The Role of Nutrients in Brain Health
Expert-defined terms from the Global Certificate in Nutritional Psychiatry course at London School of International Business. Free to read, free to share, paired with a professional course.
Acetylcholine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in memor… #
Related terms include cholinergic, neurotransmission, and synaptic plasticity. Adequate intake of choline is essential for the production of acetylcholine, and dietary sources include eggs, meat, and fish.
Adrenaline is a released by the adrenal glands in response… #
Related terms include cortisol, stress response, and sympathetic nervous system. The release of adrenaline is influenced by the availability of vitamin C and magnesium in the diet, and adequate intake of these nutrients is essential for maintaining healthy adrenal function.
Amino acids are the building blocks of proteins , and they play a c… #
Related terms include protein synthesis, neurotransmission, and hormone regulation. There are essential and non-essential amino acids, and the essential amino acids must be obtained through the diet as the body cannot produce them. Examples of essential amino acids include tryptophan, tyrosine, and phenylalanine.
Anthropometric measurements are used to assess nutritional status, and th… #
Related terms include nutritional assessment, body composition, and growth monitoring. Accurate anthropometric measurements are essential for identifying malnutrition and monitoring the effectiveness of interventions.
Antioxidants are compounds that neutralize free radicals and prote… #
Related terms include oxidative stress, free radicals, and antioxidant defense. Examples of antioxidants include vitamin C, vitamin E, and polyphenols. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide adequate antioxidants to protect against chronic diseases.
Anxiety disorders are mental health conditions characterized by excess… #
Related terms include mood disorders, depression, and stress response. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium can help alleviate symptoms of anxiety disorders.
Ascorbic acid is another name for vitamin C, which is an essential … #
Related terms include vitamin C deficiency, scurvy, and immune function. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide adequate vitamin C to maintain optimal health.
B vitamins are a group of essential nutrients that play a crucial role in… #
Related terms include folate, riboflavin, and vitamin B12 deficiency. Examples of B vitamins include thiamine, riboflavin, and niacin. A diet rich in whole grains, legumes, and nuts can provide adequate B vitamins to maintain optimal health.
Beta #
carotene is a precursor to vitamin A, which is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in vision, immune function, and skin health. Related terms include vitamin A deficiency, night blindness, and immune function. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide adequate beta-carotene to maintain optimal health.
Bioavailability refers to the extent to which the body can absorb … #
Related terms include nutrient absorption, digestion, and utilization. Factors that can affect bioavailability include dietary factors, gastrointestinal health, and nutrient interactions.
Blood #
brain barrier is a specialized barrier that separates the brain from the bloodstream and regulates the entry of substances into the brain. Related terms include neuroprotection, neurotransmission, and brain health. The blood-brain barrier plays a crucial role in maintaining brain health and preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
Brain #
derived neurotrophic factor is a protein that plays a crucial role in neuronal growth, survival, and plasticity. Related terms include neurotrophins, neuronal development, and synaptic plasticity. Exercise, meditation, and a healthy diet can increase brain-derived neurotrophic factor and promote brain health.
Calcium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in bone … #
Related terms include osteoporosis, muscle cramps, and nerve function. A diet rich in dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified foods can provide adequate calcium to maintain optimal health.
Carbohydrates are a type of macronutrient that provides energy for… #
Related terms include glucose, insulin, and glycemic index. Examples of carbohydrates include sugars, starches, and fibers. A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can provide adequate carbohydrates to maintain optimal health.
Cholesterol is a type of lipid that plays a crucial role in cell m… #
Related terms include hypercholesterolemia, cardiovascular disease, and lipid metabolism. A diet rich in saturated and trans fats can increase cholesterol levels and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Choline is an essential nutrient that plays a crucial role in brain</b… #
Related terms include acetylcholine, phospholipids, and liver function. A diet rich in eggs, meat, and fish can provide adequate choline to maintain optimal health.
Cognitive function refers to the mental processes that enable us t… #
Related terms include attention, memory, and executive function. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium can help support cognitive function and reduce the risk of cognitive decline.
Cortisol is a released by the adrenal glands in response t… #
Related terms include stress response, adrenal function, and glucocorticoids. The release of cortisol is influenced by the availability of vitamin C and magnesium in the diet, and adequate intake of these nutrients is essential for maintaining healthy adrenal function.
Dementia is a condition characterized by progressive cognitive<… #
Related terms include Alzheimer's disease, vascular dementia, and cognitive decline. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium can help reduce the risk of dementia and slow cognitive decline.
