Brain Nutrition

Nutrition influences brain function in a variety of ways. The brain disturbances of an alcoholic, unstable diabetic, pellagra victim, or elderly patient with vitamin B₁₂ and/or folic acid deficiency are all recognized examples of nutritional mental illnesses. Vitamin deficiency is always a concern with brain dysfunction, and the risk of deficiency increases as mental disorder increases. B-vitamins play a critical role in brain function. Vitamin B₁₂ deficiency is a notable cause of numbness, tingling, in coordination, and impaired cognitive function. Niacin deficiency presents as dementia, dermatitis, and diarrhea. Thiamine deficiency causes cognitive dysfunction and is fully expressed in malnourished alcoholics as Wernicke's psychosis. Vitamin-mineral supplementation is always a desirable component of nutritional therapy, although high doses of individual nutrients are only desirable in acute deficiency states.

Our emphasis is always on correct proportioning of nutrient intake - the right molecules at the right place at the right time. Sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium are the key mineral ions in the brain and must be maintained in critical balance. Low calcium levels produce, painful muscle contractions with dizziness, confusion, and even seizures. Hyperventilation causes a sudden drop in blood calcium levels that produces tetany.

Magnesium can reduce brain irritation and block seizures during alcohol withdrawal and toxemia during pregnancy. Extra calcium and magnesium tend to have a calming effect and are safe to take in supplemental form. Potassium intake is often deficient and increased potassium intake is desirable. Sugars and sodium salts are used in moderation.

Protein intake is carefully considered because of the many possibilities for ingested protein to cause nervous system disease through biochemical and immune misadventures. Most food-input problems can be avoided by replacing food with an elemental nutrient formula ( Alpha ENF). We can expect brain function to settle into a more stable, more functional state within 10 days.

(Source from brain center)