B happy
B complex vitamins are essential for the maintenance and
efficient function of healthy nerve and brain cells. Often involved
in the production of several brain chemical messengers, B vitamins
are crucial to the production of dopamine, commonly associated with
the pleasure system of the brain that provides feelings of
enjoyment. Often a deficiency in vitamins B1, B2 and B3 can promote
feelings of irritability and depression.
Laugh it off
Laughter really is the best medicine, as its production is
linked with the areas of the brain that release endorphins. These
are ‘feel good’ chemicals that resemble opiates in
their ability to act as a painkiller and promote feelings of
well-being. In addition to the manufacture of endorphins, laughter
can serve to decrease the level of stress-related hormones present
in the body and consequently help to relieve stress.
Positivity in a capsule
Omega 3 essential fatty acids lubricate brain cell membranes and
assist in the efficient transfer of nerve impulses as well as
supporting nerve repair and growth. Not only has recent research
discovered a direct correlation of omega 3 intake and the national
measure of mental health between countries, but supplementation of
fish oils can reduce anger, fatigue, anxiety and depression. One
trial testing the effect of concentrated omega 3 fats on people
suffering from depression found that by the third week, those
patients taking omega 3 showed a major improvement in their mood
compared to those on a placebo.
High Five
5-HTP is a natural substance made in the body as a precursor to
the production of serotonin which helps to regulate mood and sleep.
It can be found in foods such as turkey and cheese but is also used
in supplements as an extract from the seeds of the Griffonia plant.
Supplementing your diet with 5-HTP helps you to maintain serotonin
levels in your brain and thus combat a low mood.
Soak up some rays
Ever noticed that you have more energy and feel happier when the
sun shines? That’s because bright light immediately activates
production of the brain chemical messenger, serotonin which helps
to regulate mood. Low levels have been associated with feelings of
anxiety, apathy and depression. It also helps to suppress excess
melotonin production, associated with irritability and sadness.
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