The right nutrients for good mental health

We are constantly told that the shape and state of our bodies is directly affected by what we feed it, but what we often fail to acknowledge is the effect that different nutrients have on our mood.

"Our brain is a hugely complex vital organ" says Simon Bandy from nutritional supplements company, Veganicity.  "It dictates how we feel, how we act and fundamentally decides who we are. It makes sense that if we provide it with the nutrients it needs to function, it will perform better than if we starve it of the fuel it needs to keep us mentally healthy and alert."

But with a seemingly ever-growing array of nutritional supplements available, how do we make sense of it all and know which ones to choose? Simon gives his expert advice on which supplements can enhance mental health and aims to make the selection a little easier:

5-HTP (Hydroxytryptophan)

Popular in many countries as a herbal anti-depressant, 5-HTP is a natural precursor to serotonin which is believed to help maintain a calm mood and promote good sleeping patterns. Sleep deprivation can make it almost impossible for the sufferer to cope calmly and effectively with life the following day, making a good night's sleep a basic essential for good mental health.

"Try and find a 5-HTP supplement which is combined with additional nutrients such as magnesium and zinc" says Simon. "Magnesium is known to help quell feelings of anxiety and zinc keeps you feeling motivated and energetic."

Gotu Kola

This exotic-sounding herb is actually a member of the parsley family. It has been used for hundreds of years in traditional Ayurvedic and Chinese medicine as a natural remedy for depression, stress and fatigue. Gotu Kola is believed to be a 'neurotransmitter' meaning that it supports the production of brain messenger molecules, helping the brain to function.

Valerian

The Valerian root has been used since the Middle Ages as a natural remedy for nervous tension, helping to suppress the feeling of rising panic and calm irritability. Many people find that valerian has a gentle sedative effect which leaves them feeling refreshed rather than drowsy and unlike the similarly named prescription drug, 'valium' valerian is natural and non-narcotic. Many people report that valerian helps them achieve a natural, healthy sleep pattern and helps to combat hyper activity and over excitement.

Ginkgo Biloba

A favourite among post menopausal women, Ginkgo Biloba is reported to improve general mental wellbeing and give people a greater sense of satisfaction and fulfilment in their everyday lives.

Simon concludes "The issue that we have with natural remedies is that the evidence surrounding their efficacy is anecdotal. But with all medication - whether natural or prescribed - there is no one miracle cure that suits everyone. It would be my advice to keep an open mind and see what works best for you and always discuss your mental health concerns with your doctor." 

All Veganicity products are suitable for everyone including vegetarians and vegans. Most Veganicity products are available to order online and will be delivered conveniently and quickly to your door. Available from veganicity.com, amazon.co.uk and all good independent health stores.