A healthy diet is known to affect mental function and brain health. Proper nutrition gives your brain the right fuel to help reduce the effects of dementia, including memory loss and cognitive decline. Including sources of fruits, vegetables, proteins, and healthy fats can help ensure you get the essential nutrients your body needs.
ANTIOXIDANTS
Antioxidants, such as those found in blueberries, blackberries, and strawberries have been known to slow the effects of age-related decline. Because our brains are susceptible to “oxidative” damage, following a diet that includes antioxidants is not only healthy, it’s highly imperative.
HEALTHY FATTY ACIDS
Omega fatty acids, also known as healthy fats, help reduce brain inflammation and improve memory and learning, thus lowering the effects of dementia. These healthy fats are found in such foods as kiwis, walnuts, and salmon.
PHYTOCHEMICALS
Phytochemicals come from plants and have many health benefits to the brain as well as the body. They help boost brain function by helping the brain form new neurons and repairing damage to the brain. Curcumin is a super flavonoid that is an antioxidant AND anti-inflammatory that helps reduce the effects of cognitive decline in individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.
The foods we consume dramatically affects our brains. Healthy nutrition leads to a health brain, and changes in diet can improve cognitive abilities. It’s never too late to reverse some of the negative effects of poor nutrition.
