by Dr. Michael Murray | May 23, 2012 | Natural Facts, Supplements, Treatments and Research
Background: 5-Hydroxytryptophan (5-HTP) is an amino acid that is the middle step between tryptophan and the important brain chemical serotonin. Considerable scientific evidence indicates that low serotonin levels are linked to a number of common conditions including...
by Dr. Michael Murray | May 20, 2012 | Health Conditions
What is Premenstrual Syndrome? Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a recurrent condition of women, characterized by troublesome symptoms seven to fourteen days before menstruation. Typical symptoms include: decreased energy level, tension, irritability, depression,...
by Dr. Michael Murray | May 20, 2012 | Health Conditions
What is Irritable Bowel Syndrome? Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) is a functional disorder of the large intestine with no evidence of accompanying structural defect. IBS is characterized by some combination of abdominal pain or distension; altered bowel function,...
by Dr. Michael Murray | May 20, 2012 | Health Conditions
What is Insomnia? Insomnia refers to a difficulty in achieving or maintaining normal sleep. There are two basic forms of insomnia. In sleep-onset insomnia a person has a difficult time falling asleep. In sleep-maintenance insomnia a person suffers from frequent or...
by Dr. Michael Murray | May 20, 2012 | Health Conditions
What is Hypoglycemia? Hypoglycemia refers to low blood sugar. Normally, the body maintains blood sugar levels within a narrow range through the coordinated effort of several glands and their hormones. If these control mechanisms are disrupted, hypoglycemia (low blood...
by Dr. Michael Murray | May 20, 2012 | Health Conditions
What are Gallstones? Gallstones are round or oval, smooth or faceted lumps of solid matter found in the gallbladder (the sac under the liver where bile is stored and concentrated). Gallstones may be without symptoms or may be associated with periods of intense pain in...