Key nutrients for mental health throughout the later years.

Key nutrients for mental health throughout the later years.

By Tessa Zangiacomi, Naturopath

 

 At Cranbourne Family Chiropractic and Wellness Centre we believe health should start from the inside out.

One of the best nutrients for brain health is Essential fatty acids. They are important for cell- tissue communication as it keeps the cellular membranes and myelin sheath’s fluidity therefore messages will be communicated more effectively. It has also been associated with better memory and clearer thinking.

Other nutrients such as B vitamins also play a crucial role in mental health. B vitamins help brain cells transmit information by assisting with the production of neurotransmitters like dopamine and serotonin.

In particular B12 is important for brain health. As we age the demand for B12 increases. This B Vitamin is important for the myelination of nerves and brain fibres.

A deficiency of B12 can lead to deterioration of the brain and degeneration of the myelin sheath. This can be very detrimental to the brain’s ability to function properly, affecting your ability to think. Deficiencies have also been linked to dementia, depression and memory loss. Another important vitamin is folic acid. Folic acid. enhances blood levels of omega-3 and essential fatty acids. Folic acid and B12 deficiencies are key factors leading to cognitive decline, Alzheimer's Disease, and stroke.

Folic acid and B12 also play a role in regulating the amount of homocysteine in the blood. high blood levels of homocysteine are associated with an increased risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Excesses amounts can also predispose someone to atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis may end up compromising blood supply to the brain, and is a risk factor for diminishing brain function and dementia in later life.

Preventative supplements such as antioxidants will protect nerve cell damage and may delay or stop the progression of Alzheimer's. Antioxidants fight free radicals. Free radicals can damage a cells surface, structure and function. Oxidative stress caused by free radicals may also cause inflammation in the brain. Some important antioxidants include vitamin C, Vitamin A, Selenium and Vitamin E. A High intake of Vitamin E has been linked to a lower rate of cognitive decline.

Other antioxidants that are made in the body include. Lipoic acid, glutathione, superoxide, dismutase, catalase, enzyme Q10. Lipoic acid is unique in its ability to extend the life of other antioxidants. 

Acetyl-L-Carnitine may also have a significant capacity to slow and reverse the effects of aging on the brain,. It may help people to think clearly and to remember. This nutrient enhances the production of acetylcholine, an important neurotransmitter that is vital for intracellular communication. Acetyl-l-carnitine will improve the activity of acetylycholine and dopamine in the brain, thereby improving memory. 

Why not make an appointment with one of our Naturopaths to find out more. Call 59984554