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If you’ve ever heard the saying “it’s all in your head,” you’ll know that part of the truth isn’t that far from it. Inside the brain, there’s an intense and incessant network of communication happening every second — and behind it all are neurotransmitters. These little chemical messengers are essential for the functioning of our bodies and minds. But how do they really impact our lives?

In this article we will understand the concept and learn how neurotransmitters impact our lives. Check it out!

What are Neurotransmitters?

Neurotransmitters are substances that transmit signals between neurons in the brain and throughout the nervous system. So, when one neuron needs to communicate with another, it releases neurotransmitters that “travel” to the receptor cells, where they transmit specific information. This communication is essential for all body functions, from thinking and memory to physical movement.

How Do Neurotransmitters Work?

Neural communication occurs through synapses—the connection points between neurons. During this process, one neuron releases neurotransmitters into the synapse, which travel across the gap and bind to receptors on the next neuron. However, this process, while it may seem technical, is what allows you to feel emotions, perform movements, and even create memories.

Main Types of Neurotransmitters

Now that we understand the basics, let's explore the main neurotransmitters and their functions:

Dopamine:

Dopamine is a crucial neurotransmitter in the brain, belonging to the catecholamine family. It acts as a chemical messenger, facilitating communication between neurons and playing fundamental roles in several functions of the body.

One of the main functions of dopamine is its participation in the “reward system”, which regulates behaviors related to pleasure and motivation. Thus, when we perform pleasurable activities, such as eating or socializing, dopamine is released, generating feelings of well-being that encourage the repetition of these actions. In addition, dopamine is involved in the control of movements, mood regulation and cognitive functions, such as memory and attention.

Dopamine deficiency is associated with diseases such as Parkinson's, which affects motor skills, and psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia. Therefore, maintaining adequate dopamine levels is essential for physical and mental health.

Serotonin:

Serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine, is an essential neurotransmitter that plays a variety of roles in the body. Produced primarily in the gastrointestinal tract from the amino acid tryptophan, serotonin is often referred to as the “happy hormone” because of its role in regulating mood.

The main functions of serotonin include:

• Mood regulation: It contributes to feelings of well-being and happiness. Therefore, low serotonin levels are associated with depression and anxiety.
• Sleep control: Serotonin influences the sleep and wake cycles, helping to regulate deep sleep.
• Appetite and digestion: This neurotransmitter is also involved in regulating appetite and intestinal motility, affecting digestion.

Additionally, serotonin plays an important role in regulating body temperature and cognitive functions. Therefore, maintaining adequate serotonin levels is crucial for mental and physical health.

Noradrenaline and Adrenaline:

Norepinephrine and adrenaline are key hormones and neurotransmitters of the sympathetic nervous system, both derived from tyrosine. Although they are related, they perform distinct functions in the body.

Adrenaline, also known as epinephrine, is released primarily by the adrenal glands in response to stress. Its main function is to prepare the body for the “fight or flight” response by increasing the heart rate, dilating the airways, and mobilizing energy by increasing blood glucose levels. These reactions help the body to quickly deal with dangerous situations.

Noradrenaline, or norepinephrine, is predominantly a neurotransmitter in the central nervous system and also acts as a hormone. Its main function is to regulate “attention, focus and stress response”, as well as influencing mood and alertness. In this sense, it helps maintain blood pressure and blood circulation, contributing to the body’s response to stressful and alert situations.

Glutamate:

Glutamate is the most abundant excitatory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system (CNS) and plays a crucial role in communication between neurons. It is derived from the amino acid glutamine and is involved in a variety of brain functions, including learning, memory, and synaptic plasticity. It is estimated that more than half of the synapses in the brain use glutamate to transmit signals, making it essential for neuronal excitability and the regulation of cognitive processes.

The main function of glutamate is to facilitate synaptic transmission, promoting the activation of neurons and contributing to the strengthening of connections between them. This is essential for the formation of memories and the brain's adaptation to new information. However, excessive levels of glutamate can be neurotoxic, leading to neuronal damage and contributing to neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Therefore, a balanced release of glutamate is vital for brain health.

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid):

Gamma-aminobutyric acid, or GABA, is the main inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. In other words, it is crucial for regulating neuronal excitability, acting as a “brake” that reduces neuronal activity, promoting a calming effect on the brain. GABA is synthesized from glutamate and its action is mediated by specific receptors that, when activated, allow chloride ions to enter neuronal cells, resulting in hyperpolarization and inhibition of nerve impulse transmission.

The main function of GABA is to “promote relaxation and reduce anxiety”, contributing to emotional stability and stress control. This is because adequate levels of GABA are essential for restful sleep and maintaining mental balance. On the other hand, a deficiency of this neurotransmitter is associated with disorders such as insomnia and anxiety, making it an important target for pharmacological treatments and nutritional interventions aimed at improving mental health.

Acetylcholine:

Acetylcholine is a fundamental neurotransmitter in the nervous system, and was the first to be discovered. Produced from choline and acetyl-CoA, it plays a number of essential roles in the human body. Its main function is to “stimulate muscle contraction”, and is crucial at the neuromuscular junction, where it enables communication between motor neurons and muscle fibers.

