Mood Food ES™ combines the same vitamins, minerals, and amino acids as first generation Mood Food™. Modification in quantities of ingredients, plus the addition of Suntheanine®, vitamin C, and selenium, further enhance synthesis of chemical messengers that support calmness, a healthy mood, and a healthy nervous system.
- Supports Nervous System Health*
- Supports a Healthy Mood*
- Supports Synthesis of Neurotransmitters, Including Serotonin*
- May Help Reduce Carbohydrate CravingsDiscussion
Vitamins, minerals, amino acids, and other nutrients are necessary for the synthesis of neurotransmitters, healthy nerve transmission, healthy brain chemistry, and normal muscle contraction/relaxation. Components of Mood Food ES address each of these areas.* Methylation is the addition of a methyl group (a carbon atom with three hydrogen atoms attached) to proteins, enzymes, chemicals, DNA, or amino acids like homocysteine. It is a vital aspect of
nervous system health and is necessary for the synthesis of neurotransmitters. Mood Food ES provides key nutrients involved
in the methylation pathway, such as selenomethionine; vitamin B6 as pyridoxal 5’-phosphate; vitamin B12 as the readily bioavailable form, methylcobalamin; and folate as bioactive Quatrefolic (5-MTHF glucosamine salt) and calcium folinate.[1] Pyridoxine nutritional status selectively modulates central production of serotonin and GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid)—neurotransmitters that are involved in physical pain perception and mental wellness.*[2]
Magnesium is provided as Albion TRAACS glycinate chelate, a specific form demonstrated to support intraneuronal magnesium sufficiency.[3] As a cofactor for over 325 enzymes in the body, magnesium has a multitude of actions, including a calming effect on the nervous system and regulation of muscle contraction. Laboratory, animal, and epidemiological research suggests a link between magnesium sufficiency and a healthy mood and calm demeanor.*[4,5] Vitamin C participates in the enzyme activity of two copper- dependent monooxygenases that are important in the synthesis of norepinephrine and serotonin. In addition, vitamin C regulates the activity of some neurons within the brain that affect neurotransmitter membrane receptor synthesis and neurotransmitter dynamics.*[6] GABA (gamma-aminobutyric acid) is an important inhibitory neurotransmitter found in 30% to 40% of the brain synapses. It helps calm the brain by neutralizing the excitatory effects of glutamate. Research suggests that GABA supplementation or optimal GABA
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function in the brain positively affects neurological health, the body’s response to stress, mood, alpha and beta brain waves, and sleep.*[7-9] 5-HTP (5-hydroxytryptophan) is a precursor to serotonin. It is
well-absorbed in the intestine and easily crosses the blood-brain barrier.[10] Serotonin regulates many normal brain activities; influences other neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and dopamine; and is important in regulating mood and behavior, including food cravings. Research suggests that adequate levels of 5-HTP instill a sense of calmnesand relaxation.*[11]
L-Taurine is a conditionally essential, neuroprotective amino acid that helps maintain cell volume and stabilize cell membranes in the brain. In addition to its roles in antioxidant activity and inflammatory cytokine modulation, taurine is important in the transmission of nerve impulses and overall nerve function. Oral supplementation increases GABA.*[12] L-Theanine (Suntheanine®) is a naturally occurring,
biologically active, free-form amino acid that provides relaxation support. Mechanisms of action appear to relate to its effects on neurotransmitters, excitatory amino acids activity, and alpha brain wave activity.[13-15] Many practitioners utilize L-theanine to support overall relaxation without inducing drowsiness.*