The Impact of Neurotransmitters on Physical and Mental Behavior

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Impact of Neurotransmitters on Physical and Mental Behavior

The neurons inside of the central and peripheral nervous system are responsible for all human activity. A Neurotransmitter is a chemical that is released by a neuron's terminal button. Neurotransmitters have either an excitatory or an inhibitory effect on the other nearby neurons. Neurotransmitters are a very important part of the Central Nervous System (CNS) because they allow communication to occur inside neurons as well as between neurons. The four primary neurotransmitters are acetylcholine, dopamine, GABA, and serotonin.

Acetylcholine

Acetylcholine is the primary neurotransmitter secreted by efferent axons of the CNS (Carlson, 2011, p. 99). Acetylcholine is made of two substances; choline and acetate (Carlson, 2011, p. 100). Choline is a substance that comes from the breakdown of lipids. Acetate is the anion found in vinegar (Carlson, 2011, p. 100). This neurotransmitter is produced in the parietal lobe of the brain and is associated with our alpha brain waves, which control speed (Jordon, 2008, ¶ 23). Acetylcholine acts as a lubricant keeping neurons moist so that energy can pass through them. They are also part of the building blocks of myelin (Jordon, 2008, ¶23). This neurotransmitter makes all muscular movement possible, as well as plays a role in REM sleep (Carlson, 2011, p. 100). Acetylcholine, when the levels are balanced, will help a person to be able to think on their feet, and be creative, confident, and innovative. When a person's acetylcholine levels are balanced they are also more likely to have better interpersonal relationships (Jordon, 2008, ¶ 24). When these levels are too high the person can become very paranoid (Jordon, 2008, ¶ 25).

Acetyl...

... middle of paper ...

...o be the most important part of the human body. They bear a huge responsibility to keep the body going as it should. Research has shown that neurotransmitter deficiencies can contribute to many health problems in four categories: physical, personality, memory, and attention issues (Jordon, 2008, ¶8). When we think about keeping our bodies healthy the main focus is usually on our physical appearance and our body, people don't start paying attention to their brain until there is a problem (Jordon, 2008). It is important to keep our brains healthy as well so the rest of our health will not go to waste.

Works Cited

Carlson, N. (2011). Foundations of behavioral neuroscience (8th ed.). Boston, MA: Pearson.

Jordon, J.. (2008). Neurotransmitter Assessment. Create Vibrant Health. Retrieved January 21, 2012, from http://www.createvibranthealth.com/wp/?page_id=102

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