In addition to its action on muscles, acetylcholine plays an important role in the “regulation of cognitive functions,” such as memory and learning. It also acts on the autonomic nervous system, influencing heart rate and promoting vasodilation, which results in a reduction in blood pressure. Above all, acetylcholine is vital for the proper functioning of the body; dysfunctions in its system can be related to neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's and myasthenia gravis, highlighting its importance for mental and physical health.

Endorphins:

Endorphins are neurotransmitters produced by the central nervous system, especially by the pituitary gland. Known as the “happiness hormone,” they play a key role in relieving pain and promoting well-being. Endorphins are released in response to stressful situations, pain, or pleasurable activities such as exercise, laughter, and socializing.

Their main function is to “act as a natural painkiller,” blocking the perception of pain and reducing feelings of stress and anxiety. This is because endorphins bind to opioid receptors in the brain, producing effects similar to those of drugs such as morphine. In addition, they are associated with improving mood, increasing self-esteem and regulating appetite.

The regular practice of physical activities It is one of the most effective ways to stimulate the release of endorphins, contributing to better mental and emotional health.

Oxytocin:

THE oxytocin, often called the “love hormone,” is a neurotransmitter produced in the hypothalamus and released by the neurohypophysis. This hormone plays a crucial role in several social and emotional functions, and is essential for establishing emotional bonds, especially between mothers and children. For example, during childbirth and breastfeeding, oxytocin promotes uterine contractions and milk ejection, strengthening the bond between mother and baby.

Furthermore, oxytocin is involved in the formation of social bonds and in promoting feelings of trust and empathy between individuals. It is released during physical interactions, such as hugs and caresses, contributing to the feeling of well-being and reducing stress levels by decreasing the production of cortisol.

Functions and Impacts of Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitters do much more than just transmit signals. They are essential for shaping and regulating our emotions, behavior, and even our thought patterns. Neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin are particularly well-known for their effects on mood, but each has a unique and important role in brain function.

Disturbances in the production and balance of neurotransmitters can cause a range of mental disorders. Depression, for example, is often associated with low serotonin levels. Similarly, an imbalance of dopamine is linked to conditions such as ADHD and addiction. Adjusting these levels is essential to maintaining good mental health.

Neurotransmitters also affect productivity, as they are linked to focus and concentration. Dopamine, for example, is what keeps us motivated. Optimal levels of this neurotransmitter are crucial for productivity and a sense of accomplishment.

Factors that Influence the Production and Release of Neurotransmitters

Neurotransmitter production is sensitive to factors such as:

• Diet: Certain foods contain amino acids essential for the production of neurotransmitters.
• Sleep: Sleep deprivation affects the synthesis of neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine.
• Physical Activity: Exercise releases endorphins and increases dopamine, improving mood.
• Stress: Chronic stress dysregulates neurotransmitters, causing problems such as anxiety.

Incorporating certain practices into your routine, such as eating foods rich in tryptophan, such as nuts and bananas (which are essential for serotonin) and practicing exercise and meditation, stimulate the release of well-being neurotransmitters.

Furthermore, adopting a positive mindset also impacts the production of neurotransmitters. Positive thoughts stimulate the release of neurotransmitters linked to well-being, such as serotonin and dopamine. Techniques such as positive visualization help maintain chemical balance.

Difference Between Neurotransmitters and Hormones

Neurotransmitters and hormones are both chemical messengers essential for communication between cells and systems in the body, but they differ in their functions, sites of action, and the way they transmit their messages. Let's look at the main differences:

1. Place of Production and Action

• Neurotransmitters: Neurotransmitters are produced mainly in the central nervous system, specifically in neurons, and they act in a localized manner. They transmit information from one neuron to another or from neurons to other cells, such as muscle cells. This process occurs in synapses — the space between two neurons or between a neuron and another cell.
• Hormones: Endocrine glands (such as the pituitary, thyroid and adrenal glands) are responsible for producing hormones, which are released into the bloodstream. Therefore, they travel to reach distant organs and cells, regulating broader and longer-lasting processes, such as metabolism, growth and mood.

2. Speed and Type of Response

• Neurotransmitters: They act very quickly, usually in milliseconds, and produce short-lived responses. They are ideal for immediate actions, such as muscle movement or the perception of pain.
• Hormones: Their action is slower, as they need to travel through the blood to their site of action. However, the hormonal effect tends to be more prolonged, regulating medium and long-term processes, such as the menstrual cycle, growth and metabolism.

3. Form of Communication

• Neurotransmitters: They are used by the nervous system for cell-to-cell communication, transmitting short, direct messages. They are released primarily at the synapse and reach nearby cells (synaptic communication).
• Hormones: They are used by the endocrine system and travel through the blood, reaching any cell with a specific receptor for that hormone. In other words, this is a more global and diffuse communication, regulating broad and integrated bodily functions (endocrine communication).

4. Examples

• Neurotransmitters: Dopamine, serotonin, GABA, acetylcholine.
• Hormones: Insulin, cortisol, estrogen, testosterone.

In short…

Keeping neurotransmitters in balance is essential for physical and emotional well-being. Therefore, adopting good habits, taking care of your diet and exercising are simple but powerful steps to ensure that our chemical messengers are always in harmony.

Recommended reading:

A question of balance: the relationship between hormones,
neurotransmitters and emotions – Sérgio Klepacz

Image: Freepik modified