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Exploring Nutrition and Neuropsychology

In recent years, the intersection of nutrition and neuropsychology has gained significant attention, with researchers delving into the intricate connections between diet and brain health. One area of particular interest is the role of phytochemicals in supporting cognitive function and mental well-being. Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds found in plant-based foods.

Phytochemicals encompass a diverse array of compounds, including flavonoids, polyphenols, carotenoids and more, each with unique properties and potential benefits for brain health. Studies have shown that these compounds possess antioxidant, anti-inflammatory and neuroprotective properties, which may contribute to their positive effects on cognitive function and mood regulation.

Research exploring the impact of phytochemical-rich diets on neuropsychological outcomes has yielded promising results. For example, studies have found that higher intake of flavonoid-rich foods, such as berries, citrus fruits,2 and cocoa,3 is associated with improved cognitive performance, including memory, attention and executive function. Similarly, consumption of foods high in polyphenols, such as green tea, nuts, and olive oil, has been linked to reduced risk of cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases.

Emerging evidence suggests that phytochemicals may influence neurotransmitter activity in the brain. For instance, some phytochemicals can decrease nitric oxide activity in neurodegenerative diseases (like Parkinson’s and Alzheimer’s disease).4 There are medications that can have similar effects of neurotransmitters but have a heavier side effect profile whereas phytochemicals found in foods are generally regarded as safe.

Incorporating phytochemical-rich foods into one’s diet may offer a natural and accessible approach to supporting brain health and cognitive function. While further research is needed to fully find the mechanisms underlying the effects of phytochemicals on neuropsychological outcomes, the existing evidence highlights the importance of dietary diversity and plant-based nutrition in promoting brain health coupled with a focus on whole foods and phytochemicals to add treatment value for neuropsychological diagnoses.

Citations

1. Coenen M, Cabello M, Umlauf S, Ayuso-Mateos JL, Anczewska M, Tourunen J, Leonardi M, Cieza A; PARADISE Consortium. Psychosocial difficulties from the perspective of persons with neuropsychiatric disordersDisability and Rehabilitation 2016.

2. Abdel-Kawy MA, Aboulhoda BE, Michel CG, Sedeek MS, Kirollos FN, Masoud MA. Ameliorating effect of Citrus trifoliata L. fruits extract on motor incoordination, neurodegeneration and oxidative stress in Parkinson’s disease modelNutritional Neuroscience. 2023.

3. Wang J, Varghese M, Ono K, Yamada M, Levine S, Tzavaras N, Gong B, Hurst WJ, Blitzer RD, Pasinetti GM. Cocoa extracts reduce oligomerization of amyloid-β: implications for cognitive improvement in Alzheimer’s diseaseJournal of Alzheimer’s Disease. 2014.

4. Behl T, Rana T, Sehgal A, Makeen HA, Albratty M, Alhazmi HA, Meraya AM, Bhatia S, Sachdeva M. Phytochemicals targeting nitric oxide signaling in neurodegenerative diseasesNitric Oxide: Biology and Chemistry. 2023.