SINGLE DOSE OF ANTIDEPRESSANT CHANGES THE BRAIN

A single dose of antidepressant is enough to produce dramatic changes in the functional architecture of the human brain. Brain scans taken of people before and after an acute dose of a commonly prescribed SSRI (serotonin reuptake inhibitor) reveal changes in connectivity within three hours, say researchers who report their observations in the Cell Press journal Current Biology on September 18.

"We were not expecting the SSRI to have such a prominent effect on such a short timescale or for the resulting signal to encompass the entire brain," says Julia Sacher of the Max Planck Institute for Human Cognitive and Brain Sciences.

While SSRIs are among the most widely studied and prescribed form of antidepressants worldwide, it's still not entirely clear how they work. The drugs are believed to change brain connectivity in important ways, but those effects had generally been thought to take place over a period of weeks, not hours.

The new findings show that changes begin to take place right away. Sacher says what they are seeing in medication-free individuals who had never taken antidepressants before may be an early marker of brain reorganization.

Study participants let their minds wander for about 15 minutes in a brain scanner that measures the oxygenation of blood flow in the brain. The researchers characterized three-dimensional images of each individual's brain by measuring the number of connections between small blocks known as voxels (comparable to the pixels in an image) and the change in those connections with a single dose of escitalopram (trade name Lexapro).

Their whole-brain network analysis shows that one dose of the SSRI reduces the level of intrinsic connectivity in most parts of the brain. However, Sacher and her colleagues observed an increase in connectivity within two brain regions, specifically the cerebellum and thalamus.

The researchers say the new findings represent an essential first step toward clinical studies in patients suffering from depression. They also plan to compare the functional connectivity signature of brains in recovery and those of patients who fail to respond after weeks of SSRI treatment.

Understanding the differences between the brains of individuals who respond to SSRIs and those who don't "could help to better predict who will benefit from this kind of antidepressant versus some other form of therapy," Sacher says. "The hope that we have is that ultimately our work will help to guide better treatment decisions and tailor individualized therapy for patients suffering from depression."

Healthy Life Style Changes To Supplement The Pain Pills For Neuropathy

Today's post from authorityremedies.com (see link below) is an attractively presented list of tips for improving your diet to reduce neuropathy symptoms. The author calls them 'home remedies' which means that they are non-pharmaceutically-produced options but in effect the article is about life style changes and dietary improvement. Now hard-core neuropathy patients may already have moved on, preferring to trust in their pill cocktails and supplements to reduce their horrible symptoms but there's nothing wrong in reading this and making sensible changes as a result. There is nothing here that is bad for you, or fake, or new age mumbo-jumbo. Instead, it's a sensible list of improvements you can make from which you will probably feel better. However, don't expect overnight results - these are tips for the long term and just as with supplements and many medications, you need a few months before you may notice any improvements in your situation. It's a question of choices: do you prefer what seem to be quick-fix vitamin and supplement pills, plus chemical analgesics; or are you prepared to supplement those options, with healthy living options? The choice is yours. Either way, you can't be worse off by following most of these suggestions.

Top Natural Home Remedies for Neuropathy – 15 Useful Treatments
Last Updated: March 2, 2017 by Hannah Hall

Do you find the term “neuropathy” familiar? In fact, you may experience it without knowing its medical term.

In this article, Authority Remedies is about to equip you with some information about it and more importantly, top 15 natural home remedies for neuropathy.

What is Neuropathy?

Neuropathy refers to the pain and weakness in some specific areas that result from damages in the peripheral nerves[1][2].

The most common affected areas are hands and feet, but it does not diminish the possibility that other areas can be affected.

Neuropathy can lead to loss of felling, pain and controlling muscles failure.

What Causes Neuropathy?

Numerous studies have concluded that nerve damage is one of the leading causes of neuropathy. This triggers some other issues, including infection, trauma, exposure to toxic substances or metabolic matters.

In addition to nerve damges, diabetes is widely known as one of the contributing factors to neuropathy as well.

Those who have already suffered from some diseases, such as diabetes or problems relating to the liver or kidney, are more likely to endure neuropathy.

