Serotonin, also known as 5-hydroxytryptamine, is one of the main brain chemicals for regulating mood and temperament in people. It is found in the brain, intestines and blood platelets, and it is involved in a variety of physiological processes, inc
A Layman’s Guide to Type 1 Diabetes
Type 1 diabetes, also known as juvenile diabetes, is an autoimmune disorder that occurs when the body's immune system mistakenly destroys insulin-producing cells in the pancreas. This lack of insulin makes the body incapable of regulating blood suga
A Layman’s Guide to Tryptophan
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that is used to make proteins. In the body, tryptophan is converted into serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and sleep. It is also converted into melatonin, a hormone that helps regulate the b
A Layman’s Guide to Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress is a condition in which the body's cells are exposed to an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants. Free radicals are molecules that are produced naturally when the body breaks down food, but they can also be caused by envi
A Layman’s Guide to Dementia
Dementia is a term used to describe a group of symptoms associated with a decline in cognitive functioning. It can cause difficulty with simple tasks, confusion, memory loss and difficulty communicating. It is most common in people over 65, but it ca
A Layman’s Guide to Vitiligo
Vitiligo is a skin condition that is characterised by patches of lighter skin that form due to loss of pigment. These patches are caused by the destruction of melanin, the pigment that gives skin its colour. Vitiligo can affect any part of the body,
A Layman’s Guide to Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological condition that affects your central nervous system. It is considered an autoimmune disease, which means your body's immune system mistakenly attacks your healthy cells. In the case of MS, the immune system a