Mind

Consuming carbs can help increase the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that elevates your mood and curbs stress. That said, consuming refined carbs can also spike your blood sugar, ultimately draining your energy and mood. That’s why it’s so important to choose fiber-rich complex carbs along with a source of protein. Not only will they support mood, but they also help buffer your blood sugar response—keeping your mood and energy on an even keel. Ka’Chava contains an optimal balance of 25 g of complex carbs and 25 g of protein per serving.

B-complex vitamins (including vitamins B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, folate, biotin, and pantothenic acid) are essential for the proper functioning of your brain and nervous system. They help convert carbs into energy that powers your brain, and several of the B vitamins play crucial roles in developing and maintaining your nervous system. This includes the production of various neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and GABA that can have a calming effect on your body. Aside from vitamin B12 (found only in animal-based foods), B vitamins are found readily in various fruits and vegetables. Ka’Chava contains over 50% of your daily needs for all B-complex vitamins.

Magnesium is an essential mineral that relaxes your body and plays a vital role in healthy nervous system functioning. By activating receptors for the neurotransmitter GABA, ensuring you get enough magnesium in your diet may help support a calming effect on your mind and body. Unfortunately, studies show that approximately 50% of Americans consume less than the Estimated Average Requirement (EAR) for magnesium, which means you need to take extra care to get this nutrient in your diet[*]. Ka’Chava contains magnesium-rich foods such as chia and flax seeds, providing 48 to 60% of your daily value for this essential mineral in every serving. Citation: https://ods.od.nih.gov/factsheets

Selenium is an essential mineral that plays an important role in your antioxidant defenses. Specifically, selenium is needed for the proper functioning of proteins that act as protective antioxidants, warding off oxidative stress in your brain and nervous system. For this reason, loading your diet with foods rich in antioxidants like selenium is always a great idea. You can get this essential mineral in your diet by consuming nuts and seeds (Brazil nuts are a particularly rich source), but just one serving of Ka’Chava delivers over half of your daily needs.

Vitamin C is an antioxidant that maintains nerve cells' integrity and function. These cells help with the back-and-forth communication between your brain and body. One serving of Ka’Chava provides 33% of your daily value for vitamin C. Consider prioritizing fruits and veggies such as bell peppers, oranges, and berries for the rest.

Iron helps with the production of hemoglobin, a protein that allows red blood cells to carry oxygen all over your body – including to your hard-working, energy-hungry brain. Getting the recommended amount of iron (but not too much) also plays a role in regulating mood-enhancing neurotransmitters in the brain, such as dopamine and GABA. Dietary sources of iron include meat, spinach, lentils, oats, and tofu. Ka’Chava contains 30-42% of your daily iron needs.

Potassium is an essential mineral required for brain function and nerve transmission, and it also helps offset the adverse effects of excess sodium consumption – a common problem in the US[*]. While potassium can be found in fruits and vegetables, most Americans do not get enough in their daily diet. One serving of Ka’Chava contains 6-12% of your daily potassium needs. Citation: https://www.cdc.gov

Zinc is an essential mineral most well known for its role in immunity, but it also plays a role in processes related to brain function. For example, it helps your brain cells (neurons) talk to each other, passing messages back and forth. Zinc is predominantly found in animal-based foods and a few plant foods like cashews—but Ka’Chava packs 68% of your daily zinc needs.