Category: Mental health

Stress 壓力

Stress can come from any situation or thought. Interpretation of that scenario can lead to feelings of frustration, anger or anxiety. A healthy body is able to detect and respond to stress. Prolonged exposure to stress may lead to fluctuating responses or an insensitivity / hypersensitivity to stress, which may further lead to undesirable habits and conditions such as alcoholism, temper issues and depression.

Under sudden stress, adrenal glands release cortisone, deoxyribose, adulterine and IL-6. These require A, B2, C, E, pantothenic acid and linoleic acid.

Adrenaline accelerates the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates into energy for the body to use. This causes to body to excrete amino acids, potassium and phosphorous. It also depletes magnesium in muscle tissue and reduces calcium storage. It can destroy membranes (soft protein structures) if constantly released or becomes uncontrollable. Ulcers, breathing problems and eczema can result.
Cortisol ages brain cells and builds fat around the body’s midsection.
Interleukin-6 has direct effects on most cells in the body and is associated with many disorders, including diabetes, arthritis, cancer, osteoporosis, Alzheimer’s disease, periodontal disease and cardiovascular disease.

Our enzymes and bodily fluids responsible for the millions of actions our bodies undertake everyday are made from micronutrients and amino acids which are reduced by stress. With inadequate supplies, the body tries to make something similar, but which is actually a histamine, an agent which causes inflammatory responses. Histamine is useful where there is actual cell injury since it brings white blood cells and blood to the area. If histamine is produced randomly, it can be an unnecessary irritant.

Stress is regulated by the release of calcium. If there is inadequate supplies in the blood, calcium is forced from bone where 99% of it is stored. Therefore, long periods of stress can result in osteoporosis and arthritis. If that occurs, calcium is not a first priority. Vitamin C and glucosamine is. Vitamin C is needed together with amino acids to fulfil its potential.

Phosphorous comes from processed meats and foods. This mineral replaces calcium and magnesium in our bodies, leading to lower absorption of those essential minerals. If the body has inadequate magnesium, calcium gets stuck in membrane structures leading to splinters, stones and arthritis.

The body does not absorb nutrients well when under stress, which can cause a multitude of other problems. It promotes the growth of free radicals that can oxidise and damage body tissues, especially cell membranes. Stress suppresses the immune system and long term stress will increase susceptibility to illness and slow healing.

In short, stress is to be avoided as much as possible.

Possible signs and symptoms

Twitching or trembling, muscle tension, headaches, sweating, dry mouth, difficulty swallowing and abdominal pain. General fatigue, inability to sustain concentration and short tempers.

Applied nutrition

Nutrition serves to help the body respond properly to stress. It is also essential to target and reduce the source of stress, and to help interpret and discuss appropriate responses to the stress being experienced.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Vitamin B All B vitamins are necessary for health and proper functioning of the nervous system. B5 is an anti-stress vitamin needed by the thymus gland 5x twice daily
Vitamin C Essential to adrenal gland function. Stress depletes the gland’s anti-stress hormones 5x twice daily
Calcium + magnesium Replaces minerals lost by stress. Deficiency is common in highly stressed persons and can result in anxiety, fear and even hallucinations 4x twice daily
Q10 Also includes taurine which increases energy and protects brain, heart and immune system 2x twice daily
Multivitamin + phytonutrients Supplements nutrition lost or prevented from absorption from stress As directed
Selenium E Disarms free radicals caused by stress, improves immunity 1-2x daily

Migraines 頭疼

Migraines are a neurological disease and is the most common type of vascular headache. During an attack, the blood vessels in the brain dilate and then stimulate nerve endings nearby, causing (usually severe) pain.

Possible signs and symptoms

These attacks can last from 4 to 72 hours and are commonly accompanied by nausea. Migraines are an intense and disabling headache and can come with an upset stomach, hypersensitivity to light or sound.

Triggers

  • Different foods such as cheese, chocolate, wines or citrus fruits can cause the attacks.
  • Exercise, anxiety, stress, bright lights, loud noises, contraceptive pills and travel.
  • Some women experience attacks more frequently around the time of their menstrual periods.

