Hormonal Optimization

Endorphins reduce pain and elevate mood via mu-opioid receptors. Understand their mechanism, release triggers, and why runner’s high is contested.

BDNF drives neuronal survival, synaptic plasticity, and adult neurogenesis. A 29-study meta-analysis confirms aerobic exercise reliably raises it.

Oestrogen is a family of steroid hormones governing reproduction, bone density, and cognition. Covers its three active forms and hormone therapy evidence.

GABA is the brain’s primary inhibitory neurotransmitter. Definition, receptor mechanisms, and what the evidence shows about GABA supplementation.

Ghrelin is the peptide hunger hormone that peaks before meals, rises with sleep loss, and drives intake. Definition, mechanism, and practical levers.

Glutamate, the brain’s principal excitatory neurotransmitter, drives learning, memory, and LTP via NMDA and AMPA receptors. Excess causes excitotoxicity.

Growth hormone (GH) is a pituitary polypeptide released mainly during sleep. It drives tissue repair via IGF-1 and declines after the third decade.

The HPA axis coordinates the stress response via a hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal cascade. Chronic overactivation degrades cognition and immune defence.

Insulin is a peptide hormone that coordinates blood glucose uptake and storage. Learn what it does, what insulin resistance is, and why exercise matters.

Norepinephrine is the brain’s arousal and attention regulator. Definition, locus coeruleus mechanism, ADHD pharmacology, and performance applications.