1.
Micronutrients, Phytonutrients, and Mental Health
As the pioneer and global leader of Functional Medicine, the Institute of Functional Medicine leads and catalyses the efforts of a large and expanding Functional Medicine ecosystem, including providers, educators, payers, industry leaders, regulators, and influencers.
2022
Abstract
The IFM provides some food for thought around the topic of micronutrient deficiency in the population today and how this is having a detrimental impact on our mental health. The many avenues of micronutrient depletion are explored including stress and the link between the coronavirus pandemic and the rise in mental health issues across the globe. They shine a spotlight specifically on magnesium and B vitamins where low levels have been linked to increased risk of depression, plus the importance of anti-inflammatory dietary phytonutrients and antioxidants such as vitamins A, C, D and E which have been associated with reduced levels of stress, anxiety and depression. Besides the evidence for a varied and nutrient dense diet, we are reminded that strategies for managing stress should also be considered with respect to both the direct impact on our mental and physical health, and the risk of micronutrient depletion.
2.
Health benefits of dark chocolate and how much you should eat
ZOE is revolutionising personalised nutrition, combining large-scale human studies with machine learning technology, microbiome sequencing and collaboration with leading scientists around the world. Their vision is to unlock the power of science and help everyone understand their body and their own unique responses to food.
2022
Abstract
This article from the ZOE team looks at the potential health benefits of dark chocolate. Evidence claims that nutrients and antioxidants in cocoa (particularly flavanols) can support gut health, improve cardiovascular health and cholesterol levels, balance insulin production and sensitivity, promote healthier skin and even improve mood and brain function. The jury’s still out regarding the quantity and percentage cocoa content required to see these health benefits but choosing moderate amounts (studies performed typically gave participants a maximum of 20g/day) of minimally processed, high quality (ideally organic) dark chocolate that is at least 70% cocoa seems to be the sweet spot!