Neurotransmitters and psychedelics
For years, trip therapy has gone beyond mere therapeutic tripping. Based on a neurotransmitter test and intake, our clients receive advice on how to better balance their neurotransmitters through nutrition, supplements, and exercise. A recent study now shows for the first time in history that glutamate levels in the hippocampus play a significant role in whether a psychedelic journey is experienced as a good or bad trip. High glutamate levels are strongly correlated with a negative psychedelic experience. Therefore, proper preparation in terms of balancing neurotransmitters is not without merit.
Read the entire article here scientific research on psilocybin and glutamate
Glutamate and GABA
A reduced glutamate concentration in the hippocampus therefore results in a more positive psychedelic experience. Increasing the neurotransmitter GABA lowers glutamate concentration in the brain. This mechanism also works the other way around. People with low GABA have more glutamate and therefore more anxiety-related symptoms and a greater risk of a bad trip. Increasing GABA and thus lowering glutamate is therefore recommended for some individuals and can be achieved, for example, with supplements.
Read more about it here GABA and increasing this neurotransmitter
Eat less Glutamate?
Glutamate is an amino acid, a building block of proteins, and you therefore ingest it when you eat protein. Glutamate is used by our intestines as an energy source, and the glutamate that does enter the bloodstream has a very difficult time crossing the blood-brain barrier. Reducing glutamate and MSG (E621) therefore has a very limited effect, although it's probably best to avoid MSG. Ironically, glutamate is also the building block of GABA, which actually reduces glutamate activity in the brain. Therefore, reducing glutamate intake through food is pointless. Increasing GABA, on the other hand, is.
Set and setting are important
Set and setting also play a significant role in the impact of a psychedelic journey. Yet it's fascinating that everything actually matters when it comes to how we feel and how the psychedelic journey is experienced. There's really nothing to ignore, and simple substances like glutamate and GABA have such a profound influence on our emotions and consciousness. Are you also wondering what the question "who am I" means, when even these factors play a role in your state of mind and the choices you make?
We are happy to help
I'm passionate about understanding the connections between psychology and health through biochemical means and helping people. It's different from the standard approach in psychology; we are much more than just our minds, and that's why we strive for a holistic approach to maximize results. Would you also like to try the holistic approach we offer through trip therapy? We're ready to help.
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