Feeding Smart from the Start to Prevent Neurological Glitches

The brain is one of the most important and delicate organs in the human body. Neurological glitches are those issues caused by a dysfunction of the brain or nervous system and result in psychological or physical symptoms depending on the area of the brain involved, leading to disorders. Neurological disorders have a broad range and can have various causes, complications, symptoms, and results. Symptoms like constant dizziness or weakness that appears suddenly without any explanation or cause can be indications of neurological conditions.

Many neurological disorders affect the pediatric population. Autism, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, brain injury, and headache are the most common neurological disorders seen amongst children. Each disorder and the symptoms associated with it vary in an individual. With the help of the right nutrition from the start, one can prevent neurological glitches in later life.

So, here are few ways you can avoid neurological glitches by proper nutritional interventions of these brain-boosting nutrients for the brain to work efficiently:

• Omega-3 Fatty acids: These fats help in the important role that lets the brain function well and its development. Popularly found in varieties of fish, it helps in the brain function of people suffering from memory loss. Also found in flaxseeds, chia seeds, walnuts, and olive oil.
• Vitamin K: Cognitive function and brain power are very much dependent on Vitamin K for optimal performance. Vitamin K can be found in broccoli, leafy greens, vegetables like spinach and collard greens, basil, and even chilli powder!
• Zinc: Zinc plays a vital role in enhancing memory and thinking ability. Also, zinc plays a large role in strengthening the immune system and cell growth. Pumpkin seeds can provide a daily dose of zinc, but they can also be found in dark chocolate, potatoes, lamb, and seafood.
• Vitamin B-12: Important for the better working of nerves and deficiency of B-12 can lead to nerve damage and impaired brain function. Foods rich in B-12 are eggs, milk, and meat.
• Vitamin B-9: It helps in lowering the levels of serotonin (a type of neurotransmitter) in the brain. Folic acid-rich foods are green leafy vegetables, chickpeas, yeast, liver, asparagus, and broccoli.
• Vitamin B-1: It is important as it helps nerves and the brain to communicate better. B-1 is also important for the metabolism of glucose (sugar level). Glucose is a primary energy source and promotes growth and muscle tone too. Foods should be consumed like legumes, nuts, seeds, and whole grains.
• Choline: Choline speeds up the creation and release of acetylcholine, a protein that carries signals among brain cells and is important for memory and proper brain functions. Foods that are rich in choline are peanuts, eggs, and spinach.
• Antioxidant-rich vitamins like vitamin C and E protect the neuron damage caused by certain foods and the stress caused by brain injury. Foods like berries (strawberries, blueberries, blackberries) and broccoli are best for you.
• Keep track of your water intake. It is advised to drink an ample amount of water daily as in case of dehydration-slight mental impairment can occur.

Over to you:

Diet is vital for your brain health in more ways than one. After all, what you choose to eat ultimately affects your mental health. A proper and balanced diet that includes a variety of foods like vegetables, fruits, and whole grains should be consumed and one should also opt for meat, fish, beans, low-fat dairy products for optimal brain health in preventing neurological disorders.