of life.
3) Imbalances are affected by the choices we make regarding what we eat.
Per Dr. Braverman, “Over time, our brain will not be able to compensate for these consistent, seemingly minor assaults, and we develop what I refer to as a sprained brain.”
The body is an amazing machine. It will work tirelessly to compensate for mistreatment. However, over time if the problems are not corrected, the body will show wear, similar to the analogy Braverman uses of unbalanced tires. Eventually, the car will become harder to steer, and the brakes will wear out faster. “Ignored, what would normally be just a simple matter of adjusting the wheel balance can lead to major expenses for new tires, brakes, shocks, and steering alignment.”
In this age of pharmaceutical dominance, when a symptom pops up, we tend to go to the doctor and something is given to relieve the symptom. But what about the root cause?
If not addressed, it won’t be long before another symptom pops up. The quick fix is not a fix at all. Instead of quick fixes, Braverman teaches us that there are effective treatments that can reverse the symptoms of what he calls the “sprained brain.” More about that tomorrow.