Besides, our daily lifestyle matters as well. If you are one of those who consume an excessive amount of alcohol, neuropathy will probably happen.

Other causes can include:
The lack of Vitamin: Vitamin B, B1, B12 and B6 are crucial for nerve health. Niacin and vitamin E also play an important role in improving nerve health as well.
Infections: several viral and bacterial infections can partly contrinute to the disease, such as shingles, Lyme disease, hepatitis C, HIV/AIDS or Epstein-Barr virus.
Genetic Disorders: They consist of Charcot-Marie-Tooth and amyloid polyneuropathy dieases.
Pressure or Injury on the nerves: Trauma, like sport injuries or motor vehical accients can pose a threate to the nerves. Hence, it can be made to contract pressure from the usage of crutches, motions that are repeated for several times or acting in an unusual position.

Once again, neuropathy has close connection with the deficiency of nutrients, say, vitamins B which are believed to be crucial for the well-beings of the nerves.

Read also: Top Superfoods for Diabetics

Is Neuropathy Contagious?

The answer is no.

Neuropathy is, actually, not contagious and it cannot spread from a person to a person like the way that a bacteria or virus can do.
What are the Symptoms of Neuropathy?

Although the severity may vary among sufferers, the painful feeling in hands or feet is the most common neuropathy symptoms.

Do not think that the pain is not a serious problem as it may prevent you from even touching something.

In several severe cases, damages can have significant effects on the autonomic nerves and it may lead to some changes in the blood pressure.

As a consequence, you may experience dizziness or lightheadedness.
How To Treat Neuropathy

There are lots of people who can find relief by using a great number of home remedies for neuropathy.

Neuropathy is not a fatal disease and you can get rid of it immediately at home by making some changes in diet.

However, when the symptoms do not disappear after many days, you had better have yourself examined by doctors so as to come up with the best treatment.

Following are top 15 natural home remedies for neuropathy that enable you to cope with this problem simply without spending too much money or effort.

1. Lavender

Lavender is one of the best natural home remedies for neuropathy thanks to its natural pain-killing quality.

Besides, it is also strongly anti-inflammatory, which means that lavender can effectively prevent inflammation and swelling in the nerves[3][4].

The aromatic smell of lavender is a great plus since it enables you to relax and get rid of anxiety.



How to apply:

You should take advantage of lavender oil. Get some drops of the oil and rub it over the areas affected by neuropathy to get rid of its pain quickly. You can repeat applying 2-3 times on a daily basis.

2. Soy


For those who suffer from neuropathy due to nutritional deficiency, soy is one of the most suitable natural remedies for neuropathy for them.

It is full of vitamin B6 that is believed to deal with the pain caused by neuropathy effectively[5].

When consumed, soy can stimulate the production of serotonin in the nervous system. This can make you become happier and of course, painless.

You can use soy products in everyday meals. Soy milk is a great recommendation too.

3. Rosemary



With antifungal, anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial qualities, rosemary is a great home remedies for neuropathy[6].

It can eliminate the painful feeling almost instantly and limit the muscle spasms. Another benefit of rosemary is to strengthen your respiratory system.

To make the application easier, you should purchase rosemary oil. Rub several drops of it over the painful areas in your feet or hands a few times per day to get rid of neuropathy.

4. Peppermint



Known as a natural pain killer, peppermint proudly takes a spot in the list of top natural cures for neuropathy.

Its nutrients can help improve the blood circulation inside the body and the more blood is carried to the feet and hands, the less painful you feel[7].

In addition, it is super effective in putting the muscle spasms under control.

You can consume the tea from mixing peppermint leaves with boiling water. Or if you do not have much time, simply rub the leaves over the areas affected by neuropathy.

5. Broccoli



Apart from vitamin B, you need other kinds of vitamin to speed up the neuropathy treatment.

For example, vitamin C which is crucial for a strong immune system can protect your nerve from being inflamed[8][9].

Therefore, broccoli that is rich of vitamin C can be considered as one of the most effective neuropathy home remedies and you are strongly recommended to bring it more frequently in daily cooking.