Depression is a mental health condition characterized by persistent</i… #
Related terms include mood disorders, anxiety, and stress response. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium can help alleviate symptoms of depression and reduce the risk of relapse.
DHA is a type of omega #
3 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in brain function, heart health, and inflammation regulation. Related terms include EPA, omega-3 fatty acids, and fish oil. A diet rich in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can provide adequate DHA to maintain optimal health.
Dietary fiber refers to the indigestible parts of plant foods that… #
Related terms include soluble fiber, insoluble fiber, and prebiotics. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide adequate dietary fiber to maintain optimal health.
EPA is a type of omega #
3 fatty acid that plays a crucial role in heart health,
Fatty acids are a type of lipid that provides energy for the body… #
Related terms include omega-3 fatty acids, omega-6 fatty acids, and lipid metabolism. Examples of fatty acids include saturated, monounsaturated, and polyunsaturated fatty acids.
Folate is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in cell growth, <b… #
Related terms include folic acid, vitamin B9, and homocysteine. A diet rich in leafy greens, legumes, and fortified foods can provide adequate folate to maintain optimal health.
Food addiction is a condition characterized by compulsive eating,… #
Related terms include eating disorders, obesity, and addiction. A healthy diet that includes whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can help reduce the risk of food addiction and promote healthy eating habits.
GABA is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulating … #
Related terms include glutamate, neurotransmission, and synaptic plasticity. A diet rich in fermented foods, green tea, and valerian root can help support GABA production and promote relaxation.
Glucose is a type of carbohydrate that provides energy for the bod… #
Related terms include insulin, glycemic index, and glucose metabolism. A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help regulate glucose levels and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Glutamate is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulatin… #
Related terms include GABA, neurotransmission, and synaptic plasticity. A diet rich in glutamate-rich foods, such as meat and fish, can help support glutamate production and promote cognitive function.
Glycemic index is a measure of how quickly carbohydrates raise blood</… #
Related terms include glucose, insulin, and carbohydrate metabolism. A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help regulate glycemic index and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
HDL cholesterol is a type of cholesterol that helps remove excess… #
Related terms include LDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipid metabolism. A diet rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can help increase HDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Homocysteine is an amino acid that plays a crucial role in methylation… #
Related terms include folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine metabolism. Elevated homocysteine levels can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and neurodegenerative disorders.
Insulin is a that regulates blood sugar levels and… #
Related terms include glucose, glycemic index, and insulin resistance. A diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables can help regulate insulin levels and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.
Iron is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in red bloo… #
Related terms include anemia, iron deficiency, and iron metabolism. A diet rich in red meat, spinach, and fortified foods can provide adequate iron to maintain optimal health.
LDL cholesterol is a type of cholesterol that can increase the ris… #
Related terms include HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and lipid metabolism. A diet rich in saturated and trans fats can increase LDL cholesterol and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Lipid metabolism refers to the processes by which the body breaks … #
Related terms include cholesterol, triglycerides, and fatty acid metabolism. A diet rich in monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats can help regulate lipid metabolism and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease.
Magnesium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in muscle<… #
Related terms include muscle cramps, anxiety, and magnesium deficiency. A diet rich in dark leafy greens, nuts, and seeds can provide adequate magnesium to maintain optimal health.
Manganese is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in bone</b… #
Related terms include osteoporosis, wound healing, and manganese deficiency. A diet rich in nuts, seeds, and whole grains can provide adequate manganese to maintain optimal health.
Melatonin is a that regulates sleep #
wake cycles and circadian rhythms. Related terms include sleep disorders, insomnia, and melatonin production. A diet rich in tart cherries, walnuts, and bananas can help support melatonin production and promote healthy sleep habits.
Memory refers to the mental processes that enable us to store</… #
Related terms include learning, attention, and cognitive function. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium can help support memory and cognitive function.
Methylation is a process by which the body adds methyl groups to <… #
Related terms include folate, vitamin B12, and homocysteine metabolism. Adequate methylation is essential for maintaining healthy cells and tissues.
Micronutrients are essential nutrients that are required in small … #
Related terms include vitamins, minerals, and trace elements. Examples of micronutrients include vitamin C, calcium, and iron.
Minerals are inorganic substances that are essential for maintaini… #
Related terms include calcium, iron, and zinc. A diet rich in whole foods, fruits, and vegetables can provide adequate minerals to maintain optimal health.
