The Ultimate Brain Diet For A Better Mind!
You’ve probably heard that certain foods are good for the heart, stomach, and many other parts of the body. “Are there foods for the brain too?” You may ask. Of course there are. In fact, there are plenty of them. From enhancing brain function to generating new brain cells, some foods worth a big space on your plate!
Foods for Your Memory
Every time your brain creates memories, neural connections are made. However, lasting memories are formed when the brain cells are very active. Studies show that there is one key messenger in the brain that is responsible for keeping these cells excited. It is called acetylcholine. This substance is made from choline which you can get from eggs, soybeans, and liver. One study also found that people who ate spinach, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower everyday performed better on memory tests than those who didn’t.
Foods that Uplift Your Mood
Emotions, whether good or bad, are processed in the brain. Just like other cognitive functions, emotions are also formed when the brain cells communicate with each other. The signals that carry such information are called neurotransmitters. Dopamine, a type of neurotransmitter, is also called the “feel-good” chemical that is active when the person is engaged in pleasurable activities like eating. But the presence of mental illnesses affects the brain’s ability to produce dopamine. When there is low level of dopamine, the person may experience negative emotions like irritation, anxiety, boredom, and emptiness. There are foods that can elevate dopamine levels. If you want to quick-boost in your mood, eat chocolates and other sugary treats. But their feel-good effects are only temporary. One great way to keep a steady mood is to supply the brain with precursors (molecules needed to produce dopamine). You can find them in soybeans, almonds, beets, meat and grains.
Foods that Boost Concentration
Supplying your body with carbohydrates is one way to keep your mind focus and alert. However, it is not enough to keep going. Too much starch can make you feel dizzy. There are foods that enhance your ability to concentrate, such those that are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. They include oily fish like salmon, tuna, and mackerel. Not a fan of fish? Consider flaxseeds and walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids also come in supplement form.
Foods that Make You Alert
Feeling dizzy? Before you go to work, drink a cup of coffee first. Caffeine promotes alertness by blocking the substance that turns off the electrical activity in your brain and makes you feel drowsy. It stimulates your brain to become active and energetic. But remember: too much caffeine does have negative consequences. The recommended consumption of coffee is 4-5 cups per day. Protein-rich foods such as beans, soy products, milk, cheese, and lean meat also helps elevate your alertness.
To stay on top of the game, you need to feed your brain well. Although the brain only consists as 2% of your total body weight, it is a food-hungry organ that has a 10 times higher appetite than the other organs. In fact, your brain utilises 20% of your daily calorie consumption. By making these foods a part of your regular diet, you can stay mentally sharp and healthy for the rest of your life!
Dear Readers,
What foods do you find boost your brain power? What would you recommend?
Share your comments below!
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