Neurotransmitters play an important role in the proper functioning of the human nervous system. One of these substances is acetylcholine – an organic molecule, the presence of which is characteristic of the brain of various mammals, birds and, of course, humans. What role does the neurotransmitter acetylcholine play in the human body, why is it so important and are there ways to increase the level of acetylcholine in the body – read the article prepared for you by estet-portal.com.
What is the neurotransmitter acetylcholine and what are its functions?
Chemical formula of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine CH3COO(CH2)2N+(CH3). This organic molecule plays a role in the functioning of the central and peripheral nervous systems. Place of synthesis of acetylcholine – axons of nerve cells, substances necessary for the formation of acetylcholine: acetylcoenzyme A and choline (vitamin B4). Acetylcholinesterase (an enzyme) is responsible for the balance of this mediator, which is able to break down excess acetylcholine into choline and acetate.
Acetylcholine functions
- improvement of cognitive abilities;
- memory improvement;
- Improved neuromuscular communication.
Scientists have found that the neurotransmitter acetylcholine not only helps improve memory and promote learning, it also helps the brain distinguish between old and new memories – thanks to him we remember what happened yesterday and what – five years ago.
In the membrane of muscle cells are H-cholinergic receptors that are sensitive to acetylcholine. When acetylcholine binds to this kind of receptor, sodium ions enter the muscle cells, causing the muscles to contract. With regard to the action of acetylcholine on the heart muscle, it differs from the effect on smooth muscles – heart rate decreases.
Deficiency of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine: causes and methods of replenishment
When the level of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine decreases, there is a deficiency of acetylcholine. The doctor will be able to determine the exact cause of such a deficiency.
Acetylcholine deficiency symptoms:
- failure to listen;
- inability to concentrate;
- inability to remember and recall information (memory impairment);
- slow information processing;
- fatty metamorphosis of the liver;
- Alzheimer's disease;
- sleep disorders;
- nerve problems;
- increased fatigue;
- muscle weakness.
When the levels of acetylcholine in the body are normalized, and this happens through proper nutrition, inflammation is suppressed and the connection between muscles and nerves is improved.
The following are at risk of decreased levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine:
- marathon runners and endurance athletes;
- people who abuse alcohol;
- vegetarians;
- People whose diet is not balanced.
The main factor contributing to the decrease or increase of acetylcholine in the body is a balanced diet.
How to increase the level of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the body?
There are three main ways to increase the levels of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine in the body:
- food;
- regular physical activity;
- intellectual training.
Foods rich in choline (vitamin B4) – liver (chicken, beef, etc.), eggs, milk and dairy products, turkey, leafy vegetables. It is better to replace coffee with tea. Make sure you have enough of these foods in your diet so you don't have to worry about acetylcholine deficiency.
When there is a shortage of raw materials for the production of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, the brain begins to "eat itself", so carefully monitor your diet.
If, for any reason, a person cannot get enough vitamin B4 from food, a doctor may prescribe the following supplements and medications to increase acetylcholine levels:
- lecithin;
- citicoline;
- L-alpha glycerylforsphorylchlorin;
- Choline Bitartrate;
- Phosphatidylcholine;
- Acetyl-L-carnitine (ALCAR);
- racetams;
- acetylcholinesterase inhibitors.
Estet-portal.com reminds that the doctor prescribes supplements and drugs after appropriate tests.
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