Denton County Living Well Magazine Winter 2015 | Page 33

the help of vitamin C, dopamine is then converted to norepinephrine causing increased feelings of alertness and energy. Endorphins are associated with a “happy” state of mind. Endorphins are sometimes described as morphine-like neurotransmitters and are produced through moderately intense physical activity including biking, running, swimming, and yoga. Physical problems such as allergies, food cravings, stress related eating, appetite, and sleep are all affected by the right nutrients and our emotional state of mind. Emotional well-being and proper brain function are also affected by correct nutrient balance. Certain disorders such as depression, generalized anxiety, Alzheimer’s, and mood disorders can be lessened and possibly prevented by proper nutrition and exercise. Eating for a healthy brain is important because the brain controls almost every system in the body, including mem- North Texas Center for Sight ory and decision making. Recent research has found that older people with higher levels of vitamins B, C, D, E, and omega-3 fatty acids in their blood perform better on mental acuity tests. They also show less brain shrinkage, which is common with Alzheimer’s disease. Generalized anxiety affects close to 40 million people in the United States. According to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, approximately 9% of adults in America suffer from depression. Both anxiety and depression have a functional shortage of the neurotransmitter serotonin. Eating a healthy balance of nutrients with vitamins B, D, C, and E coupled with magnesium, will foster the proper function of neurotransmitters, which help diminish the effects of depression and anxiety. Remember balance is the key to maintaining healthy emotional stability; balance with good nutrition, exercise and processing of emotions in a healthy way! Starting with a physical approach through good nutrition and moderate exercise is a great beginning. Our mission is to provide the best eye care possible and improve your vision as much as medically possible. Full Service Optical & Eyewear Gallery Contact Lens Exam & Fitting Optometry Services: ✔Comprehensive Eye Exams Comprehensive Ophthalmology ✔Eyelid Surgery ✔Glaucoma & Diabetic Management ✔ARMD Management ✔Laser Surgery for Glaucoma & ✔Diabetic Retinopathy ✔Dry Eyes & Allergies ✔Micro Incision Cataract Surgery ✔Restor Multi-Focal & Toric Lens Implants txeyemd.net 940-243-2020 Nicki Sayani, MD Comprehensive Ophthalmology 2220 Emery Street Denton, TX 76201 All major health insurance and vision plans accepted. DENTON COUNTY Living Well Magazine | WINTER 2015 31