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How your food may affect your Mental Health

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Dr Pete Njoku, MD, FRCS, FRSM Eng.



Do you find yourself depressed often?

It might be due to food and environmental toxins accumulating in your body.

Environmental, topical and food toxins attack the central nervous system and settle there. 

These toxins cause our brain tissues to become overly sensitive.

Artificial sweetener - Aspartame

The very common artificial additive called aspartame found in low calorie drinks and shakes maybe making you depressed.

Aspartame releases toxins in the body that are linked to extreme depression.

A 2013 scientific study published in Neurology, studied the effect of sweetened drinks in American adults. It concluded that drinks containing aspartame caused a higher risk of depression.

Pesticides

A 2002 scientific study, published in the Annals of Epidemiology reported high clinical depression in Colorado farmers and their spouses exposed to environmental toxins via pesticides.

Unfortunately some of these food contaminants would not appear on the label. Another good reason to go organic.

The common use of insecticides as mosquito repellents in Malaria endemic regions of Africa may result in this undesirable side effect.

What can you do about it?

1. B vitamins 

Multivitamin preparations high in the B complex vitamins help neutralise toxins from pesticides.

2. Antioxidants

Antioxidants from fresh fruits and vegetables protect your body from toxins, allowing your kidneys to get rid of them. It is recommended we take a minimum of five portions a day.

3. Exercise.
The strain of exercise causes an increase in the release of naturally occurring hormones, endorphins in the brain. Endorphins have a euphoric effect and make you feel good.

4. Water

Keep well hydrated and give your kidneys the chance to excrete the toxins. A minimum of 2 liters a day depending on the season and physical activity.

5. Omega-3 fatty acids 

The addition of Oily fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids can be beneficial. 

Several studies have demonstrated that omega 3 fatty acids via natural sources or supplements have a mood uplifting effect.


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