The nervous system is a network of nerves and cells that send and receive messages from the brain and spinal cord to various parts of the body. The nervous system is essential for breathing, digestion, temperature regulation, and movement control. Pain or loss of muscle control may result from poor nerve health. Because the nervous system performs vital functions, it is critical to strengthen the nerves in order to live a healthy life. A nutritious diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, and whole grains can help to strengthen the nerves. Here are some foods that help maintain a healthy nervous system.
1. Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, sardines, mackerel, and trout aid in nerve protection. The two types of omega-3 fatty acids that keep the nervous system healthy by maintaining nerve cell membranes are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) and eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA). Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown in studies to help repair and maintain neural circuits that are important for learning, memory, and locomotion. In general, omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish have a high neuroprotective potential, meaning they can help mitigate the effects of neurologic injuries.
2. Nuts
Almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, and walnuts are high in magnesium, which is essential for a healthy nervous system. Magnesium helps the body produce serotonin, which relaxes the nervous system and improves mood. Magnesium deficiency can affect neurotransmitters, which help nerve cells communicate with one another. Thus, magnesium-rich foods such as nuts should be included in the diet to improve nerve health. Nuts contain vitamin B1 (thiamin), which aids in nerve and brain function. Thiamin deficiency can impair the production of neurotransmitter amino acids like glutamate and aspartate. Macadamia nuts, pecans, and Brazil nuts are high in vitamin B1.
3. Green Tea
Green tea contains catechins like epigallocatechin-gallate, epicatechin, and epicatechin-3-gallate. These compounds may aid in the prevention of cognitive decline as people age. Long-term consumption of green tea has been shown in studies to have the potential to reverse the degenerative effects of ageing in the brain. Green tea has a calming effect on the nervous system due to the presence of L-theanine, an amino acid. It raises dopamine and serotonin levels and induces a state of alert relaxation.
4. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate contains antioxidant-active phenolic compounds such as catechin, epicatechin, and procyanidins. These antioxidants have the ability to protect the nerves from injury and inflammation. Dark chocolates also contain more theobromine, a compound known to protect against age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. Other benefits of dark chocolate include increased blood flow to the brain and decreased inflammation. Flavonoid content in chocolate has been linked to improved cognitive abilities in older adults.
5. Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries contain flavonoids, which are plant compounds with powerful antioxidant properties. Flavonoids improve cognition and are important in the treatment of brain diseases and brain injury. Nerve damage occurs when free radicals interact with cell tissues and cause cellular deterioration. Berries are high in antioxidants, which help to neutralise free radicals and heal nerve damage. Acai berries, which contain anthocyanins such as cyanidin, malvidin, and delphinidin, can protect nerve cells by inhibiting inflammatory pathways.
6. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is known as a nervous system replenishment food. It is known as an antidote to nervous exhaustion and helps relieve the symptoms of insomnia, stress, and anxiety. Oats contain B vitamins, which aid in mood stabilisation. Avinine is a nervine alkaloid found in oats that is a long-term nervous system restorative. Herbalists use oats to treat a variety of nervous conditions because it nourishes and strengthens the overworked nervous system. Other essential nutrients found in oats include calcium, potassium, and magnesium, which help to soothe nerves and maintain a healthy nervous system.
7. Green Veggies
Dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, kale, and chard contain nutrients like magnesium, copper, folate, and calcium. Copper is required for the synthesis of neurotransmitters. It prevents spinal cord degeneration and progressive nerve function failure. Magnesium aids in the transport of oxygen to the muscles and nerves, as well as the relaxation of the nerves. Leafy vegetables contain vitamins B, C, and E, which improve neurotransmitter function and slow the ageing of the brain and nervous system.