Mycotoxins are toxic chemicals that are naturally produced by fungi like mould, which can infest buildings, vehicles, and foodstuffs.

The majority of mycotoxin exposures are through food ingestion or airborne exposure. In fact, mycotoxins are estimated to contaminate 25 percent of the world’s crops.

Damp climates, insect damage, and poor food storage facilitate the growth of mould and hence increase the likelihood and levels of mycotoxin contamination.

A recent study done by the Environmental European Commission earlier this year found that 5 percent of hazelnuts showed ochratoxin (a nephrotoxic, immunotoxic, and carcinogenic mycotoxin) contamination, while 10 percent of dried grapes, 20 percent of dried figs, and 50 percent of pistachios imported from Turkey showed aflatoxin contamination.

Aflatoxin exposure has been correlated with cancer, mental impairment, and liver damage – and is said to be responsible for 28 percent of all liver cancers in the world.

The Link Between Mycotoxins & Disease

Mycotoxins are absorbed in the mucosal epithelia in the airways and the gut and can affect many immune-related organs and cell types.

These interactions suppress immune functions. Multiple types of mycotoxins can cause a decrease in B cells, white blood cells, and hematopoietic stem cells. Exposure to mycotoxins decreases the amount of mature CD4+ cells and splenic T lymphocytes.

This exposure will also affect different groups of cytokines. IL-2 production and IL-2 receptors are decreased, but IL-17, IL10, TGF-a, and MIP-1b are all elevated. These changes in cytokine expression can lead to enhanced tissue damage to multiple different tissues and organs.

Common Mould Markers and their Effects

Aflatoxin

• Sources – Beans, Corn, Rice, Tree Nuts, Wheat, Milk, Eggs, Meal
• Impacts – Liver Damage, Mental Impairment, Abdominal Pain, Jaundice, Headache

Ochratoxin

• Sources – Food & Water-Damaged Buildings
• Impacts – Kidney Function, Neurological Symptoms, Immune Suppression

Sterigmatocystin

• Sources – Grains, Corn, Bread, Cheese, Coffee Beans, Dust from Damp Carpets
• Impacts – Liver Damage, Kidney Damage, Immune Suppression

Roridin E

• Sources – Water-Damaged Buildings, Contaminated Grain
• Impacts – Neurological Damage, GI Distress, Cardiovascular Problems, Endocrine Disruption, Immune Suppression

Verrucarin A

• Sources – Water-Damaged Buildings, Contaminated Grain
• Impacts – Vomiting, Weight Loss, Skin Dermatitis, Nervous Disorders, Reproductive Problems, Immunosuppression

Enniatin B

• Sources – Contaminated Grain
• Impacts – Weight Loss, Fatigue, Liver Damage

Zearalenone

• Sources – Wheat, Barley, Rice, Corn
• Impacts – Reproductive Effects (Disrupts Conception, Ovulation Foetal Development)

Gliotoxin

• Sources – Cereal Crops, Spices, Eggs, Milk, Meat
• Impacts – Neurological Symptoms, Immunosuppression, Liver Function

Mycophenolic Acid

• Sources – Citrus Fruits, Seeds, Grains
• Impacts – Immunosuppression, Birth Defects

Citronin

• Sources – Wheat, Rice, Corn, Flour
• Impacts – Kidney Damage, Immunosuppression

Chaetoglobosin A

• Sources – Water-Damaged Buildings
• Impacts – Gastrointestinal Disorders, Disrupted Cellular Division

How to Reduce and Remove Mycotoxins

Reducing exposure to mould remains the greatest priority when trying to minimise the effects of mycotoxins on the body. The main sources of exposure include:

Food

If foods are the main source of exposure then removing culprit foods is the primary method to reduce overall mycotoxin exposure. Testing for the exact mycotoxins can verify if food is the primary source of mould exposure and which foods, in particular, may be of concern.

Lifestyle & Environment 

An individual’s environment can be one of the greatest contributors to their mycotoxin load. Finding and removing any sources of mould in the house, transport and any other places can often be the first step to reducing the impact of mould.

Testing and Treatment for Mould

Testing 

Testing remains the most accurate way to determine the presence of mould, alongside exactly what mould markers are present. Knowing the mould markers can narrow down the source of exposure and help choose the most accurate treatment strategies for that individual.

