Naturopathic Physician in Portland, Oregon

In my research and practice, I have learned that a healthy brain and body increase the outcome potential for patients. Counseling and therapy combined with sensory-based therapies create a stronger foundation for healing. There is growing awareness that enhancing sensory capacity with yoga, soft tissue work, chiropractic, or acupuncture influences mental health.

But why is that? An important reason has to do with the “hormone-brain connection.” This concept takes into account the fact that hormones readily cross the blood-brain barrier, and that some hormones are directly synthesized in the brain. So, hormones and neurotransmitters have the potential to impact each other by stimulating receptor sites and tissue response.

That is why hormonal imbalances can be a problem. Imbalances may lead to brain degeneration and, therefore, mental and emotional deterioration.

For this reason, as a naturopath-specialist, I take an integrative approach and evaluate the influence of hormones in three ways. First, I consider hormones’ direct influences on the brain. Second, I consider how the brain influences the endocrine system. And finally, I look at overall health, including mental-emotional health.

The work with my patients includes a full assessment of their hormonal and neurotransmitter status. Hormonal testing is done with blood tests and a 24-hour urine hormonal panel. There are no laboratory tests that can measure neurotransmitter levels, so I use a “neurotransmitter assessment form” (NATF). This is a tool to identify clusters of symptoms related to the imbalance of the major neurotransmitters in the body. Imbalances in Serotonin, Acetylcholine, GABA and dopamine are all apparent after the assessment.

The NATF assesses symptoms related to abnormal stress, brain function, blood sugar regulation, and neurotransmitter function. The form focuses on mood, motivation, drive, emotional stability, ability to enjoy life, productivity, ability to accomplish life goals, anxiety, nervousness, insomnia, mental restlessness, memory, cognition and overall brain activity.

In order to help patients achieve positive outcomes, I provide proper nutritional support and recommend changes in lifestyle. Dietary habits to manage blood sugar disorders are especially important.

Treatment is based on natural compounds. For example, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, amino acids, and herbs all enhance neurotransmitter and brain function. When tests indicate the treatment, I also use bio-identical hormone replacement therapy.

Clients have used words like “delicate” and “natural” when describing the treatment. The results have been positive.

By Dr. Yasmin Chotocruz, © 2009