• Psychology -> Neuropsychology and Psychopharmacology

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What is Glutamate and how does it affect our brain and mood?

Destinee Mulroy

Well, Glutamate is an amino acid that acts as a neurotransmitter in the brain. It is actually the most abundant neurotransmitter found in the brain! It is responsible for sending nerve impulses throughout the brain and stimulates the brain cells to communicate with each other. However, too much of it can be harmful and can lead to overstimulation of the brain cells causing damage or even cell death.

Glutamate affects our brain and mood in multiple ways. In some cases, it can make us feel happy and energetic while in others it can cause anxiety and depression. It is responsible for our ability to learn and create new memories. It helps in forming and strengthening connections between different brain regions leading to better cognitive functioning, memory consolidation and learning. When our brain is not functioning correctly, it can lead to various neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson’s disease, and even depression.

Apart from its effects on cognitive function, Glutamate also plays an important role in regulating our appetite. It helps us to control our food consumption by regulating our hunger signals. This is why it is important to eat foods that contain Glutamate, it helps to control our appetite and prevent overeating.

But, too much Glutamate can be harmful as well. It can lead to over-excitation of brain cells resulting in migraines, seizures, and even brain damage in some cases. Some studies have also shown that excessive levels of this neurotransmitter can increase the risk of developing depression, addictions, and other psychiatric issues.

So, how can we keep our Glutamate levels in check? Well, the best way is to maintain a healthy lifestyle by eating a well-balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise. Consuming foods that are rich in Glutamate such as meat, fish, dairy products, and fruits and vegetables can provide us with the necessary amount of Glutamate without causing overstimulation. On the other hand, avoiding processed foods that contain excess Glutamate such as fast food, packaged snacks, and processed meats is important to prevent overexposure.

Overall, Glutamate is an important neurotransmitter that helps us function properly. However, it is important to maintain its balance to prevent any harmful effects. So, eat healthily, exercise regularly, and be mindful of your Glutamate intake to keep your brain and mood healthy and happy!