Nutritional support in a healthy nervous system Flashcards
What can malnutrition in brain development lead to?
a reduction in brain cells, myelin, synapses and alterations in the neurotransmitter systems
What trimester of pregnancy is most important for fat deposition in the foetus?
The third trimester, apart from in cats
What organ contains the most fat?
The brain, where it is found in cell membranes and used for lipid signalling
What may a deficiency in omega 3 fatty acids do?
change physical properties and effect membrane excitability
What does DHA do?
effects membrane fluidity and thus transport in neural cells
What happens when pregnant/ lactating bitches were supplemented with omega 3?
puppies had increased retinal function, improved cognitive ability and were overall easier to train
What is low omega 3 in dog diets linked to?
aggressive behaviour
What kind of vegetarian diet has the most omega 3?
fresh grass has more than preserved forage
How much of the total PUFA in your brain is omega 3?
50%
What can happen if horses do not get enough vitamin E?
Equine motor neuron disease, (progressive weakness, muscle wasting, fat loss) due to degeneration of motor neurons in the spinal cord
What is copper needed for in lambs?
It is needed for normal brain and muscle function
What does good nutrition early on do?
good for cell proliferation
What does good nutrition later on do?
good for cell differentiation
What are fatty acids used for in the brain?
cell signalling/ gene expression
What does DHA effect?
membrane fluidity and thus transport in neural cells
