The Chemistry Set in Your Head

Did you ever take an aspirin or other painkiller for a headache or muscle ache? If so, then you probably understand that chemicals can impact brain chemistry. In this case, they block pain centers or the nerves that carry pain signals to the brain. Additionally, some chemicals can directly alter our brain chemistry (e.g., ecstasy, angel dust (PCP), LSD, marijuana, etc.). But, these human manufactured chemicals are not the only chemicals that can alter brain chemistry.

Exercise is also a strong mediator of brain chemistry and mood. Articles and scientific evidence abound regarding how exercise can impact the production of such mood altering hormones as serotonin and endorphins. Diet is another way that brain chemistry is impacted, though perhaps less attended or understood than exercise or pills.

The dietary supplement (vitamin pills) industry has provided documentation showing that the nutrition values of most foods available at market today are significantly less than they were before agriculture became big business. For example, one company states that in order to get the equivalent nutrients from spinach today would require consuming 33 times as much spinach as in the 1940’s. Over the last several decades, pesticides and herbicides have been created to increase harvest yields while reducing labor. Farm machinery also bears little resemblance to the tractors and harvesters in use at the close of the Second World War.

I don’t sell vitamins. But, I have learned that when I take vitamins regularly, my mood is better, my thought processes are quicker and more reliable, I sleep better, and I generally have a better experience of life.

I urge everyone to experiment with different sets of vitamins, ranging from A to Zinc, and stick to taking them. Some companies out there offer convenience packs. While I am familiar with several different packs, the one that I have had the most noticeable impact from was the Double X vitamin packs from Amway/Quixtar. Again, I don’t sell vitamins, nor am I recruiting anyone to open a business.

What I AM doing is urging everyone to find effective, safe means of altering their brain chemistry in a positive manner. I have wisdom in following the standard “get healthy, stay healthy” practices. Some are: eat well (less junk food and carbs, more fruits and vegetables), drink lots of water, get plenty of rest and regular exercise. In addition, I urge everyone to take advantage of a great way to take positive control of your brain chemistry. You’ll be happy you did!