Nervous System Health

The nervous system is a vitally important part of our bodies that is responsible for all bodily functions.  This being the case, it is vitally important that we take the health of our nervous systems as seriously as we do other parts such as the muscles and cardiovascular system.  This post will focus on a brief explanation of the 2 primary part of the nervous system, as well as ways we can work to increase nervous system health.

The nervous system is made of up two primary parts, the Central Nervous System and the Peripheral Nervous System.  The nervous system is responsible for all actions and responses that we go through on a daily basis (including involuntary actions such as breathing).  The Peripheral Nervous System receives information and then sends signals to the Central Nervous System which then responds with an action or particular movement. 

Nervous system health is an important aspect of overall health as our bodily functions rely on the nervous system, as well as our emotional health.  Emotional health is particularly important this time of year, as we see many folks reporting symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD).  SAD is very basically depression stemming from a reduced amount of sunlight exposure during the winter months.  Also, the holidays can be a source of depression for people, especially those that have lost loved ones. 

So ways to improve nervous system health include both exercise and nutrition.  Exercise is such an important part of nervous system health as it increases circulation and oxygen consumption.  This creates an environment within the body where there is more oxygen rich blood that can be circulated throughout the body and to the brain.  Yoga is a particularly effective form of exercise to increase nervous system health, especially the peripheral nervous system, by relaxing the muscles and sensory organs.  Yoga also promotes natural detoxing of waste products and cortisol which has a catabolic effect on muscles.  It has been clinically proven that exercise is more effective for treating moderate depression than antidepressant medications! 

Nutrition is another way that we can improve nervous system health and certain foods have a positive effect on the nervous system.  Complex carbohydrate consumption is encouraged as these foods (whole grains) help to stabilize blood sugar levels, which in turn helps to stabilize mood.  Scientific research links unstable blood glucose levels to an instability in mood.  Simple sugars cause a rapid spike in blood sugar, as they are easy assimilated into the bloodstream.  This then leads to the “sugar crash” that many people report after consuming sugary foods.  Omega 3 Fatty Acid consumption has been linked to positive effects on the nervous system.  Good sources of Omega 3’s include fish, walnuts and flaxseeds.  The B Vitamins, which are found in foods such as whole wheat, sweet potatoes, bananas, seaweed, beans and dark green leafy vegetables are also important for nervous system health.

Some other foods to consider adding to your diet for improved nervous system include: Spirulina, oats, whole grains, Brewer’s yeast, blackstrap molasses, chocolate (YAY), barley, nuts and seeds.

Reference:

Crocker, P.  The Vegan Cook’s Bible.  Robert Rose, Inc. Ontario, Canada. 2009