All around we are hearing the phrase, "Our food and water are killing us." In some instances, this may be more accurate than we want to admit. Recent studies have show that over production of crops has depleted nutrients from the soil which means the foods we consume have lower nutritional value in them. In essence, we are eating, but the food is not fulfilling our dietary needs. I heard somewhere that 60% of the nutrients have been depleted from vegetables and fruits, which means we must consume even more to get what our bodies need to survive. When it comes to meat products, "You are what you eat, eats." The imbalances of nutrients in our diet means lower intake of necessary nutrients and our body and mind is literally being starved. When our body is stressed the nutrients that supports good health can lead to physical and mental health problems.
In an article in the Institute of Mineral Research, Lithium as a Nutrient by Timothy M. Marshall, Ph.D., writes,"It appears that when people have deficient lithium intakes they experience poorer moods and are more easily agitated and reactive, as seen with increased rates of suicide, homicides, and violent crimes in areas with low lithium in their water supply." Nutrition effects the brain and nervous system. Certain foods, such as cacao, oats, seafood, seaweed, goji berries, various fruits and vegetables (depending on the soil in which they’re grown), and egg yolks are significant sources of lithium, along with other trace minerals such as iron, copper, and manganese.
The article goes on to explain that Lithium is an essential trace mineral needed to transport B-12, magnesium, zinc, and B-vitamines that all battle again the effects of stress. The article also says Lithium stimulates neural stem cell production and may prove to be of significant benefit in individuals recovering from spinal cord injury and neurological injuries caused by severe trauma, traumatic brain injury, and substance abuse. Does this mean you should go out and start purchasing high does lithium? No. In high doses lithium can be toxic to the body resulting in "numerous adverse effects such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal cramps, diarrhea, headaches, weakness, irritability, immune suppression, and copper depletion."
There are many nutrients that make up a healthy body. There are several tests available that can provide information specific to your personal situation. If you would like to learn more about the effects of nutrition on your mental health, contact Vicki Coffman (951-900-4414) to schedule a consultation.
"Go, eat your food with gladness, and drink your wine with a joyful heart,
for God has already approved what you do."
Ecclesiastes 9:7