1. Introduction
2. The Interconnected Web
2.1 The Role of Thyroid Hormones
2.2 The Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Thyroid-Adrenal (HPTA) Axis
2.3 Mood and Neurotransmitter Dysregulation
3. Lifestyle Components to Support Healthy Thyroid Function
4. Nutrient Solutions to Support Thyroid Function
5. Pure Encapsulations Nutrient Solutions
6. Conclusion
7. Resources

By: Kim Ross, DCN, CNS, LDN, IFMCP

Occasional stress and anxious feelings have implications for thyroid health. A poll conducted in 2024 by the American Psychiatric Association revealed that 43% of adults in the United States experience increased feelings of occasional anxiousness, with 53% of those polled attributing this feeling to stress.¹ The American Thyroid Association reports that approximately 12% of the U.S. population will experience changes in thyroid function at some point in their lives ², though the data on the prevalence varies from 4.6%-14.4%.³ Suboptimal thyroid function is characterized by compromised thyroid hormone production or conversion of thyroxine (T4) to triiodothyronine (T3). Thyroid antibodies may also be present, with or without changes in thyroid hormone levels, resulting in a self-tissue response. Low mood is a common symptom of changes in thyroid hormone levels, with 63% of adults with suboptimal thyroid function having some degree of anxious feelings.⁴

Conventional intervention approaches often focus on symptom management rather than addressing the root causes of stress, mood dysregulation and thyroid-related symptoms. For example, the most common medical intervention for thyroid support is the use of synthetic T4 medications, which may stabilize thyroid hormone levels but can exacerbate anxious feelings in some patients.⁵

Pharmaceuticals used for mood regulation have variable efficacy and carry risks that should be carefully considered.⁶ These limitations underscore the need for a nutrient-focused, integrative approach to supporting thyroid health, resilience and emotional balance.

It’s important to note that any recommendations are not meant to treat, cure, or prevent diseases or be a substitute for medical, diagnostic, and treatment options. Dietary supplements are not intended to replace the use of any medications prescribed.

It can be a challenge deciding optimal clinical recommendations when patients present with occasional stress, anxiousness and changes with thyroid function, with or without the presence of thyroid antibodies. It can be helpful to review the interconnected web between the three to help determine the appropriate and most optimal course of action.

The hypothalamus-pituitary-thyroid (HPT) axis is the neuroendocrine system that controls the production of thyroid hormones through a feedback loop. Thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH), is produced by the pituitary gland, which signals the thyroid gland to produce thyroid hormones, primarily thyroxine (T4). Once T4 is secreted, it is bound to transport proteins and carried to the cells and tissues where it passes through a series of metabolic transformations. It is then activated to triiodothyronine (T3) or inactivated into reverse T3 (rT3). This entire process is largely influenced by nutrient (in)sufficiency, stress and other lifestyle factors. However, loss of self-tolerance is another influential factor in this process. Thyroid antibodies may be present with or without abnormalities in the production of TSH, T4 and/or T3 and can contribute to a suboptimal thyroid. Genetics, cytokine dysregulation, diet and lifestyle factors are commonly noted as contributors to loss of self-tolerance.^7,8

Thyroid hormones play a role in the development, differentiation and metabolic maintenance of virtually all tissues, which is a topic that is beyond the scope of this blog. Of interest, thyroid hormones help regulate the body’s response to stress. Additionally, thyroid hormones directly influence the synthesis, release and degradation of key neurotransmitters associated with stress and mood regulation, including serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA).

Suboptimal thyroid function often disrupts the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which can alter one’s ability to maintain resilience to the stressors of life while also worsening occasional anxious feelings. There are two categories of stressors:

• External: Such as post-traumatic events, work, relationships and finances.
• Physiological: Such as nutrient insufficiencies, toxin burden, overactivation of the 
  immune system and cytokine function.

