Al-Quds newspaper

Global interest in the concept of functional nutrition is growing as a modern approach that goes beyond the traditional role of food solely as an energy source. This trend aims to use nutritional elements to support complex vital functions in the body, most notably the psychological and behavioral stability of the individual.

Dr. Ayat Hammad, a researcher in medical sciences, explained that there are specific nutritional recipes that serve as an ideal model for this concept. These recipes combine balanced elements that directly contribute to reducing stress levels and promoting a feeling of deep relaxation.

Oats stand out as an essential component of this diet thanks to their containment of complex carbohydrates. These ingredients work to raise the level of insulin in the blood in a gradual manner, ensuring stable sugar levels and avoiding severe mood swings.

Oats also contribute to facilitating the absorption of the amino acid tryptophan within the body. This acid is the raw material for the production of the hormone serotonin, which is the neurotransmitter responsible for improving the mood and feeling of general psychological comfort.

On the other hand, bananas play a pivotal role in promoting psychological calm due to their high concentration of vitamin B6. This vitamin is a necessary chemical mediator for converting tryptophan into serotonin within the brain, which gives the individual an immediate feeling of tranquility.

Nuts, specifically almonds and walnuts, add exceptional value to this functional dish through minerals and fatty acids. Almonds are rich in magnesium, a deficiency of which in the body is usually associated with increased tension and irritability in people.

As for walnuts, they contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which are the cornerstone of supporting brain health. These acids help improve cognitive functions, maintain a balanced mood, and combat symptoms of persistent anxiety.

Warm milk complements this nutritional combination, as it in turn contains good amounts of tryptophan. Milk stimulates the production of the hormone melatonin, which is responsible for regulating the body’s biological clock, making it ideal for improving the quality of deep sleep.

Medical sources indicated that the timing of eating this dish can vary based on each person’s daily pattern. However, many people prefer to drink it in the evening to make the most of the properties of warm milk in calming the nerves before bed.

This all-in-one recipe is a practical example of how natural ingredients can be used to support mental health. By incorporating oats, bananas, and nuts, an individual can build a diet that reduces the stresses of daily life and enhances overall psychological stability.