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BRAIN ZAPS
Brain Zaps, Brain Shivers or Electrical shocks are a fairly common symptom from all Antidepressants, but also can occur with Benzodiazepines and Sleeping Pills. The symptoms are described as brief but repeated electric shock-like sensations in the brain and head, or originating in the brain but extending to other parts of the body. Sometimes it is accompanied by disorientation, tinnitus, vertigo and lightheadedness. Moving one’s eyes from side to side quickly has also been shown to trigger Brain Zaps in more rapid frequency. In withdrawal, these jolts of electricity can worsen and become quite debilitating, although there is no current evidence that the zaps present any danger to the individual. A study in The Journal of Neuroscience in December, 2000 indicated that Tricyclic antidepressants and SSRIs (Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitors) were shown to cause oxidative stress in a nerve cell line due to a reduction of intracellular Glutathione (master antioxidant of the body) levels. (1) According to Dr. Jimmy Gutman, the brain is particularly susceptible to free radical attack because it generates more oxidative by-products per gram of tissue than any other organ. Oxidative Stress is a condition that occurs when the production of free radicals in the human body exceed the body’s ability to neutralize and eliminate them. Free Radicals are the chemicals that are released during oxidation, or when the molecule in cells split and become unstable. The instability causes a chain reaction in the surrounding molecules, including genes. Oxidative Stress can result from the extended use of medications or environmental toxins. Glutathione works to inhibit the formation of free radicals, the dangerous agents that suppress the immune system and promote the formation of carcinogens. Glutathione aids in the protection of all cells and membranes and a study at Harvard found that Glutathione enhances immune system cells. Dr. Jimmy Gutman describes Glutathione as “Food for the Immune System.” Replenishing the body of critical Glutathione levels not only helps to improve immune function, but also allows the body to detoxify naturally. The brain has neurons, or cells that transmit messages to other parts of the body, and the wall around these neurons are made up of “good” fat. These neurons need to be flexible to allow vital molecules to pass through and to communicate properly. If these cells become dry, they also become still and less pliable and decrease brain function. According to Dr. Bill Code, “High levels of Omega 3 can assist the brain in creating cell membranes that are more elastic, thus enabling normal electrical impulses to enter the cell.” This may explain why sufficient Omega 3 seems to ease the persistent brain zaps that many experience when attempting to stop an antidepressant. POINT OF RETURN all-natural food supplements may help to replenish depleted supplies of Glutathione, while also supplying Selenium, Zinc, Vitamin D, and the critical B Vitamins. Also available is a rich blend of Pharmaceutical Grade Omega 3, to feed the brain critical levels of fatty acids. The modern diet is low in Omega-3 fatty acids and yet all the nerves connected to the nervous system consist of high concentrations of these essential fatty acids. Brain Zaps can also accompany Anxiety and Insomnia during or after the withdrawal process, which is why the Nutritional Support offered by POINT OF RETURN includes two items to help the body resist stress and assist with sleep. The Tart Cherry Extract is naturally rich in Melatonin while a natural casein decapeptide to ease the effects of stress on the body.* Melatonin is a powerful antioxidant that stimulates brain glutathione while also regulating our circadian rhythms, or our ability to awaken and sleep.
The POINT OF RETURN Nutritional Support is an all-natural way to help replenish your body and brain.
*While great care has been taken in organizing and presenting the material throughout this website, please note that it is provided for informational purposes only and should not be taken as Medical Advice. *These statements on this website have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The products mentioned / sold are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease or illness. |
