Chronic stress, anxiety, sleep and mood issues are on the rise. The Mental Health Foundation, the organisation behind Mental Health Awareness Week, reveals astonishing statistics such as that in 2022/23 an average of 37.1% of women and 29.9% of men reported high levels of anxiety.1

This is probably not surprising though taking into consideration the cost-of-living crisis, current world concerns and the modern complexities of daily life. How can we best support ourselves and our customers in the face of increasing stressors? 

What part does nutrition play in psychological health and mental well-being?

A healthy and balanced diet can support both body and brain.

In neuroscience research, those consuming a Mediterranean diet emphasising oily fish, olive oil, vegetables, fruits, nuts, lean protein sources and whole grains, have been shown to have healthier looking brains than those consuming a ‘normal’ western modern diet.  

Depression has long been recognised as a symptom of deficiency of B vitamins2, deficiency in certain micronutrients can lower our resistance to stress and make us more prone to anxiety.

It has been proven without a doubt that the following nutrients are needed in the diet in order to contribute to healthy psychological function:

  • B Vitamins such as biotin, folate, B5, B3, B2, B1, B12 and B6.
  • Magnesium
  • Zinc
  • Vitamin C
  • Vitamin D

The need for certain nutrients is likely to increase when the body is under mental or physical stress- it is at these times that we need to eat more nutrient-dense foods than ever.

However, our natural eating habits can be easily disturbed with stress. We may turn more towards processed or convenience foods. Heightened stress, low mood and poor sleep can lead to cravings for high-sugar foods. These high glycaemic foods cause blood sugar spikes and dips that can have a negative effect on mood, which can create a downward spiral. It is important then to bridge the nutrition gap with quality supplementation where needed. Note that those on a restricted or vegan diet are more at risk in deficiencies of vitamin B12, vitamin D and choline.

Learn more about Vegan diets here

How can supplementation help?

Customers are looking for specifically targeted supplements as part of a holistic approach to managing stress, improving cognitive function and sleep. Botanicals traditionally used to rejuvenate the mind may offer excellent modern-day support, especially when taken alongside neuro-vitamins.

For example, traditionally used in Ayurveda, Ashwagandha has been historically used to support a calm mind and encourage restful sleep. Research has looked into Ashwagandha’s ‘adaptogenic’ effects, with recent studies showing that it has the potential to reduce cortisol and lower stress levels.

Other botanicals include:

  • Brahmi (aka Bacopa)– known as a nootropic in Ayurveda and found in research to support cognitive function. 
  • Lemon Balm - a herb traditionally used for relaxation, especially when a disturbance occurs in the first stage of sleep. 
  • Reishi mushroom- contains health-promoting polysaccharides that exhibit neuroprotective effects against stress and anxiety.  
  • Lion’s Mane mushroom - reported to improve memory, boost concentration and protect nervous system. Revered for its ability to repair and regenerate neurons in the brain- which results in improved overall cognitive functions. 
  • Gingko – shown to enhance circulation to the brain which may support memory and symptoms of cognitive decline.  
  • Siberian Ginseng – traditionally known as an ‘adaptogenic’ herb, may gently support energy levels and healthy stress responses. 
  • Griffonnia Simplicifolia seed - contains naturally occurring amino acids, 5-HTP, these amino acids act as a precursor of neurotransmitters serotonin & melatonin.  
  • Holy Basil (aka Tulsi) - traditionally used for anxiety and stress. It has antioxidant properties which may help support calmness. 
  • Sage - contains a host of phytochemicals that have been reported to support memory, alertness, problem solving capacity, accuracy and other cognitive functions.

 

Why RYM Nutrition?

RYM Nutrition  (which stands for “Rejuvenate Your Mind”)  is exclusively a nootropic brand offering a range of specifically targeted formulations designed to support cognitive functions and the body’s healthy response to stress.

RYM Brain Formula is a breakthrough all-in-one multi-nutrient supplement designed to support brain health in 5 ways: stress, memory, energy, concentration and mood.

 

 RYM De-Stress - Relax & Calm: This one a day, comprehensive blend of botanicals and nutrients is designed to reduce stress and anxiety, improve mood and balance energy.

RYM Sleep - is designed to aid relaxation of muscles and the natural production of melatonin, to help you fall asleep, stay asleep and wake up feeling refreshed and restored.

RYM Focus & Memory  is designed to recharge the mind to support alertness and concentration- and to combat mental fatigue and brain fog.

RYM Nutrition Mega Strength KSM-66 Ashwagandha supplies 600mg extract per capsule (probably the highest amount per capsule on the UK market). This outstanding organic botanical offers more than 5% concentration of withanolides, the active compound within Ashwagandha. 

Any claims are based on clinical research, are not aimed to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease. Food supplements should be used within the framework of a healthy lifestyle and not used as substitutes of a varied and balanced diet.

References:

  1. https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/explore-mental-health/statistics/anxiety-statistics
  2. Kris-Etherton, P. M., et al. (2021). Nutrition and behavioral health disorders: depression and anxiety. Nutrition reviews, 79(3), 247–260. https://doi.org/10.1093/nutrit/nuaa025