I've come to realize that what I put into my body has a huge impact on how I feel both mentally and physically. If you've read past posts on my blog, you probably realize I think that Omega 3 fatty acids are wonderful. I honestly believe it is like a wonder drug -- although all natural since basically you can get your omega 3s from fish, flax seed or walnuts.
Science Daily had a great article about how food affects the brain. The opening paragraph sums up a lot of what I try to focus on in my life.
In addition to helping protect us from heart disease and cancer, a balanced diet and regular exercise can also protect the brain and ward off mental disorders.
"Food is like a pharmaceutical compound that affects the brain," said Fernando Gómez-Pinilla, a UCLA professor of neurosurgery and physiological science who has spent years studying the effects of food, exercise and sleep on the brain. "Diet, exercise and sleep have the potential to alter our brain health and mental function. This raises the exciting possibility that changes in diet are a viable strategy for enhancing cognitive abilities, protecting the brain from damage and counteracting the effects of aging."
The article talks about the importance of vitamins, nutrients and minerals to your mental health ...
Here's the full article:
Scientists Learn How Food Affects The Brain: Omega 3 Especially Important