Five Ways to Support Brain Health

Five Ways to Support Brain Health

How’s your brain health?

Chances are, if you’re like most people, you don’t give it much thought.

But even though your body as a whole is a self-sustaining mechanism, chances are you can get a little more leverage and mental sharpness by paying a bit more attention to brain-healthy habits.

Because think about it – your brain is a precious possession. It’s the organ that controls your thoughts, memories, and emotions. It’s also responsible for your body’s coordination and movement.

In this article, we’ll go over the 5 best ways to support brain health.

But first…

The Mystery Of Life

The brain and consciousness have long been some of the most puzzling and intriguing areas of scientific research. Despite hundreds of years of study, we still do not fully understand how they work or why they are so complex.

Some have even argued that the brain and consciousness are essentially ununderstandable objects due to their complexity. Yet despite this challenge, scientists continue to explore these areas in order to unlock new secrets about the nature of our minds and how we perceive the world.

Rather than viewing the brain and consciousness as insurmountable obstacles, many researchers see them as exciting avenues for discovery.  These scientists recognize that every day we learn more about our brains, whether through studies of animal behavior or advances in brain imaging technology.

And as we gain a better understanding of these core components of ourselves, it is clear that we will be able to make incredible progress in many other areas of science, from medicine to psychology to engineering.

Indeed, the brain remains one of the last great frontiers for human knowledge, waiting for us to conquer it with curiosity and determination.  Rest assured, though, you don’t really need to be a scientist and have a lab, in order to do things that are beneficial for your brain.

Here are our top 5 brain-healthy habits.

#1 Brain-Nurturing Foods

When the task is to keep your brain healthy and well-functioning, there are some specific nutrients that are pivotal. And well, it is no secret that nutrition plays a crucial role in the body’s overall health, including that of the brain!

The most important nutrients for the brain include:

  1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids
  2. Calcium
  3. B-Vitamins
  4. Vitamins D & E
  5. Magnesium

Below, you can find the top 10 favorite food products on our list, that are abundant in these essential nutrients:

  1. Leafy green vegetables
  2. Walnuts
  3. Almonds
  4. Broccoli
  5. Berries (blueberries, strawberries, etc.)
  6. Salmon
  7. Sardines
  8. Olives
  9. Whole eggs
  10. Dark chocolate

By including these ingredients in your diet on a regular basis, you can help give your brain what it really needs to stay strong and perform at its best. So be sure to add plenty of these brain-nurturing foods to your meals starting today!

#2 Braining!

Keeping your brain active is essential for maintaining a healthy and efficient brain. Our brains are constantly working, taking in information and making connections to help us understand the world around us.

However, without adequate stimulation, the neurons in our brains can become sluggish and slow down this crucial activity.  To keep the mind sharp and your brain functioning at its best, it is important to practice activities that help to activate and challenge your neural networks. This might include anything from puzzle games and crossword puzzles to music lessons or learning a new language.

By constantly engaging your brain and keeping it active, you can enjoy the many benefits of a healthy and capable mind. So don’t underestimate the power of keeping your brain active – with a little braining (brain training), you can live life to the fullest!

#3 The Social Aspect

Besides good food and mental activity in solitude, it has been suggested that there is a strong link between having a good social life and maintaining a healthy brain. The concept is simple – interacting with others helps you use (and improve) cognitive function and, thereby, improve mood and keep your mind sharp even as you age.

Furthermore, having an active social life can reduce stress levels, thereby limiting its harmful effects on the brain. Whether you are outside with friends or trying to make new connections through networking and local meetups, it is clear that having a social life is one of the keys to staying mentally sharp for years to come.

#4 Sleep

Though we may not understand exactly how sleep works, it is an essential component of mental health and well-being. Whether we are resting after a long day at work or catching up on needed rest during the weekend, sleep is crucial in the context of enabling our brains to function properly.

Not only does it allow us to charge up the brain and clear away neural detritus from the day’s activities, but it also seems to be crucial to maintaining our ability to form memories. Additionally, good quality sleep can improve mood by helping to keep stress levels in check.

Thus, though we cannot fully explain why or how our brains benefit from sleep, it is a crucial factor for maintaining mental health and performance.  So don’t skimp on those precious hours of shut-eye – get yourself at least 6!

