 Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that allow signals to cross synapses to transmit information from a nerve cell or neuron to a target cell. Neurotransmitters coordinate behavior by stimulating an action or inhibiting an impulse. Some of the more familiar identified neurotransmitters include dopamine. Dopamine functions as both an inhibitory and excitatory neurotransmitter and is critical for memory and motor skills. Dopamine plays a role in behavior, learning, sleep, mood, focus, attention, immune help, and pleasurable reward. GABA As the major inhibitory neurotransmitter widely distributed through the brain, GABA is considered a significant mood modulator. When GABA levels are too low or GABA action is impaired, neurons can become overexcited, which can lead to restlessness, anxiety, and irritability. Glutamate, the most common neurotransmitter in the central nervous system, glutamate is an excitatory relative of GABA that is involved in most aspects of brain functioning, including cognition, learning, and memory. Glutamate is considered a major mediator of the excitatory signals, regulating the brain development as well as the elimination and formation of nerve synapses. Serotonin Present in the brain and digestive tract, inhibitory neurotransmitter serotonin has been identified as an important factor in mood, depression, anxiety, sleep quality, emotions, and the regulation of appetite and body temperature. Serotonin and balances are involved in depression, impulse behavior, sleep, and emotional disorders. Acetylcholine, ACH. This widely distributed excitatory neurotransmitter was the first neurotransmitter to be identified. ACH triggers voluntary muscle contractions, controls the heartbeat, and stimulates the excretion of certain hormones. Research suggests that ACH may be critical for sleep, attentiveness, sexuality, and memory. Norepinephrine Also known as noradrenaline and widely distributed throughout the body, norepinephrine acts as a neuromodulator optimizing brain performance. As part of the body's fight or flight response, norepinephrine quickly provides an accurate assessment of danger of stressful situations. Excessive amounts of this chemical, especially when no actual danger exists, can leave you anxious and hyperactive. Epinephrine Widely known as adrenaline, epinephrine is both a neurotransmitter and a hormone that is essential to metabolism, attention, mental focus, and our innate response to stress, fear, anger, panic, or excitement. Abnormal levels of epinephrine are linked to sleep disorders, anxiety, hypertension, and lowered immunity. The importance of neurotransmitters cannot be understated as they have a part in so many processes within the body. If you have any questions or would like to speak with a registered nurse about choosing the right vitamins and supplements for you, please call or email the professional supplement center and one of our knowledgeable staff will be happy to assist you.