The nervous system is one of the pillars of homeostasis, controlling the regulation of signals and interrelating all organic systems. Despite its importance, it should be noted that among its subsystems, self regulation is responsible for maintaining our body homeostasis, given its functions in control of involuntary signals that keep us alive. The autonomic nervous system intervenes in fight or flight responses thanks to the sympathetic ANS (Autonomic Nervous System), as well as in the eating and rest responses thanks to the parasympathetic ANS. In addition, it exerts a close relationship with the digestive system through the enteric ANS, regulating the flow of neurotransmitters and conditioning psychological responses.
The nervous system also has an influence on mood states, since our most basic behaviours (happiness, aggression, fear, etc.) are defined by the physiology of our species. Many imbalances of the nervous system are manifested in other organ systems. Despite this, several imbalances have direct repercussions on the nervous system. To have a healthy nervous system is essential to maintain an active lifestyle, as well as a varied and balanced diet. These factors can help to avoid different pathologies that usually occur in Western societies.
Homeostatic imbalances of the nervous system
Scientific evidence shows that some of the imbalances of the nervous system can be prevented or reduced just by maintaining a balanced diet and eating certain foods, described in an article that we did previously. Here are some of the most common nervous system imbalances.
Anxiety is a normal response to the stress that occurs when our wellbeing is compromised. Anxiety often occurs in response to daily events and when a debilitating condition is generated. The symptoms of anxiety disorders are usually chronic and may include symptoms such as difficulty concentrating, irritability, tense muscles, sleep disturbances and growing psychological concerns.
Depression is a low state of mind and an aversion to social activities that can affect behavior, emotions and feelings of well-being. Recent research links depression with different metabolic phenomena, such as gastrointestinal inflammation, insulin resistance and/or high oxidative stress.
Seasonal affective disorder or asthenia is characterized by an increase in appetite and the need to sleep more hours than usual. This situation often contributes to feeling depressed. Asthenia is caused by an alteration in the circadian rhythm due to the reduction of the duration of solar time.
Insomnia is the most common disorder of the nervous system. It is characterized by the inability to sleep well. During the night, different recovery processes take place in the body. Without them, our body would not be able to repair all the damage that occurs throughout the day. Therefore, insomnia has associated risks such as cardiovascular diseases, anxiety and potentially cancer. It is also associated with increased mortality in adults.
Migraine
Migraine is one of the most frequent imbalances in Western societies, they are usually recurrent and their symptoms include the headache usually associated with nausea and photophobia. The scientists suggest that it is the result of a complex dysfunction of the central nervous system and recommend changes especially in the diet -generally the reduction of cheese and alcohol-.
An alternative anti-inflammatory treatment is the combination of ergotamine, a type of ergot alkaloid, and caffeine to prevent headache.
To regulate these disorders, it is important to follow a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids, alpha-linolenic acid, docosahexaenoic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, bioelements such as magnesium, biomolecules such as coenzymes Q10, Nadh, serine, plant compounds such as California poppy, passionflower , valerian and vitamins B6, B12 and C.
