Some folks can't stand the stuff, but a spoonful of Marmite each day could significantly help with stress and anxiety, and even improve your sleep, according to a study. The Times reported that Marmite is beneficial for the nervous system. Despite its high salt content, it's packed with B vitamins, thiamin, riboflavin and niacin, which support the nervous system and aid in energy release from food.
A University of York study found that the B vitamins in Marmite can increase levels of a neurotransmitter that calms the brain. The Journal of Psychopharmacology published results suggesting that a daily teaspoon of Marmite for a month could reduce the brain's unhealthy response to stressful visual stimuli. Marmite, rich in magnesium, may also enhance sleep quality.
In the study, participants consumed a teaspoon of Marmite every day for a month, while a control group had peanut butter. The results showed a significant reduction, around 30 per cent, in their brain's response to visual stimuli, measured by recording electrical activity using electroencephalography (EEG), reports Gloucestershire Live . Researchers suggest this elevated prevalence of vitamin B12 through Marmite consumption could increase the levels of a certain neurotransmitter, GABA, in the brain.
Acting as an inhibiter, GABA regulates the excitability of neurons by literally dialling down the intensity of neural responses ensuring a balanced level of activity is sustained for brain health. This study presents evidenc.