Neurotransmitters are messengers that transmit specific chemical instructions from a neuron to another neuron and from neurons to tissues and organs. The 7 major neurotransmitters are: Neurotransmitters are produced by neurons and released in gaps that are found between neurons and between neurons and organs. These junctions are known as synapses. When neurotransmitters are released…
Vitamins are essential for the maintenance and function of cells, tissues, and organs of our body through their roles in the metabolism of carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Deficiency in vitamins results in disorders and diseases such as: I. Types of Vitamins and Their Function in the Body There are two types of vitamins: water-soluble and…
Being hungry is natural and can be due to increased physical activity or pregnancy. However, an increased appetite over a long period of time could be a result of mental health disorders or diseases: I. Hunger and Mental Disorders 1- Hunger, Stress, and Anxiety The link between appetite, stress, and anxiety is associated with the…
Chondrocalcinosis is a disease characterized by the accumulation of calcium phosphate crystals (Pyrophosphate) in the joints. It is mainly due to magnesium deficiency; however, it can also be related to other diseases and metabolic disorders. I. How is Pyrophosphate Produced in the joints? Chondrocytes are specialized cells that control the synthesis of cartilage, from collagen…
Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) can cause cardiovascular diseases through the following mechanisms: Approximately 34% of middle-aged men and 17% of middle-aged women are diagnosed with OSA [1]. The prevalence of OSA is estimated at 40% to 80% in patients with hypertension, coronary artery disease, heart failure (HF), atrial fibrillation (AF), pulmonary hypertension (PH), and stroke…
The immune system starts to become weak around the age of 60 years through a process known as immunosenescence. It is estimated that 2 billion people will have an age of over 60 by 2050 [1], and therefore, would be affected by immunosenescence. What Is Immunosenescence? Immunosenescence is the process of aging of our immune…
Emotionally unstable personality disorder or borderline personality disorder (BPD) is a personality disorder that affects impulse control, interpersonal relationships, and self-image. BPD is characterized by emotional dysregulation, impulsive aggression, repeated self-injury, and chronic suicidal tendencies. The prevalence of BPD is estimated to be 1.6% in the general population and 20% in the inpatient psychiatric population [1]. It…
Schizophrenia is a complex and severe mental health disorder that is classified as a type of psychosis. It is characterized by significant alterations in thoughts, perception, mood, and behaviors. The causes are not well known; however, it was suggested that the causes may be associated with a cognitive decline due to alterations in brain development,…
Energy drinks are one of the most consumed dietary supplements that are popular among men between the ages of 18-34 years and teens between the ages of 12-17 years. They contain large amounts of caffeine, sugars, taurine, B vitamins, glucuronolactone, carnitine, ginseng, Yohimbe, and bitter orange. Although energy drinks may enhance alertness and improve reaction…
Iron Deficiency is the most common cause of anemia in the elderly. It is due to abnormalities in the gastrointestinal tract such as stomach ulcers and cancer, and the reduction in iron supply through diet. It manifests with a reduced size and color of red blood cells. The prevalence of iron deficiency in individuals older…
