Cocoa Tickles™

Mental and Nervous System Health

Food for thought

A good state of mind and a healthy brain is just as important as a healthy body and the two work hand in hand. Personal mental

health is something we have to give priority to, especially today with all our negative surroundings. We need to feed our minds with inspirational and positive messages and most importantly with the right kinds of foods. Brains fuels are vital in our everyday functioning and are just as necessary to ensure a healthy mind in later years.

How many times have you heard fish being called “brain food”? Research has proven that the most polyunsaturated of the Omega 3 fatty acids (DHAs) makes up a great part of the gray matter of our brains. The fat in our brains is vital in the proper functioning of our cells, the neurons in the brain that send the chemicals messages to the cells are also very rich in Omega 3 fatty acids. Medical investigators believe that Omega 3 essential fats may promote a healthy mental and emotional balance since these DHAs are the main components of the synaptic membranes in the brain.

Doctors at the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids congress in Brighton heard suggest that foods rich in Omega 3, like fish , can prevent depression and promote learning. Dr Ray Rice from the International Society for the Study of Fatty Acids and Lipids said: "People who eat a lot of fish are generally healthier, mentally and physically, than non-fish eaters. Seafood is not only rich in minerals and vitamins, it is the most important food source of the omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids that have a wide range of recognized health benefits."

It starts as early as the fetus on the mothers womb. Omega 3 benefits the health and mental stability of the expectant mother. Throughout pregnancy and particularly in the last trimester of pregnancy the baby receives a considerable amount of Omega 3 which has been proven to benefit the child in later years in learning and helps to prevent problems such as Dyslexia and Attention Deficit Disorder. Children who eat foods rich in omega 3 have been shown to have better concentration in their studies as well as less behavioral problems throughout the teenage years. A diet rich in omega 3 also ensures that as we get older our minds remain in a healthy state and could prevent diseases such as Alzheimer's and other mental degenerative illnesses.

Essential fatty acids are a fundamental part of the formation of the healthy cell membranes that support a competent functioning of the brain and the nervous system. It also promotes the production of substances called eicosanoids that regulate simply body functions including blood pressure, blood viscosity and all our immune and inflammatory responses. Omega 3s can improve the brains functions at the most basic level, by simply improving blood flow. This assists our physical health as well as aiding our state of mental health, helping to maintain a great sense of well being. If you're feeling tired and listless, Omega 3 can help you get that desired energy boost and lift you up when you need it the most. By adding these fatty acids to your diet you are protecting yourself against depression, dementia and all other debilitating mental conditions. Since depression has become a serious condition all over the world, most probably related to the wrong unhealthy diets resulting in the depletion in the intake of the vital fatty acids Omega 3, it is important that we add Omega 3 to our daily nourishment.

So where does the chocolate come into all of this? Well cocoa contains stimulants such as serotonin and phenylethylamine which actually have anti depressant effects similar to amphetamine that creates that all over happy feeling. It isn't all in the endorphin promoting elements of chocolate that excites the brain but also the sensations of the texture and flavor of this luxurious treat that adds to an overall exquisite satisfaction.

Eating chocolate releases endorphins in the brain which act as natural pain relievers, chocolate boost the appetite yet in moderation will not cause weight gain, sugar in chocolate reduces stress and has a calming effect on the body while acting as a pain reliever. Chocolate does not cause skin problems and will not trigger severe headaches, it could even make one live a little longer and reduces the risk of heart disease and cancer.

A balanced diet filled with vitamins and minerals as well as the essential fatty acids that our bodies require will ensure a healthy state of mind and mental bliss. Tickle your brains pleasure center!