Nutrition and Cognitive Function
While not usually the first treatment thought of for cognitive and psychological problems, I firmly believe that nutrition and exercise are one of the most powerful (and underutilized) tools we have to deal with them. Maintaining proper insulin sensitivity, avoiding food allergies (especially gluten, when present) and exercise are just a few of the options available. In addition, the process in the body that uses folic acid for a large variety of metabolic processes can have a major impact on cognitive function. Genetic sluggishness of the enzyme that produces the active form of folic acid results in elevated homocysteine levels and impaired methylation (a process which serves to protect DNA).
Synergy : Nutrition in Clinical Care 4 (3), 156-167
