A complete blood count (CBC) is a test that looks at your body’s different types of cells. It can detect many diseases and conditions and may help your doctor treat them.
CBC may also help to diagnose depression and anxiety. Some studies have shown that low levels of a protein in the blood called brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) are linked to depression and bipolar disorder.
Increases Serotonin Levels
The monoamine neurotransmitter serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine (5-HT), plays a crucial role in brain function. It involves the mood, sleep, appetite, anxiety, and digestion.
Antidepressants can boost serotonin levels by inhibiting the brain’s reabsorption and recycling of serotonin. Several drugs are used:
- Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)
- Serotonin-norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors (SNRIs)
- Tricyclic antidepressants
- Monoamine oxidase inhibitors
Researchers are also looking into the possibility that certain herbs and plant extracts can help to boost serotonin levels naturally. Some of these include adaptogens like ginseng and ashwagandha. However, the research is still early; you must consult your doctor before supplementing.
Increases Dopamine Levels
Once you buy CBC, it could benefit you as an anti-inflammatory with significant pain-reducing, antiviral, anti-tumor, and bone-growth-stimulating properties. It has also been found to increase dopamine levels, which may help treat anxiety.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that influences your mood and motivates you to perform specific tasks. Your body regulates it, but you can help your body produce more dopamine by eating a balanced diet and taking supplements that are high in iron, niacin, folate, and vitamin B6.
In addition to raising serotonin, CBC also increases dopamine. This could be useful in treating depression and anxiety, and it combines with THC and CBD to deliver a mood-boosting entourage effect. CBC has also been found to reduce oxidative stress, which could help reduce the risk of cancer and other serious diseases.
Increases Norepinephrine Levels
If you have depression, your doctor may prescribe an antidepressant, such as a serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitor (SNRI). These drugs work by altering the levels of these neurotransmitters.
In the same way, SSRIs are used to treat depression; they are also sometimes prescribed to treat anxiety and nerve pain. However, it’s essential to understand that they have side effects and can cause other medical problems if taken incorrectly or with other medications.
The first thing your doctor can do is a test for other medical conditions that might be causing your symptoms of depression or anxiety. This can help them make a more accurate diagnosis and start you on the right path to healing.
Increases GABA Levels
CBC increases neurotransmitter gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) levels, known for its ability to calm anxiety. This is because it stimulates an area in the brain called the thalamus, which produces a surge in GABA.
CBC may help treat anxiety by raising GABA levels and boosting serotonin. The latter may be helpful for people who cannot take SSRIs or whose symptoms don’t improve with these drugs.
Increases Oxytocin Levels
In addition to being an essential hormone in bonding with our loved ones, oxytocin also appears to boost mood and sexual arousal. Oxytocin is released when people feel stressed and helps to calm them down.
It can also speed up labor and move milk from the breast to the nipple. However, some people have low oxytocin levels or experience a lack of it altogether.
In this study, researchers measured oxytocin levels in men with high-arousal disorders before and after they underwent seven weeks of CBT to reduce hypersexual behaviors. The results showed that the men saw a significant drop in plasma levels after treatment.