Applied nutrition

Generally to reduce inflammation, stress and pain.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Calcium + magnesium Minerals help to reduce pain and regulate muscular tone and transmit nerve impulses. Take liberally (up to 10) upon attack. Then 3x 3 times daily
Q10 Increases blood flow to the brain and improves circulation 2x twice daily
Fish oil or primrose oil Anti-inflammatory agents needed for brain, cells and for fat metabolism 2x twice daily
Vitamin B Needed for a healthy nervous system 3x twice daily
(Garlic) A potent detoxifier 3x twice daily
(Vitamin C) Helps produce anti-stress hormones and improve immunity. Helps calcium absorption 5x twice daily

 

Memory loss 失忆

One reason many people suffer memory loss is due to a prolonged, insufficient supply of necessary nutrients to the brain. With age, poor circulation to the brain can also result in symptoms of poor memory, lack of concentration confusion, lack of energy and fatigue. Occasional memory lapses are normally, however, with a balanced healthy diet and lifestyle, our memories should remain active well into our nineties.

Possible signs and symptoms

Loss of memory; fatigue; lack of concentration; frequently misplacing objects; having difficulty performing a series of actions (such as cooking); unable to respond effectively to problems at home or work; changes in behaviour.

Applied nutrition

 

Insomnia 失眠

The term insomnia refers to an inability to fall asleep or to remain asleep for an adequate length of time. This may cause chronic fatigue that affects one’s life and work.

Chronic insomnia is often a symptom of a serious underlying medical disorder. Half of all insomnia cases can be attributed to stress, depression and psychological disorder.

A lack of the nutrients calcium and magnesium can also contribute to insomnia. Systemic disorders involving the brain, digestive system, endocrine system, heart, liver, lungs and pancreas may affect sleep, as can poor nutritional habits and eating too close to bedtime.

Sleeping pills should not be used too often as the body can become dependent on the medicine and eventually, abusers of sleeping medication can find it very difficult to stop taking the tablets. Sleeping medication can leave users feeling drowsy and lethargic in the morning.

Applied nutrition

Fatigue 疲倦

Fatigue is generally related to mental or physical tiredness following prolonged or intense mental or physical activity/stress. Conversely, a lack of adequate exercise can also cause fatigue. Inadequate nutritional or fluid intake may also contribute to fatigue. A diet rich in a multitude of vitamins and minerals is essential. Fatigue may also result from low iron intake, possibly anaemia. Iron is also required for a healthy immune system and for energy production. Prolonged fatigue may lead to other problems, such as depression.

Recent studies have shown that as many as 7 out of 10 pre-menopausal women do not get enough iron. Women, particularly during pregnancy, teenage girls, athletes and vegetarians are most likely to be at risk from inadequate iron intake.

Applied nutrition

Do more outdoor sports to increase circulation. Exposure to activity and sunshine lets the body produce endorphins which improve mood and break the vicious cycle of chronic fatigue.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Protein For tissue and organ repair 1-2 scoops, 
2x daily
Multivitamin + minerals + phytonutrients All nutrients are necessary in balanced amounts. Helps increase energy release at the cellular level. As indicated on packaging
Multi-carotene Powerful free radical scavengers fight to protect cells and enhance immunity. 1 tab, 2x daily
Parselinium E 2 tabs, 2x daily
B Complex Essential for normal energy levels, adrenal function and brain function. B6 aids in absorption of B12, which is a natural energy booster needed to prevent anaemia. 2 tabs, 2x daily
Iron + folic acid Needed for red blood cell formation, increasing oxygen capacity. 1 tab, 3x daily
Vitamin C + bioflavonoids Has a powerful antiviral effect and increases energy levels. 2 tabs, 3x daily
Co-enzyme Q10 Works to increase energy and protects the heart and immune system. 2 tabs, 2x daily

Depression 萧条

Depression is a whole body illness that may be described as feeling sad, blue, unhappy or miserable. It affects the way you feel about yourself and the way you react to and think about the people around you. Symptoms can last for weeks, months and years.

Possible signs and symptoms

Chronic fatigue, quickness to anger, sleep disturbances, change of appetite, digestive disorders, restlessness, loss of interest, feeling worthless.

Possible causes

Emotional tension, stress, chemical imbalances in the brain, thyroid disorder, nutritional deficiency (poor diet), over-consumption of refined sugars, lack of (physical/mental) activity.

