A healthy diet provides great benefits, not just for your physical body, but also for mental health. We can improve the way our brain functions on a daily basis and probably prevent age related brain disorders by incorporating these foods into our diet.
1. Eggs
A great source of choline is egg yolk. Choline is used to produce a neurotransmitter known as acetylcholine, which enhances memory and concentration. It also reduces risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Eggs contain proteins which can be used to produce glucose which serves as the main source of energy for the brain. Eggs are also rich in vitamins B6, B9 and B12, which reduce homocysteine levels in the blood, which increases risk of cardiovascular diseases, indirectly reducing the risk of neurological disorders.
2. Green tea and red wine
Green tea has antioxidant effect due to its high catechin content. It also contains caffeine and can help to make you feel more active by inhibiting the activity of adenosine, the neurotransmitter that induces feelings of drowsiness, on the brain. It also contains L-Theanine, an amino acid that can help you to relax without causing you to feel drowsy.
Green tea, as well as red wine, also contain an antioxidant known as epigallocatechin gallate that prevents buildup of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain, which leads to nerve damage and increases risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Remember moderation is key in alcohol consumption.
3. Beans
The brain uses glucose to fuel its different activities and since it cannot store glucose, it needs an uninterrupted supply to ensure proper functioning. When glucose levels are low, proteins can be used to make more glucose. This is where beans and other protein-rich foods come in.
4. Nuts
These foods are rich in vitamin E which is thought to have antioxidant effect, preventing nerve cells from damage by free radicals. They also contain alpha linolenic acid which increases blood flow, promoting brain performance. Their omega-3 fatty acid content also helps lower levels of bad cholesterol or LDL in the blood.
5. Whole grains
Foods like brown rice and oatmeal which have higher fiber content compared to processed grains help to keep your heart healthy. They do this by increasing good cholesterol or HDL levels. This reduces risk of plaque formation and atherosclerosis which lead to other serious heart conditions.
Your brain, like all the other organs in your body, is very dependent on blood circulation. Proper blood flow is vital to functioning of your brain cells.
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