#5 Exercise

Many people view training primarily as a way to sculpt their bodies and improve their physical fitness. But what many don’t realize is that exercise can also have a profound impact on our brains.

Working out may boost cognitive function, increase memory, and even help prevent certain diseases. And while any kind of exercise can be beneficial, it seems that high-intensity training like weightlifting may be particularly effective when it comes to improving brain health.

With this in mind, if you want a workout that will give your body and your mind a real boost, head to the gym and get moving! The benefits of just 2-3 sessions a week may just surprise you.

Final Thoughts

So, what can you do to support your brain health? Plenty!

Just make sure that you’re incorporating a variety of activities into your life and giving your brain the chance to work in different ways. And don’t forget to keep learning – it’s one of the best things you can do for your brain!

Can you think of (no pun intended) anything else you’d add to this list?

Let us know in the comments below.

 

Five Ways to Support Brain Health

Three Foods to Boost Health

We’ve all been there – you eat an unhealthy meal and instantly regret it. Your stomach feels bloated, you feel tired, and all you can think about is how to make yourself feel better again. Eating nutritious foods is one way to boost your health and avoid dreaded regretful meals.

In this article, we’ll give you our list of the 3 best foods to support your health, so without further ado, let’s get to it!

What Makes Food Healthy?

When we talk about nourishing food, there are many opinions out there about what is healthy and what isn’t. Some people swear by a strict diet of fresh fruits and vegetables, while others believe everything in moderation may be the key to good health.

So, what is the truth?

Unfortunately, there is no single answer that applies to everyone. There are guidelines that can help you make healthier choices. The primary consideration, in this context, is meeting the body’s needs and maintaining balanced body composition.

Meeting the body’s needs related to consuming sufficient protein and fats (both of which the body can’t produce entirely on its own) and consuming enough (but not too many) calories.

Following that train of thought, we can conclude that the healthiest foods are the ones that are most nutritious. Those are also very satiating, meaning that you’ll be less likely to overindulge!

Without further ado, let’s have a look at our 3 favorite foods to add to your nutrition plan.

Eggs

Eggs are often called “the perfect food,” and it’s easy to see why. They’re packed with nutrients and are easy for the body to digest. In fact, eggs are so nutrient dense that they’ve been used as a standard by which other foods are measured.

So, what makes eggs so special? They’re an excellent source of protein. Each whole egg contains 6 grams of protein, which is essential for building muscle, tissue, and enzymes and repairing the body.

The whole egg contains all the essential amino acids (building blocks of protein) your body needs to function properly. But eggs aren’t just about protein—they’re also a reliable source of healthy fats, minerals, and vitamins.

Simply put, whole eggs are one of the best foods you can eat, and that’s why they take the #1 spot on our list!

Beef

Beef has long been considered a dietary staple, and for a good reason. Not only is it loaded with high-quality protein, but it is also an excellent source of essential vitamins and minerals.

Beef is especially high in iron, which is essential for maintaining healthy blood cells, and vitamins from the B group, which are much needed for converting food into energy. Beef is an excellent source of zinc, which helps to boost the immune system.

While there are many different animal foods to choose from, beef is one of the best options because of its nutritional value. So next time you’re looking for a healthy and delicious meal option, reach for the medium rare steak!

Fruits & Veggies

Though commonly criticized by carnivore proponents, plants and fruits are essential for a healthy diet.

Fruits and vegetables are quite loaded with nutrients that are essential for good health, including vitamins, minerals, and fiber. They are low in calories and fat and also high in fiber, which is satiating. This makes them a great choice for people trying to lose weight. And contrary to widely held belief, meat is not the only source of protein. Plants such as beans, legumes, and tofu are all excellent sources of this essential nutrient.

So next time you’re considering skipping the salad in favor of a steak, remember that plants are an essential part of a health-supporting diet.

Grass-Fed & Organic

There are a lot of talks these days about grass-fed meat and organically grown plants. Some folks say one is better than the other, but there’s no definitive answer. In the end, it’s up to you to decide what you feel is best for your body.

If you feel that grass-fed meat is healthier for you and you feel better eating it, go for it. If you believe organic produce is the way to go, then stock your fridge with veggies and fruit that are free of pesticides and herbicides.

