The brain controls and regulates most of the vital functions of the body, whether consciously or unconsciously. For this reason, it is necessary for the brain to receive a constant supply of energy and oxygen. Energy is obtained by metabolizing the nutrients available in the bloodstream, which originate in the digested food.
According to the medical news-medical website, the brain consumes 20% of daily calories, which is about 400 calories per day, and structurally about 60% of the brain is fat, consisting of high cholesterol and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Thus, the food we eat is directly related to the structure and function of the brain.
How does food affect our minds?
Several studies have found that diets rich in refined sugars are toxic to brain function because the high content of simple sugars stresses the pancreas and stimulates insulin resistance.
High levels of sugar combined with compensatory insulin responses stimulate the counter-reactive rush of autonomic neurotransmitters such as cortisol and glucagon that increase feelings of stress. Moreover, they stimulate inflammatory stress and oxidative stress, which contribute to increased symptoms of depression and mood disorders.
Mood disorders:
Doctors confirmed that a lack of nutrients such as cobalamin, folate and zinc is associated with symptoms of depression, dementia and cognitive decline.
Overeating and food insecurity are also linked to mood and anxiety disorders, with mental illness being among the world’s biggest health problems, especially depression, which accounts for the bulk of disability in more developed countries.
Serotonin and the gut:
Serotonin is a mono-neurotransmitter that helps control sleep and appetite, suppress pain, and regulate mood. About 95% of serotonin is produced in the gut rich in neurons. Thus, the gut is intimately involved in emotional regulation, pain perception and vital physiological functions.
Dietary fats and brain function:
Anti-inflammatory fats such as omega-3 fatty acids are known to be essential components of nerve cell membranes, where they also play a role in many neurological processes.
Omega-3 fatty acids are used to treat a number of psychiatric disorders, including ADHD, depression, bipolar disorder and post-traumatic stress disorder, with high levels of omega-3s being associated with a higher incidence of these conditions.