Integritus Prime

I’ve blogged before about diet and productivity. It’s something I’ve noticed in my clients and myself, and the research is solid when it comes to plant-based diets in particular and human health (climate change too – read about that if that’s your jam). There are many reasons to choose plant-based foods – biodiversity loss, forest destruction, animal rights, human health, water scarcity, land degradation, and climate change.

Last week I wrote about patriotism and what that means in action if we define it as “caring”. The other day I interviewed Panapasa Daunakamakama, the CEO of Juice Fiji on Fiji Day, discussing the benefits of his organic product and how patriotism simply means loving each other. I learned that profound wisdom from his elders is bottled for your gut health – check out the interview. As it turns out, gut health impacts our mental health more than we realize. Research is now suggesting that certain nutrients, including probiotics, are associated with better mental health. Here’s how:

1. Inflammation in the brain ultimately causes the death of brain cells. Inflammation begins in the gut and is related to a lack of nutrients like magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, probiotics, as well as vitamins and minerals that are crucial for the optimum functioning of the human body.
2. Recent research suggests that zinc, magnesium, omega 3, and vitamins B and D3 can help boost our mood, reduce anxiety and depression, and improve the mental condition of people who have Alzheimer’s. Those who are plant-based tend to take a supplement for D3.
3. Magnesium is an essential mineral for wellness, but many people are lacking in it. A study found that a daily magnesium citrate supplement significantly relieved depression and anxiety, regardless of age, gender or the severity of the person’s depression. Importantly, improvement did not persist when people stopped taking the supplement. Green leafy veggies, fruits, and nuts offer good sources of magnesium.
4. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for the development and function of the central nervous system. Insufficient omega-3s  is correlated with poor mood, cognitive decline, and poorer comprehension. You can get your omega-3s from flaxseeds.
5. Probiotics also improve mental health. A daily serving of probiotics was found to be associated with a significant reduction in depression and anxiety. Vitamin B complex and zinc are also found to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression. Try some sauerkraut or plant-based yogurt to get your fill of probiotics.

So, be sure to include these nutrients in your diet, and enjoy better mental health.

Next week we focus on diet and lifestyle improvements for heart health, as part of our upcoming webinar with Genuine Loving Outstanding Women (GLOW). Stay tuned and let us know if you have questions.

One of the most important foods for gut health and therefore mental health is sauerkraut, shown here served with some of our vegetable biryani.