Mood disorders are mental health conditions characterized by persisten… #
Related terms include depression, anxiety, and stress response. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium can help alleviate symptoms of mood disorders and reduce the risk of relapse.
Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to reorganiz… #
Related terms include synaptic plasticity, neurogenesis, and cognitive function. A healthy diet that includes omega-3 fatty acids, vitamin D, and magnesium can help support neuroplasticity and promote cognitive function.
Neurotransmitters are chemical messengers that transmit signals be… #
Related terms include serotonin, dopamine, and acetylcholine. A healthy diet that includes tryptophan, tyrosine, and choline can help support neurotransmitter production and regulate mood and cognitive function.
Norepinephrine is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regu… #
Related terms include serotonin, dopamine, and neurotransmission. A diet rich in tyrosine, tryptophan, and choline can help support norepinephrine production and regulate mood and cognitive function.
Nutrient deficiencies refer to the lack of essential nutrients in… #
Related terms include malnutrition, undernutrition, and overnutrition. Common nutrient deficiencies include iron deficiency, vitamin D deficiency, and omega-3 fatty acid deficiency.
Omega #
3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fatty acid that plays a crucial role in heart health, inflammation regulation, and brain function. Related terms include DHA, EPA, and fish oil. A diet rich in fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts can provide adequate omega-3 fatty acids to maintain optimal health.
Phospholipids are a type of lipid that plays a crucial role in cell</b… #
Related terms include choline, omega-3 fatty acids, and phospholipid metabolism. A diet rich in eggs, meat, and fish can provide adequate phospholipids to maintain optimal health.
Polyphenols are a type of antioxidant that plays a crucial role in pro… #
Related terms include flavonoids, phenolic acids, and antioxidant defense. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains can provide adequate polyphenols to maintain optimal health.
Probiotics are live microorganisms that promote gut health… #
Related terms include prebiotics, gut microbiome, and probiotic supplements. A diet rich in fermented foods, yogurt, and kefir can provide adequate probiotics to maintain optimal health.
Protein is a type of macronutrient that provides building blocks f… #
Related terms include amino acids, protein synthesis, and protein metabolism. A diet rich in lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, and legumes, can provide adequate protein to maintain optimal health.
Riboflavin is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy prod… #
Related terms include vitamin B2, riboflavin deficiency, and energy metabolism. A diet rich in dairy products, leafy greens, and whole grains can provide adequate riboflavin to maintain optimal health.
Selenium is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in antioxid… #
Related terms include selenium deficiency, antioxidant defense, and cancer prevention. A diet rich in seafood, meat, and brazil nuts can provide adequate selenium to maintain optimal health.
Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that plays a crucial role in regulatin… #
Related terms include tryptophan, neurotransmission, and mood disorders. A diet rich in tryptophan, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids can help support serotonin production and regulate mood and cognitive function.
Thiamine is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy produc… #
Related terms include vitamin B1, thiamine deficiency, and energy metabolism. A diet rich in whole grains, legumes, and nuts can provide adequate thiamine to maintain optimal health.
Tryptophan is an essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in ser… #
Related terms include serotonin, neurotransmission, and mood disorders. A diet rich in lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, and legumes, can provide adequate tryptophan to maintain optimal health.
Tyrosine is a non #
essential amino acid that plays a crucial role in neurotransmitter production, cognitive function, and mood regulation. Related terms include dopamine, norepinephrine, and neurotransmission. A diet rich in lean protein sources, such as chicken, fish, and legumes, can provide adequate tyrosine to maintain optimal health.
Vitamin A is a fat #
soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in vision, immune function, and skin health. Related terms include beta-carotene, vitamin A deficiency, and immune function. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and fortified foods can provide adequate vitamin A to maintain optimal health.
Vitamin B12 is a B vitamin that plays a crucial role in energy pro… #
Related terms include vitamin B12 deficiency, anemia, and energy metabolism. A diet rich in animal products, such as meat, fish, and dairy products, can provide adequate vitamin B12 to maintain optimal health.
Vitamin C is a water #
soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in immune function, collagen synthesis, and iron absorption. Related terms include ascorbic acid, vitamin C deficiency, and immune function. A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can provide adequate vitamin C to maintain optimal health.
Vitamin D is a fat #
soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in bone health, immune function, and mood regulation. Related terms include vitamin D deficiency, osteoporosis, and mood disorders. A diet rich in fatty fish, fortified foods, and sunlight exposure can provide adequate vitamin D to maintain optimal health.
Vitamin E is a fat #
soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in antioxidant defense, skin health, and eye health.