Strategies to reduce Mould

• Hydration – Mycotoxins need adequate levels of water to be fully eliminated from the body, regardless of whether they’re being removed by endogenous detoxification processes, exercise and sweating or supplements.
• Binders – Due to their inert and non-reactive nature, binders can be the supplement of choice for individuals with mould exposure who may also be experiencing allergies and sensitivities to products. Binders can preferentially adsorb and eliminate mycotoxins without interacting with nutrients, the microbiome and other cells in the body.
• Anti-Inflammatory and Antioxidant nutrients – As the main impacts of mycotoxins include suppression of immunity, alongside an increase in inflammation and oxidative stress, anti-inflammatory and antioxidant herbs and nutrients can be specifically beneficial for mycotoxin exposure.
• Exercise and Sweating – Sweating and movement can be one of the most effective ways to eliminate mycotoxins.

Functional & Genetic Testing

DNA - MTHFR - HORMONAL - HAIR

Functional Medical Testing

Functional medical testing investigates and covers a variety of areas such as functional, biochemical, nutritional, metabolic and hormonal status of a patient. It is advantageous by providing a greater understanding of the patient’s health and helps to identify issues which provide explanation as to why the patient isn’t improving based on conventional treatment. It enables practitioners to understand the root cause of disease more.

• Bloods Tests
• Saliva Testing [including hormone saliva tests]
• Stool Analysis
• Urine Tests [including urinary iodine and Pyrrole testing]
• Hair Mineral Analysis
• Heavy Metal Testing
• Blood Pressure
• Blood Glucose
• Metabolic Testing
• Food Allergy Testing
• Thyroid Testing
• Iridology
• Hair, Skin, Nail and Tongue Diagnosis

Specialty Tests

• Lyme Disease & Co-infections
• MTHFR and genetic conditions
• Complex thyroid and hormonal panels
• Pyrrole Disorder
• Biochemical testing for Autism - Adhd and many others

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• A simple way to book a consultation with Benjamin and Services available on this page.
• Book and Visit Benjamin in Maitland NSW
• Local & International Consultations are very Popular. (Bloods Analysis not included)
• All Sessions are Private and Held in the most respectful Confidence.

A Little About Iridology

Do you see eye to eye with your doctor? If he or she practises iridology, you may.
Practitioners of iridology may use it to assess the tissue strength of the various organs and systems in the body. It is both the science and the art of analyzing body conditions through an examination of the iris, the coloured part of the eye.
Many people consider iridology a diagnostic tool, but that is not how I employ it. Iridology does not diagnose disease. But it does help determine the condition of various tissues and organs, and more importantly, it assists with directing questions and dialogue with our clients.
Read More

A Cosmopolitan Field

Practitioners from around the world have spent the past century examining the correlation between certain iris features and human psychology and physiology. I have attended conferences on iridology in Germany, where more than 6,000 medical doctors discussed their use of iridology in its various forms.

Iridology is also widely used by herbalists and homeopathic doctors to assist them in discovering an individual’s predispositions to various health conditions. One could spend a lifetime studying the iris of the eye, and many scholars have.

• Poor digestion/poor food combining.
• Weakened immune system.
• Vitamin deficiencies
• Bowel and Liver toxicity
• Dehydration
• Stress
• Increased cholesterol & crystal formations.
• Poor circulation.
• Heavy metal accumulation.
• Presence of parasites / fungi / bacteria.
• And much more ………….

Iridology is a procedure of analyzing the eyes in greater detail to gather information about the terrain, the immune system and the nutritional status of the patient.

It usually takes approx. 30 – 45 minutes to perform the test.

Depending on the irregularities found in Iris analysis can reveal the following:

• Immune System Function
• Early Recognition of Cardiovascular Risk Factors
• Essential Fatty Acid Deficiencies
• Vitamin & Mineral Deficiencies
• Digestive Disorders
• Low Iron/Anaemia
• Atherosclerotic Plaque
• Allergies Tendencies
• Hormonal Imbalances
• Uric Acid Crystal & Risk for Gout
• Kidney/Liver/Spleen Stress
• Chemical/Heavy Metal Toxicity
• Degenerative Disorders
• Parasites
• Dehydration
• Poor Blood Circulation
• Clotting Abnormalities
• Bacterial Imbalances
• Yeast/Fungal Tendencies

A True Holistic Tool

Iridology provides a picture of the state of the whole body at a glance. This view helps determine if one area of the body is negatively affecting another. For example, a tipped uterus could be caused by a prolapsed transverse colon which, in turn, might be caused by a weak lower back and abdominal muscles. If we knew only that the person had a tipped uterus, our suggestions for improving their health might be focused in the wrong area. To be able to see a pathway for such problems takes a thorough knowledge of the eye chart and plenty of practice.

