It was not too long ago when I found myself having digestive issues that had a negative effect on my mental health. Although doctors did the best they could, I resorted to a Naturopathic Doctor years later who completely changed my life through nutrition and lifestyle. Not only was I bedridden with agonizing pain and mental torment, I had begun to lose hope in myself and trust in the medial establishments. Later on, I found out that my body was missing essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients and was not able to absorb whatever I was consuming.
After two years of eating clean, healthy foods like the ones suggested in this article, I was able to rebuild my entire gut lining and rebalance my microbiome to be able to digest any foods that I eat today. I am forever grateful to my Naturopathic Doctor who changed my life forever. She reshaped my entire viewpoint regarding Eastern Medicine, and the positive effects that holistic health had on my life.
"I found out that my body was missing essential vitamins, minerals, and nutrients"
1. Salmon
This bright pink fatty fish is an amazing source of Omega-3 fatty acids, known to be highly beneficial to the brain. It is preferred to eat wild caught salmon that is free of growth hormones and any other chemicals such as mercury that can be harmful to the immune system and brain function. Due to the fact that we are incapable of making DHA on our own, which is an essential fatty acid, it is crucial to get it from our diet. DHA makes up the majority of the cell-membrane that reduces inflammation in the brain, which helps prevent degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
3. Berries
The high antioxidant content of berries helps protect brain cells from damage by harmful free radicals, which are set loose within the body by the process of oxidation. Berries are great tasting, glow sugar treats that help suppress hunger, are a great source of fiber, and are great for stabilizing blood sugar levels. Darker berries such as blackberries, blueberries, and cherries are a rich source of anthocyanins and other flavonoids that may support memory function.
2. Dark Chocolate
Who can say no to chocolate? Dark chocolate made of pure ingredients such as 70% or more of cocoa and coconut oil is an amazing snack that can greatly boost mood and brain health. Dark chocolate is very nutritious and is a powerful source of antioxidants. It may improve blood flow and help lower blood pressure. Dark chocolate is rich in minerals such as iron, magnesium, and zinc that contain antioxidants called flavonoids, that are essential for great brain health.
4. Walnuts
Walnuts are one of the top nuts for brain health because they have a significantly high concentration of DHA, which is type of Omega-3 fatty acid. Omega-3 fatty acids are also found in fatty fish like salmon. DHA has been scientifically proven to improve cognitive performance in adults, and prevent or slow down the age-related cognitive brain degenerative diseases. Walnuts can also reduce the risk of other diseases such as cardiovascular disease, depression and type 2 diabetes.
"Darker berries support memory function."
5. Oatmeal
Not only is oatmeal a popular breakfast food that has plenty of fiber to keep hunger at bay, it is also an item of food that contains potassium, B vitamins, zinc, and iron that help the brain develop and help the brain to function at its full capacity. Oatmeal is a great brain food because the brain needs glucose to perform properly. Oatmeal is at the top of the list of foods recommended by top health and fitness experts as it provides the glucose you need to fuel your body.
6. Coffee
Caffeine helps promote central nervous system stimulation which makes people feel alert. Caffeine acts as a stimulant to the central nervous system working by blocking the neurotransmitter adenosine’s receptors, increasing excitability in the brain. Coffee is one of the best sources of neuroprotective antioxidants available.
"Coffee is one of the best sources of neuroprotective antioxidants available."
7. Avocados
There are so many great things to say about avocados, but this creamy and rich in texture fruit is a great source of heathy fats. Avocados are bursting with nutrition that make them so amazing for brain and heart health. They help promote blood flow to the brain. They are full of folate, vitamin B, C, and E. Avocados are also great for helping to lower blood pressure
"Eggs can prevent brain shrinkage and delay cognitive decline."
8. Eggs
Eggs are a great source of fat and protein to eat especially in the mornings when waking up to balance blood sugar levels. They are loaded with vitamins and minerals that help the brain function and stabilize blood glucose levels throughout the day, as opposed to sugary breakfast cereals. Eggs for breakfast can prevent brain shrinkage and delay cognitive decline due to its content of folic acid, vitamin B-6, and vitamin B-12.