Researchers
have observed that the prevalence of mental health
disorders has increased in developed countries
in correlation with the deterioration of the Western
diet . Previous research has shown nutritional
deficiencies that correlate with some mental disorders.
The most common nutritional deficiencies seen
in mental disorder patients are of omega-3 fatty
acids, B vitamins, minerals, and amino acids that
are precursors to neurotransmitters. Compelling
population studies link high fish consumption
to a low incidence of mental disorders; this lower
incidence rate has proven to be a direct result
of omega-3 fatty acid intake. One to two grams
of omega-3 fatty acids taken daily is the generally
accepted dose for healthy individuals, but for
patients with mental disorders, up to 9.6 g has
been shown to be safe and efficacious. Western
diets are usually also lacking in fruits and vegetables,
which further contributes to vitamin and mineral
deficiencies.
Most
of us know that diet plays
a role in our general
health, it has also been
shown that specific foods
can enhance our chances
of avoiding certain diseases.
Everything
hinges on your fitness
levels. How fit you are
will determine how far
you go in achieving whatever
you have set out to achieve
in your lifetime.
