Other Research...

*This is late because i was sick and unaware that a blog was due

First, i looked at Abry's blog. It was about allergies, and the reaction they have with the body. I was really glad he told me about the word "allergy" and its greek roots. Now, if i have a random contest with someone, i will be able to tell them exactly where the word allergy comes from. Unfortunately, I suffer from some sort of allergic reaction in the fall and the spring, although i am not actually allergic. But now i know that the body thinks these harmless things are actually harmful. And that is the reason for sneezing, watery eyes, swelling, etc. Luckily, Immunoglobin E releases some antibodies that can attack it. I enjoyed reading this blog, but i am looking forward to hopefully understanding why i get the same reactions as people that are allergic, but i am not actually allergic to anything.

Next, i looked at Hunter's blog. He is talking about tryptophan and its positive and negative effects on the body. Although i heard it was a myth, tryptophan contributes to the sleepiness we feel after big meals such as Thanksgiving where we eat turkey in particular. However, it is used to many people's advantage as it is an antidepressant. It also helps with insomnia, which is obvious because it puts people to sleep as well. I personally liked that it could relieve headaches, because i suffer from almost daily headaches. Tryptophan is also classified as an amino acid, and you said take it with a carbohydrate such as fruit juice to satisfy the body's needs. Make sure not to take too much of this chemical because it is toxic in high doses. It also should never be taken on an empty stomach.

Then, i looked at Laura's blog. She is looking at the effect of colleges on chemical imbalances. Once i realized that it does not happen to everyone, i was able to read the passage without being completely scared. I was scared because she mentioned that college students suffer from depression, schizophrenia, and eating disorders more than almost anyone else. This is due to chemical imbalances caused by the stress of a new environment...and everything else that college offers. I am curious to read on anything else she discovers, as this topic seems very new to society and the news.