In a break from the norm, this newsletter will focus on anxiety. In this time of uncertainty and financial loss the levels of anxiety in both my Hepatitis C patients as well as the general clinic traffic is unprecedented.  A very simple solution called Zen has proved remarkably effective.  Zen is a combination of L-Theanine and GABA.

I first used this product with my own mother last fall.  She was waking up in the middle of the night, with chest pounding unevenly, afraid that she was dying.  All and I mean all medical tests showed her heart was fine, though her IRA’s were all heavily damaged.  My normal repertoire of anxiety remedies helped some, but essentially failed to quiet the beast, so I tried Zen.  According to my mother it is a pleasant experience with absolutely no harshness, no side effects that works very well.

L-Theanine is an amino acid found almost exclusively in nature in tea plants (Camellia Sinensis). Now it can also be produced by enzymatic process. Research has demonstrated at least two different mechanisms for the sense of relaxation that L-Theanine produces.  First it directly stimulates the production of alpha brain waves, creating a state of deep relaxation and mental alertness typical to what can be achieved by meditation.  Second it helps make the inhibitory neurotransmitter GABA.  GABA in turn influences the levels of both dopamine and serotonin.

GABA is the most important and widespread inhibitory neurotransmitter in the central nervous system. One of the four main neurotransmitters, it keeps the others in check. It regulates neuronal excitability as well as it increases muscle tone; quieter nerves, stronger muscles. Too much excitation can lead to restlessness, irritability, insomnia, and even seizures.  Other symptoms that can be caused by GABA deficiency are headaches, hypertension, palpitations, low libido, and heart disorders.  If you like Valium or some of the other Benzos you will love Zen.  GABA is also involved in the production of endorphins, brain chemicals that create the sense of well-being.