The Neuroendocrine Connection: Strategies for Complex Cases

Presented by Lylen Ferris, ND | October 1, 2025

Symptoms like anxiety, depression, cognitive impairments and attention deficits are commonly considered to be due to neurotransmitter imbalance, but a patient's symptoms rarely stem from imbalance in just one system. This lecture will investigate the role of various influences on the neuroendocrine system (i.e. sex and adrenal hormones, stress, GI health, inflammation, etc.) and obtain real time clinical knowledge for implementing a cohesive and successful approach with your patients.

There are complex interactions between hormones and neurotransmitters. It is essential to remove obstacles to cure, which are unique to each patient, when addressing hormone and neurotransmitter imbalances. A holistic approach is the most likely to result in good, long-lasting patient outcomes.

CHAPTERS:
00:00 Neuroendocrine Connection Overview
02:03 Symptoms Indicating Neurotransmitter Testing
03:29 Case Introduction: Molly's Story
04:55 Hormone and Neurotransmitter Test Results
05:26 Obstacles to Cure Explained
06:08 Stress and Neurotransmitter Impact
08:40 Oxygen, Circulation, and Brain Health
09:46 Digestion and Nutrient Absorption
11:10 Gluten Sensitivity and Brain Health
13:14 Nutrient Deficiencies from Gluten Issues
14:50 Key Nutrients for Neurotransmitter Support
16:28 Folate, Iron, and Zinc in Mental Health
18:58 Magnesium and Vitamin D Studies
22:08 Gut Microbiome and Brain Connection
24:06 Microbiome Imbalance and Mental Health
25:28 Probiotics and Vagus Nerve Influence
26:16 Leaky Gut and Neuroinflammation
27:04 Inflammation and the Brain
28:45 Depression as Inflammatory Condition
29:50 Importance of Omega-3s
30:56 Diet and Brain Function
33:04 Indigenous and Mediterranean Diet Benefits
34:00 Endocrine and Nervous System Interactions
35:06 Thyroid Dysfunction and Depression
36:46 Sex Hormones and Neurotransmitters
38:15 Estrogen and Serotonin Mechanisms
39:51 Testosterone, Dopamine, and Mood
41:03 Bi-Directional Hormone-Neurotransmitter Links
43:01 Managing Aggression in Testosterone Therapy
44:48 Serotonin’s Role in Stress Response
47:13 Stages of Stress and Neurotransmitter Depletion
51:17 Metabolic Syndrome and Neurotransmitter Activity
52:35 Case Review: Molly’s Treatment Strategy
56:19 Supplement and Hormone Support Details
59:01 Neurotransmitter and Gut Test Follow-Up
1:03:05 GI Test Findings and Interpretation
1:07:09 Herbal and Supplement Protocol
1:08:06 Fiber, Polyphenols, and Probiotics
1:09:36 Final Neurotransmitter and GI Improvements
1:11:07 Long-Term Plan and Maintenance
1:14:20 Final Thoughts and Conclusion