Another form of analyzing the iris is called Rayid. While iridology focuses on the physical characteristics of the body, Rayid focuses on the emotional, mental, and even spiritual aspects of the individual. By combining iridology with other tools, a well-trained prac-titioner can paint a thorough picture of health issues facing a person.

Window on Health

Iridology charts are used by trained practitioners to aid in developing a picture of a patient’s overall state of health. Each colour, pattern, fibre, and defect in the iris is thought to have a reflex correlation with a disease manifestation or organ system malfunction. The left eye is believed to correspond with the left side of the body and the right eye to the right side.

In this chart of the iris of the right eye, developed by Dr. Bernard Jensen, a well-known American iridologist, the upper quadrant represents the higher organs while the lower organs are represented at the bottom.

In the Beginning

The use of iridology is mentioned in the writings of Hippocrates (4th century BC) and in those of the revived medical school of Salerno (11th century AD). It was rediscovered by Dr. Ignatz von P?ely of Hungary and Pastor Nils Liljequist of Switzerland, who both claim to have discovered it independently in 1857.

Dr. Bernard Jensen is recognized as making iridology popular in North America, beginning in the late 1940s. Dr. Jensen was my mentor and I studied with him and worked at his Hidden Valley Health Ranch in Escondido, California, in the early 1970s.

Who benefits from seeing Benjamin?

• People who have tried to heal chronic physical or emotional/mental imbalance and are seeking a new approach.
• People who want to feel more integrated and whole in their lives.
• People who want to help a family member.
• Those who are looking for someone with a gentle approach in assisting you to a greater understand of personal health.
• Benjamin also works with some General Practitioners and would sometimes refer patients for bloods and or other medical needs.

Book your Appointment Now

Benefits of Visiting Benjamin May Help with Some of the Following.

• Clarity
• Peace of Mind
• Acceleration of your personal evolution
• Healing of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Healing of Depression
• Healing of Chronic Pain including injuries
• Help with Emotional Problems including stress & anxiety
• Healing of Many Chronic Diseases
• Accelerated Recovery after surgery
• More Life Energy in your body and mind

Highlights

1. Oxalates are a potentially harmful compound found in many foods (such as leafy greens) otherwise known as healthy.
2. Too-high levels may lead to a range of conditions including kidney stones and systemic inflammation.

Introduction

Green smoothie for breakfast, tofu salad with nuts for lunch, and baked potatoes and grains for dinner. As healthy as this meal plan sounds, there is one potentially harmful compound that such a meal plan is extremely high in – and that is oxalates.

What are Oxalates?

Oxalates and their acidic form oxalic acid is one of the most acidic compounds in the human body. Found as part of cellular reactions, a by-products of yeasts and fungus and other microorganisms, oxalates also enter the body through food.

When do Oxalates Become an Issue?

Oxalates may become an issue for those with a diet high in plant-based foods. Oxalates can form crystals throughout the body including in bones, joints, blood vessels, lungs, thyroid, and even the brain. These crystals are sharp in nature, and very high levels may result in increased pain and inflammation throughout the body.

High levels of oxalates are considered to be especially dangerous for those with a history of kidney stones as they can result in the formation of a certain type of stone. However, ongoing research has linked high levels of oxalates to a range of other health conditions.

Where are they found?

Oxalates are found among a wide range of foods including:

How to reduce oxalates?

1. Diet Modification – Low oxalate diet
2. Hydration – Drinking enough liquids helps eliminate oxalates from the body.
3. Fat Digestion – Excessive fats in diet may lead to increased oxalates. Supporting fat digestion can help reduce overall oxalate load.
4. Omega 3s – Increase intake of essential omega-3 fatty acids, commonly found in fish oil and cod liver oil, which reduces oxalate problems. High amounts of the omega-6 fatty acid, arachidonic acid, are associated with increased oxalate problems. Meat from grain fed animals is high in arachidonic acid.

