Your brain is constantly working, even when you are asleep. It takes care of your mind and body, senses, breathing, and heart rate. Since your brain wears so many different hats, it is important to take care of your brain by nourishing it with the right fuel. What you eat will directly affect your brain, so it is crucial to eat the right type of food.
Just like a premium car, your brain will run better when it is fueled with premium fuel. So what is premium fuel for the brain? According to Mayo Clinic, green leafy vegetables, nuts, berries, beans, whole grains, seafood, and olive oil are some of the most brain-healthy foods. Researchers have proven that eating healthy meals can not only improve your mood but can also slow cognitive decline. These brain-healthy foods are full of vitamins, antioxidants, and minerals that nourish the brain and protect the brain cells. A Mediterranean-style diet is an eating style that has been researched and proven to best preserve memory. A Mediterranean diet does not mean eating all-you-can-eat pasta and cheese. It means eating lots of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and olive oil instead of red meats and processed food.
Some “low-premium” fuels for the brain include processed foods, red meat, butter and margarine, cheese, refined sugars, such as pastries and sweets, and fried and fast foods. Research has found that refined sugar impairs brain function and increases your chance of depression. In addition, consuming large amounts of trans-fat can lead to brain shrinkage similar to people with Alzheimer's disease. Trans-fat is the type of fat that is created when hydrogen is added to the chemical structure of a fat, typically vegetable oil. Trans-fats are often found in deep-fried foods, pie crusts, canned biscuits, frosting, shortening, Bisquick, microwave popcorn, store-bought cookies and cakes, non-dairy creamer, and margarine. Trans-fat is also known to raise our “bad” cholesterol levels and lower “good” cholesterol levels. Scientists have linked trans-fats to increased inflammation and plaques in the brain, causing a decline in function.
So what does it all mean? It means we should be more conscious of everyday food decisions we make, in order to improve brain health and our overall mood and physical health. So next time you order food, think twice about what you are ordering and ask yourself whether you are making the best choice for your brain. Perhaps instead of ordering the French fries, you can order a side of vegetables. Instead of eating cake after your meal, maybe you can eat a bowl of fruit. Food is our main source of fuel, so put in the premium fuel you deserve. You are worth it! *
Jiyea Park will be finishing her three month Occupational Therapy Student Internship at Beatitudes at the end of this week. She has really enjoyed her time at Beatitudes Campus and has made a big impact in the short time she has been with us. You'll have an opportunity to say goodbye to Jiyea at this week's Wednesdays Sundaes with Dave. Be sure to stop by!
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