Understanding Noradrenaline: The Hormone Behind Alertness and Its Impact on Health

Noradrenaline, also known as norepinephrine, is a crucial hormone and neurotransmitter that plays a central role in the body's fight-or-flight response. It's responsible for increasing alertness, focus, and energy when the body faces stress. But while noradrenaline is necessary for quick reactions and heightened awareness, an imbalance—either too much or too little—can lead to significant challenges, especially for those whose genetics predispose them to elevated levels.

In this post, we'll explore how noradrenaline impacts the body, what it looks like when you're living in a body driven by this hormone, and what genetic factors contribute to its regulation. We'll also discuss practical ways to balance noradrenaline levels through diet, lifestyle changes, and turning off gnes that may lead to excess production.

What is Noradrenaline?

Noradrenaline is produced primarily by the adrenal glands and certain neurons in the brain. It works by increasing heart rate, blood pressure, and the release of glucose for quick energy. In stressful situations, this hormone helps the body respond swiftly, making it vital for survival.

However, some individuals produce more noradrenaline than others due to their genetic makeup. High levels of noradrenaline can lead to hyperactivity, anxiety, difficulty relaxing, and issues with sleep. On the flip side, low levels can result in fatigue, depression, and difficulty concentrating.

What Do Bodies Driven by Noradrenaline Look Like?

People with high noradrenaline levels often have bodies that reflect their heightened state of energy and alertness. They may display some of the following characteristics:

• Restlessness: They may constantly fidget or feel a need to be moving, even in calm situations.

• Hyper-alertness: These individuals are always "on," often feeling on edge or jittery.

• Leanness: Due to the high-energy state induced by noradrenaline, their metabolism tends to be faster, often resulting in a leaner physique. They might struggle to gain weight, even with a high-calorie diet.

• Muscle tension: Chronically elevated noradrenaline can lead to tight muscles, particularly in the shoulders and neck. These individuals might frequently complain of tension headaches or neck pain.

While these bodies are designed for action and problem-solving, they also experience frequent periods of stress or anxiety. It’s important to recognize that these physical manifestations are tied to deeper biological and genetic mechanisms.

Genes Contributing to Elevated Noradrenaline

Several genes are responsible for the regulation of noradrenaline in the body. When certain genetic variants are present, they can lead to either heightened or diminished noradrenaline activity. Here are a few key genes involved:

COMT (Catechol-O-methyltransferase)

This gene is responsible for breaking down catecholamines, including noradrenaline, dopamine, and adrenaline. Variants in the COMT gene can slow the breakdown of these neurotransmitters, leading to prolonged stimulation and high noradrenaline levels . Individuals with the “slow” COMT gene variant (referred to as "warriors") may have a tendency toward anxiety and stress because their bodies hold on to noradrenaline longer.

DBH (Dopamine Beta-Hydroxylase)

This gene controls the enzyme that converts dopamine into noradrenaline. Variations in the DBH gene can result in overproduction of noradrenaline.

ADRA2A

This gene encodes the alpha-2 adrenergic receptor, which regulates the release of noradrenaline. Genetic variants that reduce the efficiency of this receptor can lead to higher circulating levels of noradrenaline.

These genetic variations can significantly impact how your body produces and manages noradrenaline, creating a predisposition toward higher levels and a more reactive nervous system.

Signs of Noradrenaline Imbalance

When noradrenaline is out of balance—especially when it's elevated—people may experience:

• Anxiety: Elevated noradrenaline levels keep the body in a constant state of readiness, leading to chronic anxiety, a feeling of being "on edge," and difficulty relaxing.

• Insomnia: Difficulty falling or staying asleep is common when noradrenaline levels are high, as the body struggles to power down at night.

• Increased heart rate: Excess noradrenaline can lead to heart palpitations, elevated heart rate, and even high blood pressure.

• Digestive issues: Since the body is in fight-or-flight mode, it diverts energy away from digestion, leading to issues like bloating, indigestion, or irregular bowel movements.

• Mental fatigue: While noradrenaline can enhance focus in short bursts, prolonged exposure can lead to mental fatigue, irritability, and even burnout.

