Top Foods for Your Brain
/I often write about the power of our thoughts on Instagram when it comes to manifesting the life of our dreams, so it goes without saying that brain health is super important for our quality of life. According to Dr. Joseph Mercola of mercola.com, “Your brain is made up of about 75 percent water.” It is also “the fattest organ in your body and may consist of at least 60 percent fat.” Did you know that? This is another reason why it is so important to drink plenty of water. It is also vital that we consume high quality healthy fats to support optimal brain functions.
Morgan Zion know the importance of eating well to fuel her athletic career. Photography by Paul Garrett
What are the best foods for our brains?
Avocados are an excellent source of antioxidants and essential fats. Avocados contain luton, which is good for your eyes. They also reduce levels of bad cholesterol in our bodies. Other good plant sources of healthy fats are extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, flax seeds and walnuts. In addition salmon and other cold water fish like albacore tuna are excellent sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which help our brains remain sharp and focused.
Tumeric has many health benefits. It not only fights inflammation, it also contains a chemical that removes plaque from the blood vessels in the brain. Clean arteries can better deliver oxygen, energy and nutrients to our brain cells.
Beets are loaded with vital vitamins and minerals including; vitamin C, folate, vitamin B6, magnesium, potassium, phosphorous, manganese and iron (note that too much iron can be toxic to the brain). Beets also contain nitrates, which relax blood vessels thereby reducing high blood pressure.
Celery juice is powerful plant medicine, which has many health benefits for your gut, liver, skin, blood vessels, brain and more. According to Anthony William, who is also known as the Medical Medium, celery juice contains sodium cluster salts that “help alleviate brain fog and improve focus.” I’ve been drinking celery juice since January and it not only makes my gut feel good, it also makes my mind feel sharp. Check out my blog on celery juice titled, “Does Celery Juice Work? - A One Month Review”.
5. Dark chocolate contains iron, magnesium, copper, manganese, potassium, phosphorus, zinc and selenium (source: healthline.com). It is also an excellent source of antioxidants such as polyphenols, flavanols and catechins. Antioxidant protect our cells from free radicals, which can damage and age them.
6. Blueberries are low in calories and high in antioxidants, which protect the brain from the aging effects of oxidation in the body. Blueberries also contain vitamin C, vitamin K and manganese. Colorful berries in general are good sources of fiber, antioxidants and vitamins. I like to start my day with blueberries, raspberries and strawberries over a mix of organic whole grain cereals.
7. Green leafy vegetables, such as spinach, also provide great nutrition for our brains. They are high in magnesium, which dilates blood vessels and improves circulation in the brain. Magnesium also helps to alleviate anxiety. Under stress our brains have a harder time being creative.
Foods to Avoid That Harm the Brain
Foods that contain high levels of saturated fats or trans fats should be avoided. In fact, studies have shown that these unhealthy fats put us at a significantly higher risk for Alzheimers disease. Unfortunately this means that you should avoid eating bacon, processed meats, and dairy products as much as possible. Personally I love cheese and I would be sad to give it up completely. I have, however, been able to replace milk with almond milk. I’ve also tried some vegan cheese substitutes that were pretty good.
Processed foods that are filled with preservatives, sugar and artificial colors are also not healthy for the brain. They can contribute to brain fog, especially if you have ADHD. In addition you should avoid products that contain the artificial sweetener, aspartame. Although it has been deemed safe by the FDA, other sources say that aspartame breaks down into a neurotoxin within our bodies and can cause harm. I personally know a person who encountered vision problems from drinking high quantities of diet soda. Fortunately the symptoms went away after she quit drinking diet drinks. I highly recommend that you learn more about aspartame by reading this web article, “Aspartame’s Hidden Dangers."
Aileen Day makes celery juice a regular part of her diet. Photography by Paul Garrett
It is always wise to avoid chemicals as much as possible in your food. This is why I prefer certified organic fruits and vegetables. We are exposed to enough pollution in our modern world and we don’t need pesticides and herbicides building up in our bodies and causing health problems. I know well educated people who say, “I can’t afford organic food.” My response to them is, “And I can’t afford expensive medical bills.” As soon as you realize that health is wealth, it’s easy to change your eating habits.
It is extremely wise to protect and nourish your brain at any age. To keep our minds sharp and healthy it is important for us to eat a variety of nutrient dense foods and to drink plenty of non-floridated water. Exercise is also good for healthy brain function. Get outside and walk for 40 minutes a day, get plenty of sleep and continue to learn new things. These positive habits will help to keep your mind sharp and healthy for as long as possible.
Mindfully your,
Paul
Awaken • Inspire • Empower
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