When an individual experiences stress, the HPA axis is activated, leading to increased production of cortisol. This is when the interconnected hypothalamic-pituitary-thyroid-adrenal (HPTA) axis becomes apparent. Elevated cortisol levels can inhibit the conversion of T4 to its active form T3, resulting in suboptimal thyroid function. Additionally, stress can lead to changes in production of reverse T3, which is biologically inactive and competes with T3 for cellular receptors.⁹ Finally, stress has been implicated as a trigger for loss of self-tolerance and an increased production of thyroid antibodies.¹⁰ The feedback loop in the HPTA axis creates a potential pathway through which stress and low functioning thyroid are interconnected. 

The relationship between stress and suboptimal thyroid can also contribute to the development of occasional anxious feelings. Thyroid hormones play a role in regulating the central nervous system (CNS) and the limbic system, which are critical for mood stabilization and emotional processing. Thyroid function in need of support can affect the synthesis and availability of  neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), which are essential for maintaining a calm and balanced emotional state.¹¹ In fact, nutrients that are needed for the proper production of thyroid hormones also play a role as co-factors for the production of these neurotransmitters, including, but not limited to, B vitamins, zinc, vitamin C and the amino acid tyrosine.^‡

Nutrition: A nutrient-dense diet that supports thyroid health, neurotransmitter production, and modulates cytokine response can be effective in managing stress and emotional well-being. Emphasizing foods rich in selenium (e.g., Brazil nuts), iodine (e.g., seaweed, seafood, dairy, eggs, poultry) and zinc (e.g., pumpkin seeds, lean meats) should serve as a foundation. The Mediterranean Diet, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, has been shown to improve emotional regulation and support the neuroendocrine system.¹²

Exercise: Aerobic activities, such as walking or cycling, have been found to enhance the conversion of T4 to T3 and increase the sensitivity of cellular receptors to thyroid hormones. Additionally, yoga and tai chi, which integrate physical movement with mindfulness, have demonstrated efficacy in reducing stress and promoting thyroid health.¹³

Sleep: Suboptimal thyroid function may lead to sleep disturbances. Poor sleep aggravates occasional anxiety by impacting neurotransmitters and can lead to the increased production of stress hormones. Prioritizing 7-9 hours of restorative sleep per night, maintaining a consistent sleep schedule and creating a calming pre-sleep routine can help optimize thyroid function, modulate stress responses and promote a calm mood.

Stress Management: Mind-body practices such as mindfulness meditation, deep breathing exercises, guided imagery and progressive muscle relaxation have been shown to provide effectiveness on the psychological and physiological levels.¹⁴

Iodine is a vital nutrient for the synthesis of T4. While adequate iodine intake is essential for maintaining thyroid function, it should be approached cautiously, especially in individuals with a self-tissue response.^‡ 

Selenium is a critical cofactor for the enzyme deiodinase, which converts T4 to T3. Generally, individuals will consume enough of this nutrient in their diet. It is important to be aware of potential selenium toxicity from excess consumption.¹⁵

Zinc is an essential trace mineral involved in the conversion of T4 to T3 and is a needed cofactor for the regulation of neurotransmitters. B Vitamins particularly B6, B9 (folate) and B12, play a role in T4 production, and neurotransmitter synthesis. These vitamins also help improve the body’s response to stress.^‡

Myo-inositol is the primary form of inositol found in the central nervous system. It plays an important role in cell membrane formation and serves as part of the phosphatidylinositol secondary messenger system, supporting serotonin, norepinephrine and cholinergic receptor function.^16‡

Studies have shown that combined use of Selenium methionine and Myo-inositol can support feelings of well-being, thyroid hormone production and healthy TSH, TPO and TG antibody levels.^{17,18 ‡}

L-Tyrosine is an amino acid that serves as a precursor for the synthesis of thyroid hormones and the neurotransmitter, dopamine. 

GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter and amino acid that promotes calmness and relaxation. It plays a significant role in regulating the HPA axis and reducing the body's stress response. ^‡

L-Theanine, an amino acid found in green tea, has been shown to promote relaxation by modulating glutamate (the excitatory neurotransmitter) function, and possibly the GABA, system as well.^{19 ‡}

Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera) is an adaptogenic herb known for its ability to reduce stress and support thyroid health. Research indicates that ashwagandha can lower cortisol levels, support thyroid hormone production and enhance overall well-being.²⁰ 

Pure Encapsulations® provides uniquely formulated products made with high-quality, 
pure ingredients backed by verifiable science to complement your plan of care and support 
healthy aging in your patients.^‡

Thyroid Support Complex: Supports optimal thyroid gland function, healthy thyroid cell 
metabolism and thyroid hormone function^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 2 capsules daily, with a meal.

Daily Stress Formula: Promotes mental relaxation and moderates the effects of 
occasional stress, supports the body’s resilience when faced with occasional stress and
helps moderate mild fatigue under stressful conditions^‡
 
Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 3 capsules daily, with or between meals.

L-Theanine: Promotes relaxation, with Suntheanine®, without causing drowsiness^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, children ages 8-18, take 1 capsule, 1-2 times 
daily, between meals. Adults, take 2 capsules, 1-3 times daily, between meals.

Zinc 30: Broad physiological support, including immune function and emotional wellness^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule, 1-2 times daily, with a meal.

Selenium (selenomethionine): Supports antioxidant defenses, immune function and 
cellular health^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule daily, with a meal, or as directed 
by a health professional.

GABA: Promotes relaxation and moderates occasional stress. May also support immune 
health during occasional stress.^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule daily, between meals, or as 
directed by a health professional.

DopaPlus 180’s: Promotes the production of dopamine to support daily cognitive function 
and performance on mental tasks while also supporting mood.^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 3 capsules, 1-2 times daily, with low protein 
foods.

SeroPlus: Promotes serotonin synthesis to support relaxation, moderate occasional stress 
and maintain healthy eating behavior. Provides neurotransmitter precursors to help 
balance serotonin function and maintains healthy serotonin activity and reuptake.^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 2 capsules, 1-2 times daily, between meals.

NeuroPure 120’s: Provides enhanced support for emotional balance and mood stability
while supporting overall neurotransmitter function and neuronal health.^‡

Suggested Use: As a dietary supplement, take 2 capsules, 1-2 times daily, between meals.

Inositol Complex: May support healthy mood, emotional wellness and behavior and helps 
lessen occasional nervous tension.^‡

Suggested Use: as a dietary supplement, take 1 capsule, twice daily with meals.

The intricate connection between stress, occasional anxiousness, and thyroid health underscores the importance of a holistic approach to wellness. By understanding the role of the HPT and HPTA axes, as well as the impact of lifestyle factors and nutrient support, individuals can take proactive steps to better manage their thyroid health and emotional well-being. Prioritizing a nutrient-dense diet, stress management techniques, quality sleep, and appropriate supplementation can create a foundation for resilience and balance. While navigating these interconnections can be complex, informed choices and integrative strategies offer a pathway to improved overall health

Thyroid Support Protocol^‡: Designed by our clinician partners to help you deliver the most effective care and support for your patient's thyroid.

Drug-Nutrient Interaction Checker:  Provides valuable information on potential interactions between your patients' prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and nutritional supplements.

PureInsight™: Our streamlined platform easily collects patient data and provides valuable recommendations to help achieve their health goals.

Virtual Dispensary: Our Pure Patient Direct program provides account holders FREE access to our virtual dispensary to help simplify patient sales and reduce in-office inventory.

You can also explore Pure Encapsulations^® to find On-Demand Learning, Clinical Protocols and other resources developed with our medical and scientific advisors.

