The Relationship Between Nutrients And Mood - 1360 Words

Many studies have been conducted -- with interesting results -- showing the relationship between nutrients and mood. Research shows it is clear that no one single nutrient (with the exception of lithium) can provide a reliably effective treatment for mood disorders. Rather, the evidence implies that a broad range of nutrients are involved in achieving optimum mental stability: †¢ Clinical Trials Clinical Trial Table 1: Micronutrient-mood case studies and case series (PDF) Clinical Trial Table 2: Micronutrient-mood randomized controlled trials (PDF) †¢ Mechanism Of Nutrient Action Various micronutrient-related factors are associated with increased risk of psychiatric illness, and micronutrients play essential roles in an array of brain†¦show more content†¦Gastrointestinal tract disruptions and psychiatric disorders show remarkably high co-morbidity.29 For example, most studies that have investigated the co-morbidity of irritable bowel syndrome and psychiatric disorders show prevalence of psychiatric disorders in irritable bowel syndrome patients to be 90% or greater. 30 Higher, genetically-based micronutrient requirements Research is uncovering major genetic risk factors in psychiatric illness.31 Up to one-third of gene mutations result in decreased enzyme binding affinity for corresponding coenzymes, including vitamins and minerals.32 As a result, individuals with certain genotypes may have significantly higher requirements for essential micronutrients in key mood-related brain pathways. 32 33 44 Low micronutrient intake exacerbates the problem Low micronutrient intake may contribute to psychiatric illness.34 35 36 Intake of many micronutrients is inadequate in the United States, as shown in Figure 2. RDA levels are deemed to be â€Å"sufficient to meet the dietary requirements of nearly all (97 to 98 percent) of healthy individuals†, but do not ensure mental health for at-risk sub-populations:13 â€Å"intake at the level of the RDA or AI would not necessarily be expected to replete individuals previously undernourished, nor would it be adequate for disease states marked by increased requirements.† 37 †¢