BRAIN AND NERVIOUS SYSTEM

As we age our brain and nervous system function can begin to decline. Short and long term memory loss, poor concentration, mood disorders and even early onset dementia and Alzheimer’s disease can all be attributed to poor nervous system health. These symptoms not only affect our brain function but can be incredibly frustrating and affect our quality of life. Looking after your nervous system is therefore one of the most important preventative measures you can take to look after your long term health. By providing your brain with the essential nutrients it needs on a daily basis you can help to maintain the health of nerve cells for optimal performance.
Our bodies, including our brain, find it harder to absorb nutrients with age, therefore it is important to increase your supplementation over time to include a high performance multi-vitamin – in a format that will meet both short term and long term nutritional requirements. When combined with a healthy diet, additional nutrient supplementation ensures that you do not miss out on any of the key nutrients that your brain requires to function at its peak. As some nutrients play a greater role in nervous system health than others it is vital that a quality multivitamin will contain antioxidants (e.g.: Vitamin A, C and E), amino acids and other essential nutrients such as the B vitamins and minerals.
In addition to a daily multivitamin there is much evidence to support a high intake of Omega 3 fatty acids. These essential nutrients cannot be made by the body and so must be provided via the diet and/or supplementation. Omega 3 fatty acids are well documented as key nutrients for brain health maintenance and development.
Omega 3 fatty acids can be broken down into EPA & DHA. DHA is known to be more beneficial for brain function, while EPA is utilized more in inflammatory conditions and for heart and cardiovascular health. DHA is considered an essential structural component of brain cells. A deficiency in Omega 3 fats – particularly in DHA has been linked to a multitude of health problems including: poor concentration and memory; early onset dementia and Alzheimer’s disease; poor nervous system function; mood disorders including anxiety and depression and in children behavioural issues may be present. Consuming 2-3 portions a week of oily fish in your diet can help improve the overall health of your nervous system, while including fish oil supplements in your diet is an excellent way to avoid an Omega 3 deficiency and even to treat some nervous system disorders.
Other actions you can take to keep your brain sharper for longer are to exercise it regularly. Try to undertake tasks such as crossword puzzles and Sudoku to improve cognition, concentration, memory and focus. Using your brain to solve problems will help ensure your mental abilities are optimal and have even been trialed to prevent/slow the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
In summary, combined with a healthy diet a multivitamin, Omega 3 supplement and brain activities are the easiest ways to protect the health and function of your nervous system.