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Foods play a crucial role in influencing our mental well-being, with specific types having a beneficial effect on brain health. Recent research has revealed that consuming fermented foods can be an effective strategy for supporting mental health.
Fermented foods such as sauerkraut and kimchi are rich in choline, an amino acid vital for synthesizing acetylcholine. This neurotransmitter plays roles in muscle movement, sleep-wake cycles, and memory. Studies suggest that acetylcholine may also help protect from developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Consuming fermented foods introduces beneficial bacteria into the gut, altering your microbiome. This creates an optimal environment for the production of neurotransmitters that enhance mood. Ultra-processed foods have been linked to the opposite effect, potentially increasing the risk of depression in individuals.
Fermented foods also provide tryptophan, a crucial amino acid. The body uses tryptophan to produce the hormone melatonin and serves as a vital precursor for serotonin, a neurotransmitter that affects a wide range of brain functions.
These types of foods may initially seem unfamiliar and distinct in flavor to many. Gradually incorporating them into your diet can significantly shift your taste preferences to adapt to these new tastes. Considering their well-documented health benefits, it's beneficial to include more fermented foods in your meals.
Though still in the early phases, the study has tested 200 fermented foods. Researchers were surprised to find that nearly all demonstrated potential benefits for gut and brain health.
To view the original scientific study click below:
A Review of Fermented Foods with Beneficial Effects on Brain and Cognitive Function
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