You may be surprised at Benefits of Broccoli.

6. Banana

Another great source of vitamin B6 is banana – one of the best natural home remedies for neuropathy.

There are many well-known advantages in a small banana and now, you are suggested to consume it several times per day to get rid of neuropathy and its annoying symptoms.

7. Mushroom



Vitamin B9 also plays a vital role in the efforts to get rid of neuropathy.

Also known as folic acid, this kind of vitamin B can raise the number of red blood cells, protect the nerves from being damaged and foster the strength of your muscles[10].

With all of these qualities, foods that can provide much vitamin B9 can become great natural home remedies for neuropathy.

Undeniably, mushrooms are perfect choices for you.

8. Cayenne Pepper

The presence of capsaicin is one of the most outstanding features of cayenne pepper that is introduced as one of the best peripheral neuropathy natural treatment.

This compound is very powerful in dealing with the pain in the nerves.

On the other hand, pepper can provide a considerable amount of vitamins A and C to help boost your immunity in general.

Find out more top 1o incredible ways that cayenne pepper benefits you.

9. Oatmeal

Oatmeal is known as an excellent natural treatment for neuropathy.

Some grains can become the best natural home remedies for neuropathy because they contain much glycemic which is claimed to affect the level of blood sugar significantly.

One of the most common grains, oatmeal, is more suitable for those who suffer from diabetes.

It can help them get rid of neuropathy and its irritating symptoms quickly.

10. Tomato



When you know that tomato is full of vitamin C, B6 and B9, you will not be doubtful whether it is among great natural remedies for neuropathy in feet and hands or not.

You can get all of these necessary nutrients for the neuropathy treatment just from a single small tomato. It is really a bargain, isn’t it?

If you are interested in tomato, please read Health Benefits of Tomatoes.

11. Avoid Alcohol

As mentioned before, alcoholim is a contributor to neuropathy.

After reading what causes neuropathy, do you realize how harmful alcohol is to your nerves?

You are not completely forbidden to drink alcohol, but keep the habit of consuming little each time.

If you want to get rid of neuropathy as soon as possible, the best recommendation is to give up drinking for a period of time so that the healing process is accelerated.

Alcoholism can be treated in many different ways. Read more at: Home Remedies for alcoholism.

12. Walking

While the pain in the feet or hands makes you unwilling to perform some activities, it is important that you do some exercises to enhance the blood circulation in these areas.

It will help reduce the pain significantly.

About 30 minutes of walking on a daily basis can be much more beneficial than treatment which takes place for hours, right?

It is also a great way to relax your mind and strengthen your muscles.

13. Massage

Massage is one of the simplest and most popular natural home remedies for neuropathy as it can help you stop feeling painful immediately.

It is good for both the mind and they body at the same time.

Do not hesitate to go to your therapist right now to get rid of neuropathy quickly.

14. Fish



There is another type of vitamin B you need in the neuropathy treatment – B12. And fish is the best supplements for neuropathy because of vitamin B12.

This vitamin is important for the function of the nerves since it can stimulate the formation of red blood cells in your body.

On the other hand, fish is well-known to be super beneficial for our brain. The frequent consumption of fish can make us become more intelligent.

Please read Health Benefits of Salmon to know more about fish.

15. Avoid Smoking

If you are smoking right now, then give it up immidiately.

Like alcohol, smoking is one of the most dangerous factors that can worsen your condition immediately.

It stops the flow of blood from carrying blood to every part of the body and increases the possibility of your suffering from foot problems.

In brief, if you want to get rid of neuropathy as fast as possible, it is high time you gave up smoking.

Quitting smoking is no longer difficult with these simple but effective tips.

Read also: How To Quit Smoking

How To Prevent Neuropathy In The Future

To help prevent this condition, here are some of the handy-tips that you should take a consideration:
Always check your blood glucose levels
Consume a balanced and healthy diets, in which you need to take in enough minerals and vitamins that are neccessary for your body and nerve health. Bear in mind to include dairy products as well as low-fat meats into your diet and eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains on a regular basis.
Try not to eat too much saturated fat and added sugar
Consume less gluten-rich foods

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