3. Your brain needs protein

Many amino acids (protein building blocks) contribute to mind and mood behaviour. Tryptophan is one that has already been discussed in the previous chapter. Phenyl alanine is the starter for the formation of dopamine, adrenaline and noradrenaline, which keep you motivated and energized. Gamma amino butyric acid (GABA) is in itself an anti-anxiety, relaxing and calming neurotransmitter. 51 Try to get most of your amino acid supply from combinations of nuts, beans and whole grains such as wheat, barley and oats. As we mentioned in the previous chapter, Prophet Muhammad (~) ordered talbeenah (porridge made from barley) to improve the mood of someone recuperating from an illness. Again, be careful of getting too much of a good thing. Excess protein intake, especially if it is of animal origin, can result in the competition of the amino acids for absorption: usually the amino acid most affected is tryptophan, which negatively affects your mood. In addition, if too much acid is circulating in your blood, the body responds by leaching the bones' calcium to 50 Ibn Majah, authenticated by Albani. 51 Holford, 2005b. neutralize it. Furthermore, the breakdown of these amino acids results in a by-product of ammonia putting too much stress on your kidneys. 52 Research has found that the consumption of high quantities of red meat, when compared to following a vegetarian diet, is linked to an increased risk of old age dementia. 53 Red meat contains large amounts of saturated fats, which adversely affect your circulatory system, as explained in Chapter Two. In addition, the increased iron load in the body increases free radical generation, causing further damage. To repeat the Prophet's (~ ) warning: «Beware of meat, as it has a ferocity like that of wine.» 54