Your brain and amino acids

By Bio Island Nutrition Team

Our brains are one of the most amazing and complex organs in our body. In fact, while there is so much known about how other organ systems operate, there is still a lot to learn about the intricate communication networks that allow our brains to perform 20-million-billion calculations per second. What we can be sure about, is that that a healthy lifestyle plays an especially important role in the optimal function of our brain.

While certain lifestyle factors such as exercise, sleep and stress reduction are at the top of the list of priorities to maintain a healthy and happy brain, one of the most important things to consider is your diet. This is because the food we eat provides us with protein which is essential for the structure and function of the cells within our body. Proteins are made from amino acids, which are needed in the brain to build neurons, connective tissue and neurotransmitters.

Neurotransmitters are chemical signal molecules in our brains that underpin the function of our nervous system. Neurotransmitters are responsible for our memory, mood, energy levels and much, much more. Amino acids stimulate the synthesis of most neurotransmitters, and although there are 20 amino acids that we know of, some of the most important ones for our brains are tyrosine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine.

Tyrosine, tryptophan, and phenylalanine are precursors to the excitatory neurotransmitter dopamine and inhibitory neurotransmitter serotonin.  Dopamine is central to the brain’s reward pathway and is responsible for our feelings of motivation, pleasure, learning, memory, and focus. Serotonin on the other hand is responsible for sleep, digestion, appetite and maintaining a positive mood.

There are may more amino acids that support cognitive function and brain activity, so it is important to ensure we are consuming a diet rich in high-quality protein such as eggs, fish, chicken, beef, almonds, bananas, and dairy products. This will ensure your brain has the right materials to synthesises your neurotransmitters and keep you functioning optimally.

It is also important to note that there are other vitamins and minerals required by the body in order to make neurotransmitters such as B vitamins, omega-3 fatty acids, and antioxidants like vitamin C and E. Therefore, the focus should be on eating a balanced wholefoods diet and limiting processed foods which will help to provide an excellent foundation for optimal brain health.

This information does not take into account your personal situation and is general in nature. You should consider whether the information is appropriate for your needs and seek professional medical advice.

Always consult your healthcare professional before taking any supplements or if any concerns arise.