1. American Psychiatric Association. American Adults Express Increasing Anxiousness in Annual Poll; Stress and Sleep are Key Factors Impacting Mental Health. American Psychiatric Association. May 1, 2024. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.psychiatry.org/news-room/news-releases/annual-poll-adults-express-increasing-anxiousness
2. American Thyroid Association. Prevalence and Impact of Thyroid Disease. American Thyroid Association. Accessed November 11, 2024. https://www.thyroid.org/media-main/press-room/
3. Wyne KL, Nair L, Schneiderman CP, et al, 2009-2019. J Endocr Soc. 2023;7(1). 
   doi:10.1210/jendso/bvac172
4. Bathla M, Singh M, Relan P. Indian J Endocrinol Metab. 2016;20(4). doi:10.4103/2230-8210.183476
5. The American Society of Health-System Pharmacists. Levothyroxine. MedlinePlus. February 15, 2019. Accessed November 11, 2024. 
   https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a682461.htm
6. Kirsch I. Front Psychiatry. 2019;10(JUN). doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2019.00407
7. Mikulska AA, Karaźniewicz-łada M, Filipowicz D, Ruchała M, Główka FK. Int J Mol Sci. 
   2022;23(12). doi:10.3390/ijms23126580
8. Klubo-Gwiezdzinska J, Wartofsky L. Pol Arch Intern Med. 2022;132(3). 
   doi:10.20452/pamw.16222
9. Sinha SR, Prakash P, Keshari JR, Kumari R, Prakash V. Cureus. Published online 2023. 
   doi:10.7759/cureus.50199
10. Markomanolaki ZS, Tigani X, Siamatras T, et al. J Mol Biochem. 2019;8(1):3-12.
11. Martin J V., Sarkar PK. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2023;14. 
    doi:10.3389/fendo.2023.1210540
12. Barrea L, Verde L, Annunziata G, et al. J Endocrinol Invest. 2023;47(1):17-33. 
    doi:10.1007/s40618-023-02169-2
13. Pascoe MC, Thompson DR, Ski CF. Psychoneuroendocrinology. 2017;86. 
    doi:10.1016/j.psyneuen.2017.08.008
14. Toussaint L, Nguyen QA, Roettger C, et al. Evidence-based Complementary and 
    Alternative Medicine. 2021;2021. doi:10.1155/2021/5924040
15. MacFarquhar JK, Broussard DL, Melstrom P, et al. Arch Intern Med. 2010;170(3). 
    doi:10.1001/archinternmed.2009.495
16. Concerto C, Chiarenza C, Di Francesco A, et al. Curr Issues Mol Biol. 2023;45(2). 
    doi:10.3390/cimb45020113
17. Nordio M, Basciani S. Int J Endocrinol. 2017;2017. doi:10.1155/2017/2549491
18. Ferrari SM, Fallahi P, Di Bari F, Vita R, Benvenga S, Antonelli A. Eur Rev Med 
    Pharmacol Sci. 2017;21(2).
19. Shamabadi A, Kafi F, Arab Bafrani M, Asadigandomani H, A. Basti F, Akhondzadeh S. 
    J AIect Disord. 2023;333. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2023.04.029
20. Wiciński M, Fajkiel-Madajczyk A, Kurant Z, et al. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(22). 
    doi:10.3390/ijms242216513

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James M. Greenblatt, MD, is a pioneer in the field of integrative medicine and has treated patients since 1988. He was the Chief Medical Officer at Walden Behavioral Care in Waltham, MA for 21 years and is an Assistant Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at Tufts University School of Medicine and Dartmouth College Geisel School of Medicine. An acknowledged integrative medicine expert, Dr. Greenblatt regularly lectures on the scientific evidence for nutritional interventions in psychiatry, has authored eight books, and is the founder of Psychiatry Redefined, an educational platform dedicated to the personalized, evidence-based treatment of mental health. Dr. Greenblatt helped co-develop the PureSYNAPSE™ exclusive.  