It’s all about listening to your body and making choices that make you feel good – both physically and mentally. So, if grass-fed meat or organic produce makes you happy, then opt for that! Your body will thank you for it.

Final Thoughts

The question about “healthy foods” is quite difficult to answer, but overall, one thing is for sure – we must meet the body’s needs by providing it with the nutrients it needs in sufficient amounts.

So, what are you waiting for? Add these nutritious foods to your grocery shopping list and start enjoying their health benefits today.

 

Which one is your favorite? Comment below, and let’s discuss!

Ten Stress Fighting Foods

Ten Stress Fighting Foods

How are you doing today?

Are you stressed?

You may have found this article because you are looking for foods to help with your current level of stress. Each of us face stressful situations during our lifetime. Whether we have stress during the week, a few times a month or several times a year, we will all face stressful situations at one point in our lives.

Others might have daily stress because of their job, career, family, relationships, or in other areas. One thing you to consider first is how to reduce the current amount of stress in your life.

While these foods will help, it is important for you to remember to breathe, pace yourself and look for additional ways to reduce stress.

What we eat has a powerful influence on our bodies. Many years ago, while studying computer science, I learned the ‘GIGO’ method of programming. ‘GIGO” means “Garbage In, Garbage Out.”  When programming, when you put “garbage code” into a computer, you will get garbage out. The purpose was to be sure we are putting pure code into the programs.

I have found, over my few years of life since then that the same principle applies to many other areas of life, including what we eat. If you put garbage into your body, you will get garbage out…but also, it is much more. When you put garbage food into your body, you might notice how your body feels sluggish and different.

Remember the sluggish feeling after eating fast food? How about the sluggish feeling after overeating sugar-filled food?

If you remember those times, you understand the importance of putting good food into your body.

When it comes to a stressful life, how can changing your food intake change the way you deal with stress?

Where to Start

First, you need to achieve a healthy, balance diet. Be sure you are not “stress-eating” and filling your body with junk food. This might be one of the hardest steps in the process of eating healthy.

Many people will eat high-sugar content foods during stressful times. It is easy to feel so stressed that you grab the first thing you see. Be sure to keep a record of your eating habits normally, but especially during stressful times. Having a record of your food intake will help you in creating a healthy balance.

For instance, foods such as whole grains, leafy vegetables, and lean proteins are the best way to ensure that you are getting the optimum amounts of nutrients to fight both physical and mental health problems. These foods will also not give you the sluggish feeling you experience after eating junk food.

When it comes to choosing the foods to eat, some help the body to combat stress. Choosing these stress-busting foods will help to calm your mind permanently, rather than providing a temporary fix.

Some of the best stress-fighting foods include:

#1 – Avocado

Avocados are a versatile fruit which can be eaten in a range of different ways whether you enjoy it raw, made into sauces, dressings and dips, or in a smoothie.

Avocados These nutrient-dense fruits have the properties to stress-proof your body, thanks to their high glutathione content which specifically blocks the intestinal absorption of certain fats which cause oxidative damage.

Avocados also contain higher levels of vitamin E, folate, and beta-carotene than any other fruit, which boosts their stress-busting properties. However, be careful with portion control when eating avocado, as it is high in fat.

Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Avocados
Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Blueberries

#2 – Blueberries

If you’re feeling stressed out and reaching for the snacks, consider swapping chocolate or chips for one of the best superfoods…blueberries. This is a great way to help you deal with your stress levels and achieve a higher level of calm.

You may already know that blueberries have some of the highest levels of antioxidants, especially antho-cyanin, which means that this berry has been linked to a wide range of health benefits including sharper cognition, better focus, and a clearer mind – all of which can help you to better deal with stress.

#3 – Chamomile Tea

You must remind yourself that it’s not all about what you’re eating when it comes to managing stress. What you’re drinking can also alleviate or worsen the stress you’re feeling.

Drinking liquids which are high in sugars, high-fructose corn syrup, and caffeine can increase your stress levels. These drinks include most soft drinks, coffee, and energy drinks. For many people, these are the drinks they run to first when feeling stressed.

