Brain Atrophy Responsible For Depression In People Battling Multiple Sclerosis

Brain Atrophy Responsible For Depression In People Battling Multiple Sclerosis: "- Sent using Google Toolbar"

People with MS face an additional challenge of depression brought on by atrophy of the brain's hippocampal region. The hippocampus helps regulate mood and memory.

"The researchers also found a relationship between this atrophy and hyperactivity of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, a complex set of interactions among three glands. The HPA axis is part of the neuroendocrine system that controls reactions to stress and regulates many physiological processes. It's thought that this dysregulation may play a role in the atrophy of the hippocampus and the development of depression."

My question is which came first, the disease or the stress? Many people today suffer from the effects of too much chronic stress from many sources. This is combined with environmental toxicity, poor dietary and sleep habits, a state of chronic dehydration from a lack of drinking adequate water, and a sedentary lifestyle. These factors are a killer. they don't kill right away because the body can put up with a lot. It may take decades but if the person is living this way by the time they've reached their 30s or 40s they are at risk. Remember that dysfunction (those little nagging symptoms) leads to disease! Dis-ease leads to disease.

Is brain atrophy from the MS or was it there before? The brain can atrophy for many reasons. Chronic lack of water, lack of sleep, lack of use, lack of exercise, lack of oxygen, or disease. We all know that muscles atrophy from disuse. Have you ever known someone who had a cast or a stroke? What happened to the muscle on the affected side after not using them for a while? "If you don't use it, you lose it!"

It's not too late for someone diagnosed with MS or any disease to start a healthier lifestyle.

*7 hours sleep
*2-3 liters or 64-80 0z of filtered water per day
*Include fruits and veggies in your diet! Eat plenty of greens!
*Get active, physically and mentally! Walking, swimming, biking, hiking, light weights....reading, chess, learn a new language, etc.
*Acquire a health care team including a M.D. knowledgeable in natural medicine, a clinical nutritionist, a chiropractor, a sports trainer, a massage therapist, and perhaps an acupuncturist