^{+Dr. Greenblatt is a paid advisor for Pure Encapsulations.} 

By: Kim Ross, DCN, CNS, LDN, IFMCP

Positive mood and emotional well-being are essential to overall health, yet low mood affects a significant portion of the global population. According to the World Health Organization, 5% of adults (over 280 million people) worldwide experience some level of low mood or loss of pleasure and interest in activities. In comparison, it is estimated to affect about 10% of all adults in the United States.^1,2 Additionally, it is reported that low moods are 50% more common in women than men.²  

People struggling with low mood experience variable ranges of psychological and physical symptoms. These can include pervasive feelings of sadness or hopelessness, a lack of interest in activities, fatigue and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms are often accompanied by physical manifestations such as changes in appetite, sleep disturbances and decreased energy levels.2 Importantly, underlying immunological processes have been found to play a critical role in regulating mood states, opening avenues for innovative therapeutic approaches.¹

Immune System Activation and the Brain

An area of science called neuroimmunology has highlighted the deep, bidirectional connection and communication between the brain and immune system and its influence on mood regulation.^3–5 Immune cells, including microglia, astrocytes and cytokines, interact directly with neurons, contributing to the modulation of mood and cognitive function.^6,7

Studies suggest that systemic immune activation can affect the nervous system via production of cytokines, including  interleukin-1 beta (IL-1b), interleukin-6 (IL-6), interleukin-8 (IL-8) and tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), which can cross the blood-brain barrier.¹ Alteration of the immune/brain interaction can affect neurotransmitter balance, affecting the production of serotonin, GABA, dopamine and norepinephrine, which are critical for mood stabilization.⁴

Cytokines and Neurotransmitter Balance

Cytokines can influence neurotransmitter balance by modulating key pathways responsible for serotonin, dopamine and glutamate/GABA synthesis and reuptake. For example, the cytokine interferon-gamma (IFN-g) can activate the enzyme indoleamine 2,3-dioxygenase (IDO), which degrades tryptophan, a precursor to serotonin, into kynurenine. This shift reduces serotonin availability, affecting mood regulation.8 However, some kynurenine metabolites have neuroprotective properties, reinforcing the importance of having a healthy cytokine balance within the body.⁸

Similarly, some cytokines (IL-1b, IL-6, IFN-g, and TNF-α) have been shown to decrease the transport of tyrosine (a non-essential amino acid produced from phenylalanine), which is needed for the synthesis of dopamine and catecholamines.9  Cytokines have also been implicated in increasing glutamate activity through quinolinic acid production.¹⁰

Nutrition: Diet plays a critical role in immune and mood regulation. A nutrient and polyphenol-dense Mediterranean diet is rich in vegetables, fruits, omega-3 fatty acids and fiber. It has been shown to modulate cytokine levels and promote mental well-being.^11,12 

Exercise: Regular, moderate-intensity physical activity has been shown to promote cytokine balance. Exercise also helps to reduce stress and provides neuroprotection through the antioxidant system.¹³

Sleep: Poor sleep quality is associated with elevated levels of IL-6, TNF-α, nuclear factor-kB (NF-kB), and CRP (C-reactive protein), important markers of the immune system.¹⁴ Prioritizing sleep hygiene and achieving 7 to 9 hours of restorative sleep can help restore immune balance and positively influence mood.

Mind-Body Practices: Yoga, meditation and mindfulness practices can reduce stress, improve sleep and promote a balanced immune response, including the modulation of cytokines.¹⁵

Polyphenols, including flavonoids, curcumin, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and oligomeric proanthocyanidins (OPCs), are found in a variety of plant-based foods, such as vegetables, berries, green tea and dark chocolate.¹⁶

Curcumin, the active compound in turmeric, exerts its mood benefits by regulating cytokine activity, mainly by reducing levels of TNF-α and IL-6. By maintaining a healthy cytokine response, curcumin supports neurotransmitter balance, especially the monoamines, serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine.¹⁷ Further, preclinical data suggest that curcumin may bind to NMDA receptors to balance glutamate/GABA signaling.^18‡

Green tea extract contains a high concentration of EGCG, a compound known for its antioxidant and cytokine-modulating properties. The catechins in green tea also help boost dopamine levels, while theanine modulates glutamate, GABA, serotonin and dopamine levels, enhancing a sense of calm and providing cytokine balance.19,20 Green tea extract also supports neurogenesis and promotes the release of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF), which plays a critical role in mood regulation.^19‡

