God made every organ in our bodies with a purpose but the brain is the main one if i may say so. The brain is one amazing organ. Its clear we would be nothing or for that matter useless without it because its the center of our nervous system, responsible for so many functions in the body. Due to this the brain requires the right foods and nutrients to make sure it functions in the right way.
According to research 50% of the food we take ends up fueling the brain thus bringing the ultimate impact of development, memory and cognition. A decline in brain health is something we all often associate with aging, and actually this is true because his or her cells are naturally dying off at the end of the day, having the proper meal will ensure that the brain functions at its very best. Now the question is how can you improve your brain power ?
Break fast ?
Most people consider breakfast as the most important meal of the day and this is nothing less than the truth. Not only does this help in jump starting the metabolism in your body but it still helps in waking up your brain and keeping it alert. When you take a proper meal in the morning it gives your brain the energy it requires for the day. However, when you stave the brain by skipping breakfast it all leads to lack of concentration. Weight problems and fatigue. A health breakfast replenishes your glucose levels which at the morning are very low. As we all know glucose is the main source of energy for our bodies.... you need to feed as your brain feeds on glucose, but does not for that matter store glucose hence you will be more alert after having breakfast.
Balance your glucose
Glucose is the sugar that circulates in the blood, therefore it is very critical for the brain optimal function. Glucose is the brains main source of fuel and deficiencies can cause the brain to slow down and malfunction at the same time. This blood sugar comes from the foods we eat and to be more particular carbohydrates and starches. Make sure you have a steady energy intake through out the day.
But today most of the foods we eat contain too much carbohydrates that is converted into glucose with an instant. This carbohydrates come from refined flours like white rice, white bread, sugar and junk foods. This foods are however, known to have high glycemic index. This brings about high rise in glucose any time you take this foods, and this provides a temporary surge of glucose that is associated with development of diabetes ll, increase in weight and also lead to conditions that affect cognitive functions. It is also thought that high glucose or insulin level combination affects IQ levels, memory learning and general brain functions.
This does not mean all carbohydrates are bad; there are some that break down gradually and help regulate the flow of glucose to the brain . it is advisable to eat whole meal grains and flours, nuts, fruits and vegetables and legumes of which are good at delivering a controlled amount of glucose to the cells.
De- stress
When your stressed the brain is also affected. For this reason find ways to engage your mind in to relaxing activities for example swimming, dancing, walking, having a relaxing massage and many more. Learn to eat food that can improve your memory, improve your concentration, bring up your moods and help in brain functioning. Do avoid all the junk foods with chorestral, chemical based foods, smoking, excessive drinking and refined foods.
Anti – oxidants
This are substances that neutralize the free radical to stop the destruction of cells. This antioxidants includes Vitamin C and E, Beta – carotene and many others on this series. The free radicals are formed when the glucose and the oxygen are burned. The brain for this matter burns more oxygen and glucose than any other organ thus producing a lot of radicals. Free radicals are known to cause problems in the brain by eating the defensive layer of the brain cells thus destroying neurons.
The proper way to stop this free radicals from destroying your brain cells is by eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. Fresh ones are rich source of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are very important for brain power. Do take vegetables like: carrots, spinach, tomatoes, and berries on daily basis. Drink health beverages like fresh juices.
Essential fats – Omega 3
This fat is very vital to the brain as it contains EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid)- which is important in boosting memory and concentration. DHA is an essential fatty acid too found in the grey matter of the brain and is mainly responsible for transmission of brain signals. This brings out why omega 3 is vital in boosting the brain power. Foods that contain omega three includes: fish, walnuts pumpkins, nuts and flax seeds.
