343: How to Balance Neurotransmitters Naturally With Dr. Ann-Marie Barter

Today we’re about to get an amazing education in neurotransmitters, those very important chemical messengers in our brains. Balancing neurotransmitters through natural methods is an important part of Dr. Ann-Marie Barter’s work in her practice in Colorado. Dr. Ann uses a combination of functional blood chemistry analysis, nutrition, applied kinesiology, and other natural remedies with a functional medicine approach to help people with a host of brain/body issues. While we may think of neurotransmitters in terms of brain health, when they get out of balance they can also affect the thyroid, blood sugar, gut health, hormones, and so many other issues. Let’s get started as there’s so much to cover, including practical ways that you can start at home to optimize your neurotransmitter levels, reduce stress, and feel better! Episode Highlights With Dr. Ann-Marie Barter What neurotransmitters are and the areas of health they affect (hint: most things!) Kinds of neurotransmitters, especially serotonin and dopamine, and how they work in the body Why addressing dopamine levels may help you with sugar cravings and other addictive habits Signs you might have low dopamine Why diabetes should not be the only measure of having a blood sugar problem What processed foods can do to your neurotransmitters How to check your glucose at home (and why you’d want to) What a simple elimination diet can do for brain balance How to know if you have a serotonin imbalance Important things to know about SSRIs and antidepressants Key vitamins for brain and neurotransmitter health And more! Resources We Mention Dr. Ann’s practice The Fearless Health Podcast RealTime Lab (mold test) Why Isn’t My Brain Working? by Dr. Datis Kharrazian Dying to Be Me: My Journey from Cancer, to Near Death, to True Healing by Anita Moorjani Toxic: Heal Your Body from Mold Toxicity, Lyme Disease, Multiple Chemical Sensitivities, and Chronic Environmental Illness by Neil Nathan MD Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself by Joe Dispenza More From Wellness Mama 252: How to Activate Peak Brain Performance With Neu