Applied nutrition

Often, depressed people do not actively seek help and are sensitive to others knowing their condition. Depressed people need ample time and patience to get back on their feet. Background dietary assistance can be very useful while you help to remove the cause or distance the cause from the prospect.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Protein Limit animal protein intake. Replace with plant-based proteins. 1 scoop, 
3x daily
Vitamin C + bioflavonoids Needed for immune function. Important to prevent depression. 3 tabs, 3x daily
Calcium + magnesium Calcium is nature’s tranquillizer. Works together with magnesium to relieve anxiety, stress, nervousness and tension. 3 tabs, 3x daily
B Complex B complex vitamins are necessary for the normal functioning of the brain and the nervous system. Naturally sourced vitamin B helps reduce anxiety and has a calming effect. 3 tabs, 3x daily
Omega 3 Aids in the transmission of nerve impulses. Important for proper brain function. 2 tabs, 2x daily
Multivitamins + multi-mineral + phytonutrients Depressed people are often deficient in many nutrients. This will work to increase energy and protect the heart and immune system. 1 tab, 2x daily

Attention-deficit-hyperactive disorder (ADHD) 多动症

ADHD is a fast-growing childhood disorder involving inattentiveness, over-activity, impulsion or a combination thereof. Ten times more boys than girls are diagnosed with ADHD. Although primarily thought of as a childhood behavioural disorder, it can also be found in adults. This condition affects school/work performance and interpersonal relationships. Parents and family members of children with ADHD often become exhausted and frustrated.

Possible signs and symptoms

  • Failing to give close attention to details, difficulties with solving problems or managing time;
  • Extreme distractibility and does not seem to listen when spoken to directly;
  • Difficulty organizing tasks and activities;
  • Difficulty sustaining attention in tasks and in play.

Possible causes

Many cases are linked to a diet high in refined sugars and artificial food additives, however, other factors linked to ADHD include heredity, anxiety/stress, allergies, being born to mothers who smoked during pregnancy, oxygen deprivation at birth, pollution, lead poisoning or prenatal trauma.

Applied Nutrition

Ensure reduction in refined sugars and processed foods. Increase fruit and vegetable intake. Bring the patient outdoors to open areas where they can use the additional energy properly. Consider using a long summer holiday to totally remove this condition.

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Protein Basic building block and necessary party of living cells in the body. 1 scoop,
2x daily
Calcium + magnesium Calms the nerves. 2 tabs,
3x daily
Multivitamin + minerals + phytonutrients Provides general nutritional supplementation. Many ADHD cases are zinc-deficient. As indicated on packaging
B Complex Important for proper brain function and digestion. Also enhances adrenal gland function and regulates neurotransmitters. 
An anti-stress vitamin. 2 tabs,
3x daily
Vitamin C + bioflavonoids An anti-stress vitamin. 2 tabs,
3x daily
Ginkgo biloba + ginseng Assists brain function and concentration. Builds memory. 2 tabs,
2x daily

 

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) 老人痴呆症

Alzheimer’s disease, a form of dementia, is a progressive form, incurable disease of the brain caused by the degeneration and eventual death of nerve cells in the brain. It affects memory, thinking and behaviour.

Memory impairment in one of the following areas will also be present: language, decision-making ability, judgement, attention, personality and other areas of mental function.
Possible signs and symptoms

During early stages, the symptoms of AD may be subtle and resemble signs that people mistakenly attribute to “natural ageing”. These include:

  • Repeating statements
  • Misplacing items
  • Getting lost on familiar routes
  • Personality changes
  • Losing interest in hobbies
  • Difficulty performing tasks
  • Having trouble finding names for familiar objects.

Possible causes

In addition to age and family history, risk factors for AD include: longstanding high blood pressure; history of head trauma; being female; and high levels of homocysteine – a bodily chemical that contributes to chronic illnesses such as heart disease, depression and possible AD.

To reduce AD risk, all persons should be encouraged to engage in activity which stimulates mental activity in all stages of their lives.

Applied nutrition

Supplement Benefit Suggested Dosage
Protein Basic building block and necessary party of living cells in the body. Produces collagen and promotes skin repair, smoothing and softness. 1 scoop, 2x daily
Co-enzyme Q10 Increase oxygenation of cells and increase generation of cellular energy 2 tabs, 2x daily
Iron + folic acid Aids controlling homocysteine levels 1 tab, 2x daily
Calcium + magnesium Sustains nerve integrity, calms the nerves. 2 tabs, 3x daily
Lecithin + vitamin E Needed to improve memory. Deficiencies of antioxidants expose the brain to oxidative damage. Helps to transport oxygen to the brain cells and protects them from free radical damage. 2 tabs, 2x daily
Multivitamin + minerals + phytonutrients Provides general nutritional supplementation. As indicated on packaging
B Complex Important for proper brain function and digestion. Deficiency can cause depression and mental difficulties in people with AD 2 tabs, 2x daily
Omega 3 These are the brain’s cellular building blocks 1 tab, 2x daily
Ginkgo biloba + ginseng Assists brain function and concentration. Builds memory. 2 tabs, 2x daily

Take honeybee products (honey, propolis) and increased intake of fruits and vegetables.