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1. 

   Cheryl Jazzar on January 13, 2009 at 8:48 am

   This is fascinating. Even more fascinating is the high number of nutritional correlates between epilepsy and mood and anxiety reactions.
   Research like this can certainly make us scratch our heads in wonder, but a closer look shows known links to brain function and nutritional status. These links are evident for both epilepsy and maternal mental health.
   For example, nutritional management for epilepsy can include the following:
   Vitamins:
   Vitamin B Complex
   Extremely important in the functioning of the central nervous system.
   Vitamin B3
   Improves circulation and is helpful for many brain-related disorders.
   Vitamin B6
   A necessary cofactor in the metabolism of a variety of neurotransmitters. Needed for normal brain function.
   Vitamin B12
   Needed for proper digestion, the formation of cells, and the production of myelin, the protective coating surrounding the nerves. Prevents nerve damage.
   Vitamin B5
   The anti-stress vitamin.
   Vitamin B9
   Vital for the health of the nervous system.
   Vitamin C
   Vital to functioning of the adrenal glands, which are the anti-stress glands.
   Vitamin A
   Aids in protecting brain function.
   Vitamin E
   The Canadian Journal of Neurological Science published a study showing that Vitamin E deficiency produces seizures. A powerful antioxidant that protects the body from damage by free radicals. Aids circulation.
   Minerals:
   Magnesium
   Needed to balance with calcium.
   Calcium
   Needed to prevent bone loss.
   Zinc
   Needed for bone growth. Often deficient in those with epilepsy.
   Selenium
   Found to significantly reduce seizures.
   Manganese
   Plays a significant role in cerebral function. We've included additional study information showing the positive role of Manganese with Epilepsy.
   Amino Acids:
   Taurine
   Important for proper brain function. We've included additional study information showing the positive role of Taurine with Epilepsy.
   Nutrient Cofactors:
   Coenzyme Q10
   Improves brain oxygenation.
   (From http://www.healingwithnutrition.com)
   Integrative practitioners have used these same nutrients in preventing and treating perinatal mood issues for years. Thanks for this article, Katherine!

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