A dietician has spoken about the impact different foods can have on our brains, and how there are some that play a crucial role in our mental wellbeing. Munawara Yahaya, a clinical dietician based in Dubai, explained the brain’s function is based on the ‘stability’ of its neurons and transmission of neurotransmitters.

Speaking to Gulf News, the nutrition expert explained around 80 per cent of serotonin is produced in the gut rather than the brain itself. By following a diet rich in nutrients and antioxidants, such as the Mediterranean diet (also favoured by TV doctor, Dr Michael Mosley), are 25 per cent less likely to develop depression.

When you break down the impact of different vitamins on the brain, Jayakumar Kannan, consultant endocrinologist, Aster Clinic, Al Muteena, Deira, explained there are a number which are crucial for your brain chemistry. This includes folic acid, also known as vitamin B9.

Vitamin B9 is crucial for proper brain function and plays an important role in mental and emotional health, helping to control dopamine levels. According to Brightland Health, low folate levels and accumulation of these by-products have been shown to contribute to symptoms of anxiety, depression, and other mood disorders.

Vitamin B9 can be found in pomegranate, which costs just 89p to buy. Pomegranate also has vitamin E which helps maintain healthy skin and eyes, and strengthen the body's natural defence against illness and infection.

But vitamin E can also have a positive impact on the brain by lowering the risk or delay cognitive impairment. Other foods rich in vitamin B9 include asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and shellfish.

Vitamins important for your brain

According to Kannan, there are a number of essential vitamins and nutrients that help the production of neurotransmitters, brain function and can contribute to controlling depression and anxiety.

These include:

  • Vitamin E - Found in asparagus, Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, and shellfish.
  • Vitamin B9: - Influences the levels of dopamine levels and is also present in asparagus, Brussels sprouts, pomegranates, and shellfish.
  • Vitamin B12 - Important for overall brain health.
  • Vitamin B6 - This helps in the production of melatonin and promotes better sleep. You can find it in foods such as grapes, barley, broccoli and pistachios.
  • Vitamin B1 (Thiamine) - Found in brown rice, barley, oatmeal, and popcorn.
  • Vitamin D - Essential for overall health, with sunlight exposure being a primary source.
  • Vitamin C - Found in Indian gooseberry, oranges, lemons, kiwi, bell peppers, and tomatoes.