The Best Foods for a Healthy Brain!
Hello everyone! The brain is without a doubt the most important organ in the body. Speaking of the brain’s amazing capabilities, from the ability to carry out daily tasks to managing and coordinating our actions and reactions, enabling our ability to think and feel, storing memories and processing emotions, the brain is responsible for all of the characteristics that define who we are as humans. Your overall health, especially your brain health, is very important. It is worthwhile to know that there are some foods that support or enhance brain health. It definitely goes without saying that having a healthy brain is essential for living well at any age!
Foods linked to better brain health —
- Berries: They have brain-boosting properties, such as improving brain cell communication and preventing or delaying age-related neurodegenerative diseases. Flavonoids, which are natural plant pigments found in berries, help to improve memory. They also contain antioxidants like anthocyanin, caffeic acid, catechin and quercetin, which aid in the reduction of oxidative stress and inflammation in the brain. Strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, black currants and mulberries are among the berries that promote brain health.
- Fatty fish: Fatty fish is high in omega-3 fatty acids and healthy fats. Omega-3 fatty acids are used by the brain to construct brain and nerve cells. As a result, they have the potential to improve the structure of brain cells known as neurons. Furthermore, unsaturated fats (healthy fats) are necessary for improved learning and memory. According to some studies, people who consume fish on a regular basis have more grey matter in their brains. The majority of nerve cells that control decision-making, memory and emotion are found in grey matter. Salmon, trout, tuna, herring and sardines are all examples of fatty fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Oranges: They are a fantastic source of vitamin C. Consuming them is essential because they contain vitamin C, which supports brain health as you age by protecting the brain from age-related decline. Additionally, vitamin C is an antioxidant that prevents the buildup of free radicals, which would otherwise harm brain cells.
- Broccoli: It is high in vitamin K, which is required for the formation of sphingolipids, a type of fat that is densely packed in brain cells. Aside from vitamin K, broccoli contains a number of compounds that have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which help protect the brain from damage.
- Pumpkin seeds: They are high in brain-healthy nutrients such as magnesium, iron, zinc and copper. To begin, zinc and copper are required for nerve signaling. Furthermore, magnesium is required for improved learning and memory. Finally, iron is required for optimal brain function. These seeds also contain powerful antioxidants that protect the body and brain from free radical damage.
- Turmeric: The active ingredient in turmeric, curcumin, has been shown to increase serotonin and dopamine levels, both of which improve mood. It also increases brain-derived neurotrophic factor, a type of growth hormone that aids in the growth of brain cells.
- Eggs: They contain several nutrients linked to brain health, including B6 and B12 vitamins, folate, and choline. Choline is a micronutrient that your body uses to make acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that aids in mood and memory regulation. In addition, vitamin B12 is involved in the synthesis of important brain chemicals. Finally, vitamin B-6 and folate prevent brain shrinkage and delay cognitive decline.
Our diet has a significant impact on the development and health of our brain. It is critical to feed your brain the proper nutrients in order for it to function properly and remain healthy. Foods high in antioxidants, flavonoids, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals all contribute to better brain health. Thus, eating right is essential for the health of your brain as well as your overall health! 😇
References:
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/324044
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/11-brain-foods
https://www.health.harvard.edu/healthbeat/foods-linked-to-better-brainpower