Testing for Oxalates

The Great Plains Laboratory Organic Acids Test (OAT) test for multiple markers connected with oxalates including Glyceric Acid, Glycolic Acid and Oxalic Acid.  Message me here to order an OAT test

Treating High Oxalate Levels

1. Antifungal Medications – Use antifungal drugs to reduce yeast and fungi that may be causing high oxalates. Children with autism frequently require years of antifungal treatment. Arabinose, a marker used for years for yeast/fungal overgrowth in the Organic Acids Test is correlated with high amounts of oxalates.
2. Calcium and Magnesium – Supplements of calcium and magnesium citrate can reduce oxalate absorption from the intestine. Citrate is the preferred calcium form to reduce oxalate because citrate also inhibits oxalate absorption from the intestinal tract.
3. Glucosamine – N-Acetyl glucosamine supplements can stimulate the production of the intercellular cement, hyaluronic acid, to reduce pain caused by oxalates.
4. Chondroitin – Chondroitin sulfate can prevent the formation of calcium oxalate crystals.
5. B6 – Vitamin B6 is a cofactor for one of the enzymes that degrades oxalate in the body and has been shown to reduce oxalate production.
6. Taurine – Excessive fats in the diet may cause elevated oxalates if the fatty acids are poorly absorbed because of bile salt deficiency. If taurine is low, supplementation with taurine may help stimulate bile salt production (taurocholic acid), leading to better fatty acid absorption and diminished oxalate absorption.
7. Probiotics – Probiotics may be very helpful in degrading oxalates in the intestine. Individuals with low amounts of oxalate-degrading bacteria are much more susceptible to kidney stones. Both Lactobacillus acidophilus and Bifidobacterium lactis have enzymes that degrade oxalates.
8. Other Nutrients – Supplements of vitamin E, selenium, and arginine have been shown to reduce oxalate damage.

Abstract

Background: We aimed to investigate the link of vitamin C status with vitality and psychological functions in a cross-sectional study, and examine their causal relationship through a randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Methods: We first conducted a population-based cross-sectional investigation of healthy young adults (n = 214, 20–39 years), and analyzed the associations of serum vitamin C concentrations with vitality (fatigue and attention) and mood status (stress, depression, and positive and negative affect) using Pearson’s correlation and multiple linear regression analyses. Next, we performed a double-blind RCT in healthy subjects whose serum vitamin C concentrations were inadequate (< 50 umol/L). Subjects were randomly allocated to receive 500 mg of vitamin C twice a day for 4 weeks (n = 24) or a placebo (n = 22). We assessed vitality, which included fatigue, attention, work engagement, and self-control resources, and measured mood status, including stress, depression, positive and negative affect, and anxiety. ELISA determined serum brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), and a Stroop color–word test evaluated attention capacity and processing speed.

Results: In the cross-sectional data, the serum vitamin C concentration was positively associated with the level of attention (r = 0.16, p = 0.02; standardized B = 0.21, p = 0.003), while no significant associations with the levels of fatigue and mood variables being found. In the RCT, compared to the placebo, the vitamin C supplementation significantly increased attention (p = 0.03) and work absorption (p = 0.03) with distinct tendency of improvement on fatigue (p = 0.06) and comprehensive work engagement (p = 0.07). The vitamin C supplementation did not affect mood and serum concentrations of BDNF. However, in the Stroop color–word test, the subjects supplemented with vitamin C showed better performance than those in the placebo group (p = 0.04).

Conclusions: Inadequate vitamin C status is related to a low level of mental vitality. Vitamin C supplementation effectively increased work motivation and attentional focus and contributed to better performance on cognitive tasks requiring sustained attention.

Source: https://doi.org/10.1007/s00394-021-02656-3

Extreme Fatigue

Extreme Fatigue refers to lack of energy or tiredness of whole body. There are many causes of Extreme fatigue such as alcohol and other drugs.

EXAMPLE CASE STUDY:

A 37-year-old female presented with digestive complaints, carb cravings, ‘overwhelming fatigue’, trouble concentrating at work, and unable to play with her daughter after work due to feeling tired all the time.

She couldn’t remember feeling ‘normal’ since before she had her daughter 6 years ago. She did not have difficulty falling asleep and often went to bed as early as 8pm. However she often woke during the night and could not fall back asleep due to ‘over-thinking’.

She had also been struggling to reduce her weight and had actually been gaining weight for the past 6 years. She complained of reflux, heaviness and discomfort after meals, especially those containing fat (which she has long tried to avoid in her diet), explaining that this may have something to do with her having her gall bladder removed a few years prior.

Treatment

She was prescribed a compounded mixture of 1,500 mg of Taurine (to assist with bile flow, metabolism of fats, support for detoxification & potentially weight management), and 200mg of 5-HTP (to support her sleep & appetite cravings).

