CysReplete is a very simple formula; it contains L-cysteine, selenium and folate. However, just because CysReplete only has a few ingredients doesn’t mean it isn’t extremely important in the management of neurotransmitter imbalances. This three part series will help explain why CysReplete is so important in the proper management of neurotransmitter imbalances.
As seen below, the administration of amino acids in improper balance can cause further depletion and/or imbalance in the system. We have discussed the proper use of 5-HTP, tyrosine and L-dopa in many previous posts. Here we will highlight the need for the optimal dose of sulfur amino acids.
Figure used with permission from Marty Hinz, MD.
The use of cysteine, selenium and folate in CysReplete are used to prevent depletion of the Methylation cycle (as known as the methionine-homocysteine cycle) shown below.
Figure used with permission from Mary Hinz, MD.
Looking at the two figures above, sulfur amino acids are depleted from the system through a number of routes. First, is through the production of glutathione. Glutathione is the main antioxidant produced and used by the body to control free-radical damage. This helps us fend off the negative effects from the toxins that we are exposed to everyday. Unfortunately, the toxic load (from pollution, drugs/medications, alcohol, tobacco, food additives, preservatives, colors, excess sugar, artificial sweeteners, soda, etc.) we are exposed to has risen faster than the capacity for many of us to properly handle and which causes a massive depletion of sulfur amino acids.
In addition, the administration of L-dopa leads to depletion of S-adenosyl-methionine (SAMe) which acts as a methyl donor in many important reactions and is part of the methionine-homocysteine cycle (which, amongst other things, helps maintain healthy homocysteine and glutathione levels).
In addition, proper levels of SAMe are needed in order for norepinephrine to be converted into epinephrine. Norepinephrine and epinephrine are necessary for proper adrenal function. The adrenals are vital to help the body adequate deal with stress. Long term stress or severe acute stress can overwhelm this system and cause a massive depletion of sulfur amino acids. This is a very common condition due to the high emotional & physical stress many of us face on a day-to-day basis, as well as the highly processed, high sugar/fat diets many people follow.
All of this leads to a depletion of sulfur amino acids and a breakdown in the methylation cycle. Part 2 in this series will discuss the vital role methylation plays in health.
