The key to enjoying optimal cognitive functioning throughout our lives is to eat a nutritious diet of whole, unprocessed foods, exercise our bodies and minds regularly and get adequate sleep. However, some foods stand out when it comes to protecting the health of our brains.
The following “B” foods are three superstars worth noting:
Blueberries
Berries are filled with numerous antioxidants, including flavonoids and anthocyanins. These antioxidants fight inflammation and oxidative stress throughout the body’s systems, reducing the risk of degenerative diseases, including brain diseases. Blueberries have been found to be especially rich in antioxidants.
A 2013 study published in the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry found that berries could help to prevent age-related motor function and neurodegeneration. In this study, which included both animals and humans, berries were linked to improved cognitive function.
Another 2013 study, performed by researchers at the University of Maryland and Tufts University found that berries helped to clear toxic proteins from the brain, the accumulation of which may be linked to degenerative cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and Parkinson’s disease.
Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts are very high in vitamin K; one serving of 100 grams contains about 147 percent of the recommended daily allowance of this important vitamin. Vitamin K has been linked to protecting the brain from damage, and potentially slowing the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.
These veggies also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which have been found to help improve and protect cognitive function. They also contain tryptophan, which is linked to serotonin production in the brain, and can help to improve mood and mitigate mental conditions such as anxiety and depression.
The extensive nutrient profile of Brussels sprouts has also been linked to cancer preventative properties, which includes brain cancers.
-The Alternative Daily
Sources:
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/5-age-defying-berry-smoothies
http://pubs.acs.org/doi/abs/10.1021/jf2036033
https://www.thealternativedaily.com/study-berries-reduce-risk-of-brain-disease
http://www.eurekalert.org/pub_releases/2013-04/foas-meb041813.php
http://www.nutrition-and-you.com/brussel-sprouts.html
http://springarborliving.com/senior-assisted-living-blog/blueberries-and-brussels-sprouts-can-help-promote-brain-health
http://www.whfoods.com/genpage.php?tname=foodspice&dbid=127
http://www.prevention.com/food/healthy-eating-tips/best-foods-your-brain?s=8
