You may have noticed that certain foods affect how your body feels. Pasta often makes us tired; high fat foods like pizza makes us feel sluggish. But did you know these foods also affect your brain and how it functions? Eating a healthy, balanced diet is the first step to improving cognitive function and overall health.
Best Foods For Your Brain
While you can find all sorts of information out there on the best brain foods, it’s important to realize that the best foods for your brain are the best foods for your body as well. Common sense tells us that deep fried Twinkies probably aren’t a good idea, but a bowl of fruit salad is. The best way to maximize your diet is to follow the recommended guidelines for a balanced diet.
The food groups include grains, fruits, vegetables, fats, meat and beans, and milk. The new food pyramid also includes discretionary calories and physical activity. We know the importance of these food groups; here you’ll find more specific information specific nutrients and dieting tips to maximize your body and brain.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are the defenders of the body. They protect us from dangerous free radicals which invade the body and destroy our cells. Antioxidants protect us from diseases, and clear the brain of beta-amyloid plaque build up, which has been shown to cause memory loss.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids counter negative fats in the body and reduce their impact. They are also linked to improved cognitive ability and memory function. These fats are found in cold water fish like salmon, tuna and herring, as well as most nuts, flaxseed, and some vegetables and beans.
Lean Protein
Lean protein helps us build muscle and, since the brain uses protein to make neurotransmitters, it helps your brain function better. Choose sources of lean protein like lean meats, low fat dairy and beans or legumes. Beans and legumes are especially good choices as they have no cholesterol and plenty of fiber.
Complex Carbohydrates
We’re learning more and more about the importance of whole grains as opposed to refined grains. While wheat bread and brown rice may still sound boring to the average consumer, they are tasty and can be incorporated into an interesting, healthy diet. The body digests and absorbs complex carbohydrates more slowly than it does refined carbs.
This means your blood sugar levels stay relatively even as your body digests the food, rather than spiking dramatically then plunging low a few hours later. This rise and lowering can cause excessive energy followed by a sugar crash. As our sugar levels drop so low, we are more inclined to eat more sugar.
Water
Water is the single most important thing we can put into our bodies. Our bodies are brains are made mostly of water, and even mild dehydration can cause a drop in energy, concentration and mental capacity. While drinking 8 glasses of water a day may seem daunting, it’s really quite easy. Keep a water bottle with you at all times and just watch how much you can drink.
Remember, the best diet for your brain is also best for your body. Include in this diet limited alcohol, sugar and caffeine consumption along with regular physical activity, and you’ll be in great shape.
Try a natural solution to help keep you focused.
Sources:
http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/index.html
http://psychologytoday.com/articles/index.php?term=pto-3107.html&fromMod=popular_foodndiet
http://www.webmd.com/diet/healthy-foods-eat-brain-power?page=2
