The central nervous system is composed of the encephalon (cerebrum, cerebellum, diencephalon and mesencephalon) and the spinal cord. The peripheral nervous system is made up of nerves. Although it seems clear that there is something intangible in the functioning of the nervous system that escapes laboratory analysis and testing, it is also true that brain and nervous functions occur within these specific organs. As with any other anatomical part, these organs must be adequately nourished through food intake in order to keep them functioning at optimal levels. In 1980s, Prof. Joaquin Cravioto, director of the National Institute of Science in Mexico, demonstrated that nutrition shapes the development of nerve cells. Dr Cravioto, explaining the tremendous importance of diet for the brain as well as other organs said, “According to Mouringuand infant mortality is due to three basic factors: genetic, infectious and dietary. The combination of the last two does not add but rather multiplies their strength.” To research this issue, the Mexican studied a group of hospitalised children with severe nutritional problems. After sometime, he observed that, although their biological functions recovered to reach normality, their brain had been affected. It was ascertained that although many of the children had experienced earlier than normal psychomotor development, after a period of malnutrition their motor development was stunted. This showed that such a change could not be attributed to genetic factors. Good maternal nutrition before and during pregnancy is a determining factor for adequate intellectual development of children. Optimal mental health during infancy and childhood is enhanced by a suitable diet. This is also true throughout the other life stages. On the other hand, Dr Ernst Schneider’s words should not be forgotten: “Sleep is the best food for the nerves.” Therefore, the old saying that health depends upon calmness and good food is being confirmed by scientific recipes for healing and prevention. – Compiled by By Solomon Asaba