Pycnogenol, derived from the bark of the French maritime pine tree, is another potent immunomodulator that shows promising cognitive-enhancing effects by reducing oxidative stress and enhancing neurotransmitter activity.²¹ Over 450 articles have been published highlighting the plethora of benefits of this compound in multiple areas of health.^22‡

Pure Encapsulations^® provides uniquely formulated products made with high-quality, pure ingredients backed by verifiable science to complement your plan of care and support healthy aging in your patients.^‡

CurcumaSorb Mind offers support for mental alertness, relaxation and occasional stress. Promotes emotional wellness by supporting healthy levels of serotonin and dopamine.^‡

Suggested Use: Take 2 capsules, 1-2 times daily, with meals.  

Pycnogenol^® 100 mg supports cognitive function and cardiovascular health^‡

Suggested Use: Take 1 capsule, 1-2 times daily, with or between meals.

Green Tea extract (decaffeinated) supports neurocognitive, cardiovascular and cellular health. Provides optimal cellular function and antioxidant protection^‡

Suggested Use: Take 1 capsule, 1-4 times daily, with meals.

The intricate relationship between the immune system and mood highlights the importance of cytokine modulation in mental health. By targeting key cytokines involved in mood regulation, it is possible to influence neurotransmitter pathways and foster positive emotional states.  Making lifestyle changes and using immune-modulating ingredients like pycnogenol and polyphenols offers a holistic approach to supporting mental well-being.

Positive Mood Protocol‡: Designed by our clinician partners to help you deliver the most effective care and support for your patient's mood.

Drug-Nutrient Interaction Checker:  Provides valuable information on potential interactions between your patients' prescriptions, over-the-counter medications and nutritional supplements.

PureInsight™: Our streamlined platform easily collects patient data and provides valuable recommendations to help achieve their health goals.

Virtual Dispensary: Our Pure Patient Direct program provides account holders FREE access to our virtual dispensary to help simplify patient sales and reduce in-office inventory.

You can also explore Pure Encapsulations^® to find On-Demand Learning, Clinical Protocols and other resources developed with our medical and scientific advisors.

1. Miller AH, Raison CL. Nat Rev Immunol. 2016;16(1). doi:10.1038/nri.2015.5
2. World Health Organization (WHO). Accessed June 29, 2024. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/depression
3. Zhou L, Foster JA. Neuropsychiatr Dis Treat. Published online 2015. doi:10.2147/NDT.S61997
4. Ross K. Explore. Published online 2023. doi:10.1016/j.explore.2023.02.007
5. Nutma E, Willison H, Martino G, Amor S. Clin Exp Immunol. 2019;197(3). doi:10.1111/cei.13279
6. Dantzer R.  Physiol Rev. 2018;98(1). doi:10.1152/physrev.00039.2016
7. Daëron M. Front Immunol. 2022;13. doi:10.3389/fimmu.2022.984678
8. Tsuji A, Ikeda Y, Yoshikawa S, et al.  Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(6). doi:10.3390/ijms24065742
9. Mancini M, Natoli S, Gardoni F, Di Luca M, Pisani A.  Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(6). doi:10.3390/ijms24065618
10. Ho TC, Teresi GI, Segarra JR, et al.  Front Psychiatry. 2021;12. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2021.642976
11. Koelman L, Egea Rodrigues C, Aleksandrova K. Advances in Nutrition. 2022;13(1). doi:10.1093/advances/nmab086
12. Ventriglio A, Sancassiani F, Contu MP, et al. Clinical Practice & Epidemiology in Mental Health. Published online 2020. doi:10.2174/1745017902016010156
13. Docherty S, Harley R, McAuley JJ, et al. BMC Sports Sci Med Rehabil. 2022;14(1). doi:10.1186/s13102-022-00397-2
14. Irwin MR, Opp MR. Neuropsychopharmacology. 2017;42(1). doi:10.1038/npp.2016.148
15. Black DS, Slavich GM. Ann N Y Acad Sci. 2016;1373(1). doi:10.1111/nyas.12998
16. Winiarska-Mieczan A, Kwiecień M, Jachimowicz-Rogowska K, Donaldson J, Tomaszewska E, Baranowska-Wójcik E. Int J Mol Sci. 2023;24(3). doi:10.3390/ijms24032258
17. Peng Y, Ao M, Dong B, et al. Drug Des Devel Ther. 2021;15. doi:10.2147/DDDT.S327378
18. Ramaholimihaso T, Bouazzaoui F, Kaladjian A.  Front Psychiatry. 2020;11. doi:10.3389/fpsyt.2020.572533
19. Afzal O, Dalhat MH, Altamimi ASA, et al. Molecules. 2022;27(21). doi:10.3390/molecules27217604
20. Shamabadi A, Kafi F, Arab Bafrani M, Asadigandomani H, A. Basti F, Akhondzadeh S.  J Affect Disord. 2023;333. doi:10.1016/j.jad.2023.04.029
21. Simpson T, Kure C, Stough C. Front Pharmacol. 2019;10. doi:10.3389/fphar.2019.00694
22. Weichmann F, Rohdewald P.  Front Nutr. 2024;11. doi:10.3389/fnut.2024.1389374

