It's normal and expected that your brain will change over time, but it appears that there are some things you can do to influence the health of this organ and thus reduce your risk of developing neurodegenerative diseases (such as Alzheimer's or of Parkinson's).
Nutritionist Jonathan Purtell says that beyond building a lifestyle, from exercise to walking or getting enough sleep, food is one of the most important elements that directly affects the health and shape of the brain.
Here are the foods you should eat that affect brain health precisely because of their nutritional value.
#1 Leafy greens
"Kale, spinach and broccoli are essential for keeping the brain in the best possible shape," says Dr. Casei Kelley. This is because these vegetables are full of nutrients necessary for optimal brain function. Vitamins A, C and K and anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory properties are essential for brain health and fitness.
#2 Berries
Berries are packed with flavonoids, a type of antioxidant that gives fruits and vegetables their fantastic flavor. But, beyond the taste, flavonoids help improve memory and in addition they protect nerve cells from oxidative stress, protecting the brain from neurodegenerative disorders.
#3 Nuts
If you don't like nuts, you should know that the effects they have on the brain are simply fantastic. Walnuts have omega-3 fatty acids, the "good" fats that help maintain your brain's structure. They also affect proper blood flow, ensuring your brain gets enough oxygen to function.
#4 Fatty fish
Like nuts, fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to affecting your brain structure, these fats help reduce the levels of beta-amyloid (a type of protein) in your blood.
#5 Dark chocolate
Good news for dark chocolate lovers! This sweet treat is full of antioxidant flavonoids, which help support brain health by increasing nerve cell function (and regeneration), while also lowering the risk of heart disease.
#6 Tea
Thanks to the rich content of antioxidants, certain types of tea such as green or black tea are very beneficial for brain health. The anti-inflammatory and soothing properties of the teas protect nerve cells, especially those in the memory part.
Suggested Articles:
- 10 foods that increase concentration and make you more productive at work
- 7 Signs You're Not Drinking Enough Water
- How to break free from your toxic relationship with sugar
- "Popcorn Brain": What you need to know about the phenomenon caused by technology
- This is the healthiest fish to eat and here's why
Source: Real Simple
