In Harmony with Nature
DEPRESSION, DIET, & BEHAVIOR
Part 2
by Lady Carla Davis, MPH
Specializing in Nutrition
ESSENTIAL FATTY ACIDS (EFAs)
Essential fatty acids in balance are an integral part of all cell membranes throughout the body. The brain, retina, and other neural tissues have a particularly high requirement for EFAs, as they play a vital role in early brain development and brain function throughout life.
Some research and experts claim that too much omega 6 may cause a deficiency in omega 3 fats, which could account for the spiralling increase in omega 3 deficiency related diseases. Diets of processed foods usually contain plenty of omega 6 fats (often in a damaged form), but rarely any omega 3 fats. Hence, maintaining a correct balance is the key.
Mother’s milk provides the best balance of fatty acids for a baby. Breast milk is the primary source of nutrition for a newborn during the first six months of life. In addition to brain and nerve development, it also provides many other benefits such as colostrum to build immunity and development of a baby’s gut microbiome. What occurs in the gut has a strong impact on mental health. Gut microbiome communicate with the brain via the vagus nerve.
Babies breastfed for 9 months or more average 6 points higher IQ as adults. Plus, touching and gentile massaging while nursing promote growth and bonding for a baby’s mental and emotional wellbeing. Breast feeding also benefits the mother by assisting the uterus to return to its size before pregnancy. All the more reason to promote a nourishing prenatal diet, the value of breast feeding, good nutrition for nursing mothers, and not forcing mothers back to work during the first two years after giving birth.
Unfortunately, there is hardly a mention of this in the media, among government leaders, health regulators, or the medical establishment. Postpartum depression and a child’s behavior disturbances can be greatly alleviated or prevented with more attention on a nutritious diet and proper mothering. This can also help prevent many suicides later in life.