THE PHRASE ‘FOOD FOR THOUGHT’ has become a bit of a cliché, but we may need to take it more literally, say scientists, who are finding proof of the link between food and our state of mind. They say certain nutrients may not only promote good brain function, but can also help in the prevention and treatment of mental health conditions. You only have to think about how you feel after a period of overindulgence or when you know you’ve been relying on energy-dense, nutrient-poor foods. Sluggish? Lethargic? Low or even depressed?
Research is being undertaken to explore the potential role of nutrition in the management of conditions commonly treated with medication along with counselling. This could be important in future for many people suffering from conditions ranging from attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) to depressive disorders.