Brain Type Diet

The brain requires the same nutrients as all other cells in the body. However, the brain also requires certain nutrients in greater abundance than other cells. This requirement begins during embryonic development of the brain and continues into adulthood. Lack of the proper nutrients can result in fetal nervous system deformity and neurological and psychological problems in adults.

Brain Requirements

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) states that folic acid is necessary for the fetus brain to develop normally. Lack of this vitamin in the mother's diet can cause the birth defect called anencephaly, where the baby's brain protrudes from its skull. Vitamin B6 is used by the brain for protein metabolism, for making enzymes and synthesizing the brain chemicals serotonin and dopamine. The NIH says vitamin B6 also may contribute to Parkinson's disease, seizures and depression. Vitamin B12 has different roles within neurons, including DNA synthesis. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) asserts that omega-3 fatty acids can cause vision and other neurological problems in the fetus when the mother's diet is lacking in this nutrient. The contribution of omega-3 fatty acids to schizophrenia, depression and attention deficit/hyperactivity disorder is now being studied.

Brainstem and Spinal Cord Requirements

The embryonic brainstem and spinal cord also depend on folic acid to develop normally, says NIH. Inadequate levels in the mother's diet may cause the birth defect called spina bifida, where part of the spinal cord protrudes from the spinal column. Other neurological problems may result from vitamin B12 deficiency. These probably are related to neuron degeneration and symptoms may appear as walking difficulty, coordination problems, as well as arm and leg spasticity.

Peripheral Nerve Requirements

Nerves in the peripheral nervous system may be damaged by insufficient levels of vitamin B6. This may be noticeable as a neuropathy, or a problem with nerve conduction causing motor and sensory dysfunction. Very high or low levels of vitamin B6 can produce a neuropathy. A neuropathy can also occur with a vitamin B12 deficiency. The NIH warns that this neuropathy may manifest as either weakness or numbness in the limbs. Severely low levels of vitamin B12 may be seen as bowel and bladder problems and can be the basis for impotence in men.

Nutritional Sources

Important nutritional components may be obtained from supplements. However, certain foods are also high in these nutrients and should be eaten regularly. Folic acid is plentiful in fortified breakfast cereals, beef liver, asparagus, cowpeas and other vegetables. Vitamin B6 is plentiful in fortified breakfast cereals, fish, poultry, meat, beans, fruit and vegetables. Vitamin B12 is plentiful in meats, fish, eggs, milk and poultry. Omega-3 fatty acids are plentiful in tuna, halibut, salmon, some plants and nuts.

Recommended Dietary Allowances

The Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) for folic acid in pregnant women is 600mcg. The RDA for vitamin B6 is 1.3mg for ages 19 to 50, and 1.7mg in men and 1.5mg in women over age 50. The adult RDA for vitamin B12 is 2.4mcg. The UMMC cautions that omega 3-fatty acid intake from supplements should not be more than 3g per day.