Q: According to a new poll released by the National Sleep Foundation, "One third of Americans are losing sleep over the state of the US economy and other personal financial concerns..." Does this have major impact on health?
A: Absolutely. Interrupted sleep and non-restful sleep build stress, and stress is a heavy contributor to illness.
Q: The study goes on to state, "The number of people reporting sleep problems has increased 13% since 2001. In the past eight years, the number of Americans who sleep less than six hours a night jumped from 13% to 20%, and those who reported sleeping eight hours or more dropped from 38% to 28%." What is going on here?
A: Stress interferes with sleep, and then poor sleep turns around and creates stress. Over time, this can become a vicious circle. People then resort to medications, and those medications only mask the problem. In addition, the medicines have side effects.
Q: So are there personal solutions, or do we have to hope the economy gets better?
A: There are several powerful solutions.. For example, disrupted sleep is linked to levels of neurotransmitters in the nervous system. These chemical messengers need to be operating at optimum capacity. When neurotransmitters are fully functioning, we:
· Fall asleep at night with ease
· Sleep longer hours with fewer interruptions
· Readily fall back asleep if awakened
· Urinate less at night
· Experience less anxiety and heart palpitations
· Reduce or eliminate hot flashes and night sweats
· Awaken energetic and ready to go!
Q: Is there a test to measure these neurotransmitter levels?
A: Yes. At SCICN, we conduct those tests, which begin with a very simple home-collection of urine. (And now, most insurance companies cover the cost of the test. All PPO (non-HMO) insurance programs will cover this cost as long as you've met your deductible. Medicare and military insurance also pay for this test.)
Q: How can people get the neurotransmitter test?
A: Just call us at SCICN and ask for it. 800-608-5602 or 760-448-2722.
Q: Once the test is done, how can too low or too high levels of neurotransmitters be normalized?
A: We create a protocol of nutritional supplements and specific foods to help balance the brain chemistry. The protocol is tailored to each person's needs, based on the test results. It is important to realize that your brain chemicals are made from nutrients, so when you supply what's missing, you can come into balance.
Q: Aside from the neurotransmitter protocol, what else can be done to improve sleep?
A: The other big factor is, of course, stress itself. One cause that many people overlook is hormone levels. The adrenal glands control stress levels.
Q: Is this something that can be dealt with in a specific way?
A: Yes. We do it all the time. We do tests to discover adrenal hormone levels (cortisol and DHEA), as well as male and female hormones. We then customize bio-identical creams for our patients, so they get what they need. We help, in this way, to reduce stress levels.
Q: The hormone test can be done at home?
A: Yes. It is a simple at-home saliva collection kit.
Q: So there are two major tests and two major protocols that can help improve sleep. Neurotransmitters and hormones.
A: That's right. These protocols make a very positive impact on the body getting the rest it needs, so it can repair metabolism and build up energy levels.
Jon Rappoport is now writing the SCICN newsletters, based on the research of Dr. Laura Thompson. Laura's husband, Jon has had a 25-year career as a health and political reporter.
From the Desk of Dr. Laura Thompson |
Thank heavens for neurotransmitter testing! As a 40-year insomniac, I can say that my sleep has immensely improved since I started working on my neurotransmitters. I found that I was serotonin deficient, and although many people with that deficiency might be depressed, that wasn't my issue. I had sleep problems since I was 12. I was a worrier. I just got used to living that way.
When I found that my dopamine levels were high compared to my serotonin, it made a lot of sense that I had high anxiety. So, too bad my parents didn't know about neurotransmitter testing and nutritional supplements that help to balance sleep. But hey, such is progress! It just keeps getting better and better. My patients will attest to that.
From the Desk of Donna Loftin |
No question, stress and lack of sleep are the first dominos that fall on the degenerative path. As a certified biofeedback specialist I've seen how quickly our patients are able to regain health when they add the use of custom homeopathic remedies to help balance emotions and relax the nervous system.
Don't forget about stress and children; if we have it, they have it. We have quite a few SCICN Kids who have had their lives dramatically changed by using custom remedies - and they are easy to take. Biofeedback sessions for children in stressful situations are a great alternative to medication as well.
My personal favorite is a customized Rescue Calm. It really helps me get through those days of situational stress, kids, life, economy, etc. On some days, it's my best friend. |
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Dr. Laura Thompson, Family Nutritionist and Naturopathic Endocrinologist has a nationwide practice by phone, and locally in Carlsbad, California. Call for in-home testing info, 800-608-5602.
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. The products suggested, are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Please check with your health care practitioner for your best health options.
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