The patient was also supported to cut out take-away/junk foods & sugary drinks, and advised not to consume caffeine after 12 pm.
She was also advised to quit her after-work wine habit and exercise every morning (yoga, walking).

Outcome

After just 2 weeks of treatment, the patient reported that although the first few days of changing her habits was hard, she had started feeling a lot better after just 1 week. After 2 weeks, not only did she have more energy, she reported getting a ‘rumbly tummy’ once again whenever she got hungry, and felt that she digested food more completely, feeling ‘lighter’ and more regular. She also reported better sleep.

As her digestive capacity had improved she was prescribed a daily teaspoon of Arctic Cod Liver Oil (divided into half at breakfast and dinner, to help supply natural Vitamin A and D as fat-soluble nutrients she was deficient in, from her long standing fat malabsorption) and continuation of another batch of the compounded Taurine/5-HTP formula mixture.

After 4 weeks, her improved fat-soluble detoxification may have assisted with the increased energy she felt, as well as her self-reported ‘hormonal balance’.
offered to ‘boost’ her next script of compounded formula with some added Acetyl-Carnitine, to provide even further support for fat metabolism on a cellular level (helping mitochondria break down fat for energy).

She is excited to continue making more changes in her life thanks to the great improvements in her wellbeing that she has experienced, and is starting to plan a holiday with her young family.

Mechanisms of Action

Taurine  

Taurine is a substrate for Bile Synthesis, fat metabolism and Phase II conjugation directly.

(Key to those seeking to support liver health, as well as assisting those working on hormone and toxin excretion, as well as better assimilation of Omega 3 EFAs, Vitamin D and A from the diet and supplements.)

Taurine may also assist in body fat reduction by reducing central adiposity and increasing insulin sensitivity, providing key support in type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

Supplementing Taurine can have a calming effect on nervous system allowing better nervous system balance and rest (by increasing activity of the GAD enzyme responsible for decreasing Glutamates, and can directly stimulate GABA receptors). Taurine deficiency in neuronal cells will therefore make them more prone to over-excitation.

5-HTP 

5-HTP is an intermediate precursor to Serotonin in the body. It is used clinically to support balanced neurotransmitters, mood, sleep (by increasing the length of REM sleep), & appetite (by managing carbohydrate cravings, satiety and digestive regularity).

EXAMPLE CASE STUDY:

A 35 year old woman presented with ongoing depression for the last 5 years. She continuously experienced strong feelings of apathy and sadness, with a persistent belief that nothing good occurred in her life. She indicated that these feelings and her lack of energy inhibited her ability to improve her diet or undertake any exercise.

Her psychologist had recommended that she improve her diet, and she was seeking support in how to achieve this. The patient was not currently on any medications.

Treatment

After the initial consultation, the patient was compounded a nervous system formula to support her neurochemistry. This was prescribed ahead of planned lifestyle and diet changes, to allow the patient to feel an elevated mood and state of energy.

• Magnesium Threonate – 2.5 grams (200 mg of elemental Magnesium per day)
• 5-HTP – 200mg/day
• DL-Phenylalanine – 3 grams/day

Outcome

After two weeks of treatment, the patient experienced a significant improvement in energy, stating that it was “just easier to get up and move about”. She said that she continued to experience sadness, however the feelings had significantly reduced and her increased energy allowed her to overcome these feelings and begin an exercise regime.

The patient continues therapy with her psychologist as well as work with her nutritionist in shifting more towards a whole-foods diet and regular exercise regime.

Mechanism of Action / Related Compounds

Mg Threonate

Suboptimal levels of Magnesium can often result in a range of nervous system abnormalities. Specific to depression, Magnesium deficiency is theorised to result in over activation and opening of N-methyl-D-aspartate (NMDA) coupled calcium channels, resulting in potential neuronal injury and neurological dysfunction – which may contribute to depression. Magnesium deficiency has also been correlated with lowered serotonin levels.

5-HTP

5-HTP is the direct precursor to Serotonin, a neurotransmitter with a diverse range of effects on mood, sleep, and appetite, among many other actions. Increasing low levels of serotonin has been the major form of treatment of depression by conventional medicine.

DL-Phenylalanine

DL-Phenylalanine is a precursor to Tyrosine and the neurotransmitter Dopamine, the primary neurochemical compound that regulates motivation, focus and the reward centre in our brain. Dopamine has often been found to be low in patients with depression.

