Wednesday, October 19, 2016

Sharpening the mind: The best foods for the brain

There are various reasons for people to be watchful of their dietary intake, with most of them citing weight management as the primary reason for doing so. But it is also important to understand that mental health is as important as physical health. The brain requires certain nutrients to ensure that the wellness of the brain is optimized and odds of developing mental illnesses are minimized.
Some of the nutrients the brain needs are the following:

Antioxidants
One of the major causes of brain deterioration is free radicals, as the oxidative damage it generates can not only produce cancer and other diseases, but it also quickens aging. There are many sources of antioxidants, such as nuts, tomatoes, dark red and purple fruits, such as blueberries and blackcurrant, cruciferous vegetables, such as kale, and even wine or champagne.

Image source: huffingtonpost.com

Essential fatty acids
There are many essential fatty acids (EFA) that enhance brain health. One of the most effective of which are omega-3 fats that are naturally produced by sardines, salmon, mackerel, trout, and other oily fish. Ground flaxseed, soya beans, and pumpkin seeds are also good sources of EFA, including alpha-linolenic acid.

Image source: pinterest.com

B vitamins
B vitamins are called “happy vitamins” or “anti-stress vitamins” for a good reason. B6, B12, and folic acids are known to improve one’s moods, increase stress resilience, and prevent mental illnesses. Leafy greens, chicken, egg, particularly the yolk, whole grains, and lentils are rich sources of different types of vitamin B.

Curtis Cripe, Ph.D. is the director of research and development of NTLgroup®. The firm specializes in the development and implementation of neuroengineering programs that aim to improve brain health and heal and repair neurological disorders. Find out more about the company by visiting its official website.

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