To age well, we need a healthy brain. And there are two components of a healthy brain. We need to think good thoughts (spiritual component), but we also need to eat good food (physical component). The food we eat can have a tremendous impact on brain functions. Foods that support cognitive function can help improve: Attention, Perception, Memory, Learning, Reasoning, Planning, Problem-solving, Decision making, and Multitasking.
Today we will look at four nutrients that impact the brain and the foods that contain them.
Vitamin B1 – Is a co-enzyme used in energy production. Research shows that thiamine deficiency is associated with neurological problems, including cognitive deficits.
Found in:
Pork
Salmon
Peas
Sunflower seeds
Brown Rice
Asparagus
Macadamia Nuts
Acorn squash
Nutritional Yeast
Vitamin D3 - Vitamin D receptors are widespread in brain tissue, and vitamin D's biologically active form has been shown to clear the brain of amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease. Recent studies have confirmed an association between cognitive impairment, dementia, and vitamin D deficiency.
Found in:
Salmon
Tuna
Egg yolk
Or:
Spend 10 minute in the sun between 10 and 2 pm
Vigorous exercise
Zinc – Studies have shown that zinc has a key role in regulating how neurons communicate. A lack of zinc can lead to foggy thinking and memory problems.
Found in:
Oysters
Beef
Crab
Pumpkin Seeds
Garbanzo Beans
Lentils
Cashews
Choline - Choline used to be considered a B vitamin. Choline is a vital building block for acetylcholine, which is a primary building block for your brain. It has an influence on: New memories, Reasoning, Concentration, Cognition, Sleep, Growing synapses, Coordinating movement (both speed and accuracy)
Signs of low levels of choline include:
Brain fog
ADD
Brain fatigue
Decreased learning
Memory loss
Poor recall
Feeling distracted
Irritability
Found in:
Beef liver
Shrimp
Eggs
Scallops
Leafy greens
Day 14 Challenge – A Healthy Brain 1) Today’s Challenge is to eat various foods so that you get all four nutrients.