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Kelly C. Heim, PhD, is a Senior Consultant of Medical AGairs at Pure Encapsulations® and Founder and Senior Science Editor at Integrative Pharmacology. He received his doctoral degree in pharmacology from Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College and specializes in the pharmacology of natural compounds. Dr. Heim is a published author and illustrator of various studies, scholarly reviews and book chapters. He offers complimentary learning resources on the basics of clinical pharmacology of natural products via his website, IntegrativePharmacology.com. 

+Dr. Heim is an employee of Pure Encapsulations.

1. Harris E. Poll: Roughly 12% of US Adults Have Used a GLP-1 Drug, Even If Unaffordable. JAMA.2024;332(1):8. doi:10.1001/jama.2024.10333

Building Resilience: A Guide to Personalized Care for Stress

Key Points

1. Each patient's experience of stress is unique and shaped by multiple factors.
2. A thorough understanding and personalized approach to the three stages of stress response is essential for supporting patients in recovering from stress and building resilience.
3. A customized strategy not only addresses the diverse causes and symptoms of stress but also enhances patient engagement and outcomes.

Table of Contents:

1. The Importance of a Personalized Approach to Stress Management
2. Understanding Individual Differences in Stress Responses
3. Building Resilience Against Stress
4. The 3 Stages of Stress Adaptation: Expanding Your Knowledge
5. Additional Resources

The Importance of a Personalized Approach to Stress Management

Understanding Individual Differences in Stress Responses

Building Resilience Against Stress

Additional Resources

References

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Kate Kresge, ND, is the Head of Medical Education at Rupa Health's Rupa University and Host of the Root Cause Medicine Podcast. She has advanced training in mind-body medicine and functional medicine approaches in mental health. Before joining Rupa, Dr. Kate was the founding Director of Functional Medicine at Sanare Today, a multi-location practice on the east coast of the U.S. that combines therapy, coaching, natural medicine and more to help people thrive. She is passionate about democratizing access to good medicine through low-cost interventions like nutrients, mindfulness and more. 

Kelly C. Heim, PhD, is a Senior Consultant of Medical Affairs at Pure Encapsulations® and Founder and Senior Science Editor at Integrative Pharmacology. He received his doctoral degree in pharmacology from Geisel School of Medicine at Dartmouth College and specializes in the pharmacology of natural compounds. Dr. Heim is a published author and illustrator of various studies, scholarly reviews and book chapters. He offers complementary learning resources on the basics of clinical pharmacology of natural products via his website, IntegrativePharmacology.com

Watch the Webinar

Angela D. Mazza, DO, ABAARM, FAAMFM, ECNU is triple board-certified in Endocrinology, Internal 
Medicine, and Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine and is a renowned thyroid specialist. She is 
founder of the Metabolic Center for Wellness in Oviedo, FL, the only center in Central Florida 
offering radiofrequency ablation procedures. Highly regarded for her individualized approach to 
patient care, Dr. Mazza is passionate about helping her patients achieve metabolic and hormonal 
balance and empowers each of them to achieve their unique goals through targeted interventions 
and lifestyle management. Dr. Mazza is author of Thyroid Talk: An Integrative Guide to Thyroid 
Health and hosts the podcast “Thyroid Talk with Dr. Angela Mazza.” 