How to Balance Noradrenaline

Balancing noradrenaline levels is crucial for mental and physical well-being, especially for those genetically predisposed to producing excess amounts. Here are some strategies:

Turn Off the Genes Contributing to High Noradrenaline

Certain lifestyle changes can "turn off" or reduce the activity of genes that contribute to high noradrenaline levels.

Stress management

Chronic stress can further activate the genes that increase noradrenaline production. Mindfulness practices, such as meditation and yoga, have been shown to reduce stress, lower cortisol, and help regulate noradrenaline levels .

• Exercise

While physical activity is important, people with high noradrenaline should focus on low-impact exercises like walking, yoga, or swimming, as high-intensity workouts may increase noradrenaline further. Moderate exercise helps regulate catecholamine levels and promotes overall balance .

Nutritional Support

Certain foods and nutrients can help to modulate noradrenaline production and support the body's ability to balance this hormone:

• Magnesium-rich foods

Magnesium is a natural relaxant that helps to calm the nervous system. Foods like spinach, almonds, and avocados are rich in magnesium and help reduce the effects of elevated noradrenaline .

• Vitamins

These vitamins, particularly B6 and B12, are essential for neurotransmitter regulation. Foods like whole grains, eggs, and leafy greens support the healthy metabolism of noradrenaline .

• Antioxidant-rich foods

Since high noradrenaline can lead to oxidative stress, it’s important to eat foods rich in antioxidants, such as berries, nuts, and dark chocolate, which help protect the brain and body from the damage caused by prolonged high noradrenaline levels .

Supplements and Herbs

Certain supplements and herbs can help to regulate noradrenaline levels and support a calm, focused state of mind.

• L-theanine

Found in green tea, this amino acid promotes relaxation without drowsiness and can help balance noradrenaline levels .

• Ashwagandha

This adaptogenic herb helps the body adapt to stress and can lower cortisol and noradrenaline levels, reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality .

• Phosphatidylserine

This phospholipid helps to reduce the cortisol response to stress, which can also help balance noradrenaline .

Sleep Hygiene

Sleep is essential for regulating noradrenaline levels, but individuals with high noradrenaline often have difficulty getting restorative sleep. Creating a sleep-friendly environment is key:

• Stick to a sleep schedule

Going to bed and waking up at the same time each day helps regulate your circadian rhythm.

• Limit blue light exposure

Avoid screens (phones, tablets, etc.) at least an hour before bed, as blue light disrupts melatonin production.

• Create a calming bedtime routine

Gentle yoga, reading, or listening to calming music can help signal to your body that it’s time to wind down and reduce noradrenaline activity.

What Happens When Noradrenaline is Balanced?

When noradrenaline is in balance, you’ll likely experience improved focus, a sense of calm energy, and the ability to handle stress effectively. Your body will no longer be in a constant state of alert, allowing for better sleep, clearer thinking, and more stable emotions. You’ll also notice less muscle tension, better digestion, and a general sense of well-being.

For individuals genetically predisposed to high noradrenaline levels, achieving balance is about more than just managing stress—it’s about optimizing your body’s natural tendencies. By understanding your genetics and how they contribute to noradrenaline production, you can make informed choices about your diet, lifestyle, and health practices to live in greater harmony with your body.

References:

1. Tunbridge, E. M., Harrison, P. J., & Weinberger, D. R. (2006). Catechol-o-methyltransferase (COMT) and psychosis. Schizophrenia Bulletin, 32(3), 497-508.

2. Cubells, J. F., & Zabetian, C. P. (2004). Human genetics of plasma dopamine β-hydroxylase activity: Applications to research in psychiatry and neurology. Psychopharmacology, 174(4), 463-476.

3. Lymperopoulos, A., Rengo, G., & Koch, W. J. (2013). Adrenergic nervous system in heart failure: Pathophysiology and therapy. Circulation Research, 113(6), 739-753.

4. Grover, S., & Malhotra, N. (2015). Pharmacological management of chronic stress-induced neuroendocrine changes. *Indian Journal of End