The connection between physical and mental health

Brain Health

In my last article I emphasized the importance of particular micronutrients, such as Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin D, optimally obtained from a well balanced, high nutrient diet. Today I would like to share some exciting scientific discoveries proving the impact of exercise on mental health. Long-distance runners and triathletes have frequently been observing the “runner’s high”. With the help of fMRI (functional MRI) studies, cognitive neuroscience is now able to observe the physiological correlates of this phenomenon. When we work out, preferably aerobically, and keep our heartbeat in a … [Read more...]

Family Event Night

family running

This month's eFit for Life challenge relates to family bonding.  One suggestion I usually have for families who bring their children in for therapy is to schedule a weekly family event or activity night.  Most families are able to find one evening each week that can be designated as family night...for some families a weeknight is easier, others choose a weekend evening.  The event for the evening can be selected in various ways...family members can rotate who selects the activity for the evening, or they select the event from a family event jar containing ideas in which all family members have … [Read more...]

Effects of nutrition on mental health

brain health

Did you watch the movie “SUPER SIZE ME”? Granted, what Morgan Spurlock did to himself might have been a little extreme. On the other hand, it emphasizes how detrimental a diet deficient in micronutrients is not only for our physical but mental health. For those of you who have not seen it yet, the protagonist ate fast food exclusively for 30 days. By merely the end of a month he displayed signs of depression apart from more obvious physical health issues. Health Psychology is a burgeoning field in modern clinical psychology. It stresses the importance of a healthy lifestyle, particularly … [Read more...]

ADHD in Adults Part 2

Listen to internet radio with Doctors of the USA on Blog Talk Radio … [Read more...]