Are your nutrient levels normal? An imbalance could be damaging your mental health

( Natural News ) In recent years, the number of people suffering from mental illnesses like depression and anxiety has dramatically increased. Those who suffer from these conditions spend millions of dollars on prescription medications and therapy, but they tend to ignore one of the most important things when it comes to mental and physical health: nutrition. Many studies suggest that nutrients are essential for preventing mental health disorders . People who follow a healthier diet — which includes vegetables, fruits, meat, fish, and whole grains — have better mental health than those who eat high amounts of processed foods, refined grains, and added sugars. Unfortunately, when people suffer from mental health problems, they often neglect self-care, putting nutrition in the back seat — when it should be front and center. This only makes their condition worse, causing them to turn to expensive medications and therapy — when they could change their nutritional intake, which is cheaper and more convenient than conventional treatments. Nutrients for good mental health Many essential nutrients are important for maintaining overall health. Among these, the following nutrients are especially beneficial for mental health: Omega-3 — These fatty acids improve mental health by strengthening the connections between brain cells, so they can easily communicate with each other. Omega-3 also reduces brain inflammation, which can lead to impaired function. There are two major types of omega-3 fatty acids , namely eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), with the latter being more beneficial but less abundant in food. Foods that contain DHA are salmon, mackerel, herring, and other fatty fish. In addition to these, walnuts and avocados, have omega-3 fatty acids that can be converted into DHA. Amino acids — Amino acids are involved in the production of chemicals called neurotransmitters that are used by the […]

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