Brain Foods

Diet not only affects the body but also influences how the brain functions. The brain is a metabolically active organ. Right foods containing natural neurochemicals can protect the brain from diseases that destroy mental capabilities such as Alzheimer’s. It is smart to eat well-balanced meals. It would be smarter to eat easy-to-get brain foods that keep us motivated, enhance our memory and alertness, increase our stress-coping ability, and prevent our brain from aging.

In the book “UltraMetabolism: The Simple Plan for Automatic Weight Loss,” arthur Dr. Mark Hyman says that two things damaging the brain the most are too much sugar and the wrong fats. Of course, no one wants to give up sweets and fats. We just need to get smart with the right amount of sugar and the right type of fats. In fact, the brain is mostly made up of fats, and it needs glucose (blood sugar) from carbohydrates for energy.

We all know that eggs are great sources of vitamins, proteins, and minerals, but few of us know that they are high in choline. Choline is an essential nutrient needed for structural integrity and neurotransmission of cell membranes. Memory becomes deteriorated as a result of choline deficiency. Numerous studies show that adequate amounts of choline in diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding period havs a long lasting, positive impact on cognitive performance of children.

Intellectual performance needs the specific type of fat found most commonly in oily fish, known as omega-3 fatty acids. Scientific studies have found that the true love of the brain is omega-3. Omega-3 fats are crucial for the brain’s health and fending off Alzheimer’s disease. Salmon (especially Alaska sockeye salmon), sardines, and herring lubricate the cells of central nervous system. Vegetarians can try flaxseeds and walnuts to replenish Omega-3 supply.

Leafy dark greens such as spinach, kale, mustard greens, and Swiss chard are exceptional good to prevent the loss of mental dexterity. According to National Institute on Aging (http://www.nia.nih.gov), folic acid, a B-Vitamin found in leafy vegetables, helps lower the risk of Alzheimer’s more effectively than antioxidants and other nutrients found in the same vegetables. Folic acid also breaks down homocysteines may lead to dementia and cognitive decline.

Berries satisfy our sweet tooth without affecting the brain’s function. Blueberries, strawberries and a spectrum of colorful fruits ease the craving for sweets, and boost antioxidant supply to reduce free radical damage in the brain. While excessive amount of refined sugar creates insulin resistance and poor glycemic control leading to memory loss, berries may significant improve short-term memory.

In sum, eggs, oily fish, leafy greens, and berries are best suited for optimal brain function.