We normally think of food as nutrition for our bodies, without giving much thought to our brains. The truth is that what you eat has a huge impact on your brain and how it functions. There are several categories of foods that are beneficial for brain health:
Antioxidants – they help fight the cellular damage from free radicals that form in our brains and bodies as a result of exposure to stress and damaging substances such as fried foods, chemicals and air pollution as well as normal processes in our bodies like metabolism. If left unchecked, these free radicals can cause chronic inflammation which is linked to a number of chronic diseases, including Alzheimer’s.
Nitrates – High-nitrate foods are converted by your body to nitric oxide which relaxes the blood vessels and improves blood flow to your brain for better cognitive performance.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids – vital for normal brain function and development as well as protecting it as you age. Your brain is 60% fat and Omega-3s are the good kind of fat that it needs.
Anti-amyloids – the build-up of amyloid plaque is one of the causes of memory issues and dementia. Foods that fight that build-up help to keep the brain clear and functioning better.
For improved brain health, the following foods should be included regularly in your diet:
In addition to eating the right foods for brain health, it’s important to avoid processed foods and those with added sugar, as well as exercising regularly.
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