+Dr. Mazza is a paid advisor for Pure Encapsulations. 

The Role of Neurotransmitters in Attention, Focus and Behavior

Key Points:

1. Approximately 6.76% of adults experience focus and attention related challenges.
2. Neurotransmitters such as dopamine, norepinephrine, serotonin and acetylcholine play crucial roles in managing focus-related tasks.
3. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and supplements can support neurotransmitter production and function. Consider food or supplements high in omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, magnesium and B vitamins for foundational support.^‡
4. Targeted supplements can support specific neurotransmitters that contribute to focus and attention: CogniPhos (acetylcholine), CurcumaSorb Mind (dopamine and serotonin) and DopaPlus (dopamine and norepinephrine).^‡

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Key Neurotransmitters Involved in Focus
3. Natural Ways to Support Neurotransmitter Balance
4. Conclusion
5. Resources

Introduction

Key Neurotransmitters Involved in Focus

Natural Ways to Support Neurotransmitter Balance^‡

Diet and Nutrition

Exercise

Supplements

• CogniPhos: A blend of clinically researched Cognizen^® citicoline, acetyl-L-carnitine, Sharp-PS^® phosphatidylserine and cofactors. Cognizen^® promotes daily cognitive performance and mental sharpness. ^9,10‡
• CurcumaSorb Mind: A curcumin and polyphenol blend to promote mood, memory and mental sharpness and support healthy levels of serotonin and dopamine. ^11‡
• DopaPlus: This formula provides the dopamine precursors L-tyrosine and L-DOPA (from Mucuna pruriens). DopaPlus supports dopamine production and maintains healthy reuptake for daily mental function and sharpness. ^{12, 13‡}
• Vitamin D + Magnesium: Vitamin D and Magnesium are both nutrients that play a role in the body’s nervous system. In a randomized-clinical trial, children supplemented with vitamin D and magnesium had a positive impact on and total difficulties compared to placebo after 8-weeks of supplementation.^14‡
• Fish oils:  are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acid. DHA, a fatty-acid in fish oil, is well recognized for its ability to support neural and cognitive function.  Epidemiological studies indicate that intake of DHA is associated with healthy cognitive function.^15‡
• Vitamin B₆: A coenzyme involved in the synthesis of neurotransmitters needed for synaptic transmission (e.g., dopamine, serotonin, GABA).^‡
• Pycnogenol®: A highly researched maritime pine bark extract, which contains a unique mixture of proanthocyanidins and other polyphenols. Clinical trials have shown that pycnogenol supports parameters related to attention in both children and adults. ^17-19‡

Conclusion

Resources

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Aging Gracefully: Harnessing NAD+ for Healthy Aging

Table of Contents

Introduction

Definition and Mechanisms of NAD+

• Cellular aging
• Energy metabolism
• DNA repair
• Formation of new mitochondria
• Calcium homeostasis
• Immune regulation
• Circadian rhythm
• Vascular activity
• Gene expression

The Making of NAD+

• de novo biosynthesis using l-tryptophan via the kynurenine pathway
• de novo biosynthesis via the Preiss-Handler pathway, using dietary sources of nicotinic acid, or nicotinic acid mononucleotide from the kynurenine pathway
• recycling of nicotinamide phosphoribosyltransferase (NAMPT) into NAD+ via the salvage pathway

NAD+ and Implications for Health and Aging

Approaches to Restore NAD+

Nutrient Solutions to Support NAD+ and Cellular Health

Pure Encapsulations® Nutrient Solutions

Summary

Resources