Use Food to Set the Mood

The following guidelines are included in Dr. Mercola's article, "Why have Antipsychotic Prescriptions in Children Skyrocketed?" 

Although this article addresses behavior problems in children, all of us can benefit by following these guidelines.

 

1.  Eliminate, or severely limit fructose.
   Sugar/fructose has been linked to mental health problem.
2. Avoid processed foods, especially those containing artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives.
3. Replace soft drinks, fruit juices, and pasteurized milk with pure water.
4. Eat high quality fermented organic foods and/or high quality probiotic supplements (supplying healthy bacteria).
5. Add high-quality, animal-based omega-3 fats (like krill oil) to the diet. Also,  balance intake of omega-3 and omega-6 fats.
6. Include whole, organic foods in the diet (both to increase nutrient content and reduce chemical exposure).
7. Also reduce or eliminate grains. Even healthy organic whole grains can cause problems (they break down into sugars).
"...whole wheat in particular contains high amounts of wheat germ agglutinin (WGA), which can have adverse effects on mental health due to its neurotoxic actions, plus wheat inhibits production of serotonin."  Dr. Mercola.

8. Avoid artificial sweeteners of all kinds.
   
9. Exercise.
10.  Get into the sun for a while each day (or vitamin D3 supplements if this is not possible) to help maintain optimal vitamin D levels.
    "Scientists are now beginning to realize vitamin D is involved in maintaining the health of your brain, as they've recently discovered vitamin D receptors in the brain, spinal cord, and central nervous system. There's even evidence indicating vitamin D improves your brain's detoxification process. "   Dr. Mercola.
11. Prevent exposure to toxic metals and chemicals.
    "Prevent exposure to toxic metals and chemical by replacing personal care products, detergents and household cleaners with all natural varieties. Metals like aluminum, cadmium, lead and mercury are commonly found in thousands of different food products, household products, personal products and untold numbers of industrial products and chemicals. The presence of toxic metals in your child's body is highly significant for they are capable of causing serious health problems by interfering with normal biological functioning. The health effects range from minor physical ailments to chronic diseases, and altered mood and behavior."   Dr. Mercola

Dr. Mercola article