Mood and Brain Health

Our brain chemistry is directly influenced by our nutritional status as key nutrients are required for building receptors, neurotransmitters and other brain signalling molecules.  Getting nutrition right and addressing any underlying health issues can make a significant difference to how you feel.  Even just implementing regular eating patterns to avoid low blood sugars may greatly help to improve mood.

Assessing levels of nutrients and correcting deficiencies such as omega 3 and 6 (essential for brain structure and function), the B vitamins and minerals such as zinc and magnesium (required for build neurotransmitters such as serotonin and dopamine) and vitamin D (the sunshine vitamin now being linked not only to seasonal affective disorder (SAD) but also depression, schizophrenia and cognitive decline).

Laboratory assessments can help identify underlying biochemical factors linked to mood issues, for example, homocysteine, kryptopyrrole or histamine levels in blood or urine.

Hormones can also play a role - optimising thyroid may support mood for some people.  Supporting adrenal health (responsible for the production of cortisol and a range of other hormones) can lead to improved mood and feelings of wellbeing.  Balancing sex hormones such as oestrogen, progesterone and testosterone can also greatly impact how we feel. 

For example, the hormone oestrogen influences function of an enzyme, monoamine oxidase, which is responsible for the breakdown of serotonin, noradrenaline, adrenaline and dopamine.   Imbalances in these neurotransmitters are directly associated with mood disturbance.   Where hormonal issues are a factor, addressing through diet and nutrition, can help to shape a sustainable, natural solution to keeping us feeling good.

When working with with you, we are considering all these factors and more while taking a detailed health history. We will then recommend those tests which best fit your symptoms and circumstances.  We will work with you to create a nutrition programme which is both practical and achievable.