Peripheral Nervous System (PNS)

 

How the peripheral nervous system works

Your peripheral nervous system relays information from your senses to your brain. It carries signals that enable you to move your muscles (2). It also provides the brain with information to regulate important involuntary processes, like digestion and breathing.
 

Somatic vs autonomic nervous system

 
Your peripheral nervous system is divided into two main systems: autonomic and somatic.
 

Autonomic nervous sytem

 
The autonomic nervous system works automatically, controlling certain bodily processes without conscious effort, such as breathing rate, blood pressure, digestion, metabolism, urination, and sexual response (3).
 
The autonomic nervous system is then further subdivided into sympathetic and parasympathetic.
 

• The sympathetic nervous system oversees the ‘fight or flight’ response in the body – when action is needed in the face of environmental threats, such as fleeing from danger. It accelerates heartbeat, dilates pupils, and stimulates sweat production.

• The parasympathetic nervous system does the opposite, regulating ‘rest and digest’ functions and conserving physical resources. Once a threat has passed, it reduces heart rate, slows breathing, and constricts pupils.

 

In other words, the sympathetic stimulates; the parasympathetic inhibits. This antagonistic relationship helps to maintain balance in the body.
 

Somatic nervous system

 
Your somatic nervous system enables you to control and move muscles throughout your body (4). It also transmits information from your five senses – sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste – to your brain.
 
Your somatic nervous system involves functions you can consciously sense and do.
 

Peripheral nervous system support

 
There are plenty of ways to keep your peripheral nervous system healthy. Prioritising sleep, staying active, managing stress, and eating a balanced, wholefood diet are just some of the tools to keep this delicate system in check. Avoiding smoking and drinking in moderation will also support your peripheral nervous system.
 
Find out more about supporting your nervous system, naturally, here.
 

What vitamins support the peripheral nervous system?

 
Besides eating a nutritionally dense diet, you may wish to include the following nutrients to support your peripheral nervous system.
 

B vitamins

 
The family of B vitamins are involved in many different biochemical processes. In particular, vitamins B1, B3 (niacin), B6, B7 (biotin), and B12 contribute to the normal functioning of the nervous system. Find them: Green leafy vegetables.

To give your nervous system an extra helping hand, you might consider our high-strength B-complex, Neuro-B. This comprehensive formula is designed with healthy nerves in mind and contains relevant amounts of vitamin B1 for the nervous system, vitamin B6 (as PSP) for normal red blood cell formation, and B12 for normal neurological and psychological formation.
 
You can learn more about B vitamins and the nervous system here.
 

Iodine

 
Iodine is an important trace mineral needed in small quantities to support health. Crucially, iodine supports normal nervous system function. Find it: Prunes.  
 

Magnesium

 
An essential mineral involved in over 300 biochemical processes; magnesium contributes to the normal functioning of the nervous system. Find it: Pumpkin seeds.
 

Vitamin C

 
Aside from immune health, vitamin C also plays an important role in supporting nervous system function. Find it: Goji berries.
 

Vitamin D3

 
Vitamin D is vital for good health. Some experts believe low levels may affect the nervous system (5). Find it: Eggs yolks.
 

Omega-3

 
The long-chain omega 3 fatty acids, EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are important to overall health.  In particular, DHA contributes to the maintenance of normal brain function.* Find it: Oily fish or plant-based microalgae.
 
* A beneficial effect is obtained with a daily intake of 250mg of DHA
 

Adaptogenic herbs

 
Adaptogenic herbs, like ashwagandha, Siberian Ginseng, and Korean Ginseng, are often recommended by nutritionists as they can be a helpful part of a supplement regime (6).
 

Palmitoylethanolamide 

 
PEA is an endocannabinoid-like compound found in almost every cell, tissue, and fluid in the body. Naturally produced when cells are damaged or threatened, PEA is a well-researched alternative to CBD. It’s a popular choice to support overall wellbeing, nervous system function, and physical discomfort.
 

Theanine

 
The amino acid found in tea, theanine, is a useful addition for those looking to support their nervous system function and emotional health. 
 

Turmeric

 
The active compound in turmeric, curcumin, has been celebrated for generations. Many people take it to support their overall health and wellbeing (7).
 

Want to learn more?

 
If you want to find out more about supporting your nervous system, please explore the rest of our dedicated health blog. Alternatively, please get in touch with our team of expert Nutrition Advisors, who are on hand to provide free, confidential advice via email, phone, and Live Chat.