Visit Benjamin Today

• Iridology & Holistic Therapies Takes a closer look at the whole body System from the inside out.
• A gift from childhood, Changing lives and empowering people for tomorrow.
• Nutripath Lab Testing Pathology & Functional Testing. Identifying the underlying cause of illness.
• Herbalist, Health & Nutrition Providing the best Quality Practitioner Herbs that are available.
• Live Blood Analysis & Lab Testing

I invite you to make an Appointment with me today

Benefits of Visiting Benjamin May Help with Some of the Following.

• People who have tried to heal chronic physical or emotional/mental imbalance and are seeking a new approach.
• People who want to feel more integrated and whole in their lives.
• People who want to help a family member.
• Those who are looking for someone with a gentle approach in assisting you to a greater understand of personal health.
• Benjamin also works with some General Practitioners and would sometimes refer patients for bloods and or other medical needs.

Benefits of Visiting Benjamin May Help with Some of the Following.

• Clarity and More Life Energy in your body and mind
• Peace of Mind
• Acceleration of your personal evolution
• Healing of Chronic Fatigue Syndrome
• Healing of Depression
• Healing of Chronic Pain including injuries
• Help with Emotional Problems including stress & anxiety
• Healing of Many Chronic Diseases and Accelerated Recovery after surgery
• Avoiding cross contamination of massage creams by using single use containers and spatulas.

Thirty-one point eight percent (31.8%)……that’s almost one in every three.That’s the number of hypothyroidism sufferers I’ve surveyed who suffer from anxiety and panic attacks.That’s huge!But it’s a topic that fewer are willing to talk openly about.So, it never gets the attention it deserves.Anxiety can occur without warning. And like a tornado, it can leave a path of destruction in its wake.Anxiety and anxiety related disorders can ruin relationships with friends and family. It can tear apart loving marriages.When it strikes, you can literally lose all control over yourself and your thinking.And there’s nothing you can do about it.But it doesn’t have to be that way.Imagine feeling confident in any social situation……being able to stay in control of your thoughts and not give in to irrational thinking.Imagine being in control of your emotions and not being overcome with fear and worry.Yes, it is possible.But, it’s only when you can understand the underlying cause of a problem that you can actually fix it.Yet, the underlying cause of anxiety is very misunderstood.Many believe it be a simple matter of stress or adrenal fatigue.But trying to fix your adrenal glands alone isn’t going to solve your anxiety problems.(Note: Do you think you have adrenal fatigue? If so, then make sure you read this eye-opening article on “Why You Don’t Have Adrenal Fatigue (and Why Treating It Is Ruining Your Thyroid)”.)The first step in freeing yourself from anxiety is to fix your Hypothyroidism-Serotonin Anxiety Cycle.

So, let’s get right to it, but first…

What Is Serotonin and How Does It Cause Anxiety?

(Note: This is applies to many forms of anxiety and depression. This includes everything from General Anxiety Disorder (GAD) to event-driven Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).)

If you’ve ever heard of serotonin, you might have heard it called the “happy” hormone.

Unfortunately, that’s not the case.

If it were, then hypothyroid sufferers might just be the happiest people on earth.

In reality, serotonin is a primitive stress hormone.

In your intestines and blood, serotonin influences digestion, appetite, muscle contractions and more.

In excess in your intestines, serotonin causes IBS, leaky gut, diarrhea, and nausea.

In your brain, serotonin influences your mood, emotions, sexual desire, social behavior, and more.

In excess (in your brain), serotonin activates your reptilian brain’s “fight or flight” response.

Your reptilian brain (brain stem) focuses strictly on survival. It’s void of logic and rational thinking.

When serotonin activates your “flight or flight” response, the result is anxiety and/or panic. And you’re left unable to think clearly and rationally.

This is why most effective anti-anxiety medications today work in two ways:

1. Lowering serotonin’s activity in the brain.
2. Blocking your brain’s serotonin receptors.

There are many ways to lower your serotonin naturally through diet, which I’ll show you in a second.

But to lower your serotonin, you first have to understand why it’s elevated to begin with.

The Hypothyroidism-Serotonin Anxiety Cycle

Hypothyroidism and serotonin have a unique relationship.

Hypothyroidism promotes the over-production of serotonin.

And the over-production of serotonin further suppresses your thyroid.

This creates one of many dangerous hypothyroidism cycles. And it’s dangerous cycles like this that keep you trapped in your hypothyroidism.