Circulating nutrients and neurotransmitter synthesis

摘要

Meals, snacks, and certain purified nutrients can affect the brain and behavior by changing the rate at which neurons synthesize and release neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine. Consumption of tryptophan or high- carbohydrate meals increases brain levels and release of serotonin; this neurotransmitter has sedative-like effects and decreases appetite for carbohydrate. High-protein meals raise serum tryptophan but paradoxically inhibit its brain uptake, thereby decreasing brain serotonin levels and increasing appetite for carbohydrate. Tyrosine enhances release of catecholamine neurotransmitters and may be useful for depression and Parkinson's disease. Choline or lecithin increase acetylcholine synthesis and release; their consumption can improve tardive dyskinesia, and they are being tested for possible effects in Alzheimer's disease. The unanticipated but well established effects of foods and nutrients on neurotransmitters may lead to improved treatment and prevention of disease, and may lead to future understanding of how some metabolic diseases cause neurological and behavioral disturbances.