The title for December’s installment is an attempt to bring attention to the nervous system and how to keep it healthy. So many topics are regularly discussed. Strength, endurance, heart health, weight management, etc. are all common topics. The central nervous system is the control center for all bodily functions and has an effect on all of those common topics. It only makes sense to do what you can to keep it healthy.
Myelin Sheath (pronounced my-uh-len)
Yes, “your two front teeth” is a valid Christmas wish, but let’s dive into the myelin sheath and its importance. The myelin sheath is a layer of fat and protein that covers the main body of a nerve. Think of it as the insulation on an electrical wire or cable. The better the insulation, the better the message is sent without interruption or interference. Whether the nerve is part of the central nervous system or peripheral nervous system, messages are constantly being sent. From the body’s ability to automatically control breathing at rest to training for a marathon or bodybuilding, all functions are a result of these messages.
Disease and Damage
The nervous system is incredibly complicated due to its effect on all bodily functions. Neurological messages being sent at the proper speed and in the proper sequence are required for things to work as intended. Unfortunately, there are conditions that are out of our control. The generic term for these conditions is demyelinating disease. The most known disease is multiple sclerosis (MS). There are several other conditions that may be diagnosed, but MS is the most prevalent. In all conditions, there is damage to or inflammation of the myelin sheath and, depending on the nerve locations, can cause a number of different symptoms. Although there is no cure for demyelinating disease, therapies and medicines can help treat the symptoms and help maintain the bodily functions being affected.
What can I do to maintain healthy myelin?
It should be no surprise that diet and exercise have a positive effect on myelin health. When it comes to diet, common foods associated with a healthy diet are recommended. Foods that contain nutrients supporting connective tissue, and healthy fatty acids associated with myelin are found on the list. This includes nuts and seeds, eggs, olive oil (as opposed to vegetable oil), and lean meats (poultry, fish). Foods to limit include fried or fast food, processed foods, and baked items like cakes and cookies. As far as daily diets go, all of this sounds familiar, right? Another nutrient at the top of the list for neurological health is vitamin B12. Trying to include foods high in B12 is ideal as well.
Exercise’s role in myelin health is similar to its role in weight management. Like weight management, myelin health requires attention to diet as the number one factor. The amount and quality of nutrition is the first concern. Exercise, then, enhances a healthy diet through efficient metabolism. Myelin health is also best supported by a good combination of diet and exercise. The two go hand in hand for the best result. The body’s ability to maintain healthy functions across the board with attention to diet and exercise is the magic bullet that eludes so many. For a more in depth, scientific read on the role of diet and exercise on myelin health, click this link studying this exact topic.
Whether you get your two front teeth, or a healthy myelin sheath this holiday season, the bottom line is that diet and exercise, again, reign supreme. There is simply no way for the human body to function at its best without both.
