Brain is the powerhouse of our bodies. Apart from being highly complex, it is also susceptible to neurological diseases which are on an all-time high due to our disruptive modern lifestyle. Hence, it becomes imperative to take care of the brain, especially in stressful times like these.
According to almost all the nutritionists across the world, the most crucial step to keep it healthy is to supply it with a healthy diet with certain foods that nourish the brain. Diet is one of the most significant aspects of taking care of this precious organ. This diet should include a lot of fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains.
Here is a list of foods that nourish the brain
Berries
Helps improve memory
According to recent studies, berries contain a substance called flavonoid that gives these berries their color. It is a natural plant pigment that helps improve memory. Include indigenous berries like mulberry (shahtoot), gooseberry (amla), cape gooseberry (rasbhari) apart from other popular berries to benefit from the goodness of flavonoids.
Leafy vegetables:
Provides with nourishment
India has an abundance of regional leafy greens that are full of iron and other minerals and nutrients. Spinach (palak), fenugreek (methi), amaranth (chaulai), and mustard greens (sarson) are leafy greens or saag as they are commonly called that we have grown up with.
Turmeric:
The Ayurvedic healer
Curcumin, the main compound found in turmeric that gives it the golden yellow hue, has been recently found to benefit brain cells. It also helps battle cancer. Curcumin is especially beneficial to people with Alzheimer’s.
Broccoli:
Helps form the brain cells
Broccoli is loaded with antioxidants and Vitamin K. This fat-soluble Vitamin is essential for forming brain cells. Apart from that, broccoli is also packed with anti-inflammatory compounds that help in keeping up the immune system.
Walnuts:
Helps in brain development|
Nuts are excellent sources of protein and healthy fat. Walnuts, especially, might also improve memory. They are high in a type of omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid which helps lower blood pressure and protects arteries. That is good for both the heart and brain.
Pumpkin seeds:
Keeps the brain active
Pumpkin seeds are not only a significant part of Indian traditional kitchen, but they also contain powerful antioxidants that protect the body and brain from free radical damage. They are also an excellent source of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. Pumpkin seeds help in fighting neurological diseases like Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and Parkinson’s disease. You can likely reap their benefits by adding pumpkin seeds to your diet.
Green tea:
Gives the boost to the brain
The caffeine in green tea boosts brain function. Not only that, studies have shown that green tea also improves alertness, performance, memory, and focus. It also has other components that make it a brain-healthy beverage. L-theanine is an amino acid that can cross the blood-brain barrier and increase the activity in there, which helps reduce anxiety and makes you feel more relaxed. Plus, green tea improves memory.
You can help support your brain health and boost your alertness, memory, and mood by strategically including these foods that nourish the brain in your diet.
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