Chamomile tea has long been used as a natural bedtime soother. It has also been used in clinical trials, which determined that chamomile tea is effective in reducing the symptoms of generalized anxiety disorder.

Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Avocados
Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Blueberries

#4 – Chocolate

This is the one most people run to once stress begins to take hold. It is also one which can go both ways; both positive and negative.

While it’s usually seen as an unhealthy treat, there is an undeniable link between chocolate and our mood. Studies have shown that eating chocolate can make you happier. However, that doesn’t mean that you can start munching on chocolate bars every time you’re stressed.

Chocolate works best as a de-stressor when eaten in moderation and as part of a healthy and balanced diet. Dark chocolate is best for you, as it contains more flavanols and polyphenols, two hugely important antioxidants which can help combat stress, more than many fruit juices.

The next time you buy chocolate look for dark chocolate (at least 90% cocoa).  Also, remember not to overeat chocolate, even dark chocolate, because overeating will take away the good benefits you might experience.

#5 – Beef

While beef will assist you in relieving stress through a healthy-balanced diet, there might be greater benefits in grass-feed beef. Studies are still be conducted to see the benefits and differences.

Grass-fed beef will cost most due to various factors, but the benefits you might feel can outweigh the costs. I would do your own research with your eating habits to see if you find a difference.

Grass-fed beef has a vast range of antioxidants, including beta-carotene and vitamins C and E, which can help your body to fight stress and anxiety.

If you’re looking for more reasons to spend a little more money on organic, grass-fed beef, it’s also lower in fat than grain-fed beef whilst being higher in omega-3.

Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Avocados
Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Blueberries

#6 – Oatmeal

When you think of oatmeal, you typically think of it as a breakfast food. However, oatmeal can be a filling comfort food, and has many healthy properties to make you feel better from the inside out.

As a complex carbohydrate, oatmeal causes your brain to produce higher levels of the feel-good chemical serotonin. This helps you to feel calmer and less stressed. Studies have shown that kids who choose oatmeal for breakfast tend to be much sharper throughout the morning in school compared to kids who had alternative morning meals.

As an adult, this might be the food needed to calm your stressful day; not only as a breakfast food, but as food to eat anytime.

#7 – Walnuts

A walnut is not the way some think when they think of a stress soothing food. However, if you’re looking for a healthy snacking option which will help you to stay better in control of your stress levels, walnuts are a great choice.

Eating a handful of walnuts helps manage the stress thay you place on your heart and cardiovascular system.

The sweet flavor of walnuts can be a tasty snack for in-between meals or as part of a desert. A versatile nut, walnuts are great for salads, or add them to a sweet treat such as coffee and walnut cake.

Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Avocados
Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Blueberries

#8 – Pistachios

Another food which most do not think of but is great for snacking and can also help to combat stress and anxiety in the long term is pistachios.

Studies have found that eating two small, snack-size portions of pistachios per day can lower vascular constriction when you are stressed. This means you are putting less pressure on your heart by further dilating your arteries.

Along with the effects of pistachios on your heart, the rhythmic, repetitive act of shelling pistachios can be quite therapeutic. It will give you time to relax as you shell the pistachio.

#9 – Green Leafy Vegetables

As you probably already know, green, leafy vegetables should be a pivotal part of anyone’s diet. Also, you will find that green, leafy vegetables influence reducing your stress levels and the effects of stress on your body.

Along with helping to combat stress, leafy greens are full of nutrients and antioxidants which help to fight off disease and leave your body feeling healthier and more energized. Dark leafy greens, for example spinach, are especially good for you since they are rich in folate, which helps your body to produce more mood-regulating neurotransmitters such as serotonin, which is a ‘feel-good’ chemical.

I encourage you to make leafy greens a part of your diet. This will help you to feel happier and less stressed out overall.

Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Avocados
Ten Stress Fighting Foods - Blueberries

#10 – Fermented foods

Finally, on our list of stress fighting food are fermented foods.

Did you know that eating fermented foods such as yogurt can help to keep your gut healthy?

This benefit to gut health will help to improve your mental health and reduce stress levels. The beneficial bacteria which are found in fermented foods such as yogurt have a direct effect on your brain chemistry and transmit positive mood and behavior regulating signals to your brain via the vagus nerve.

The vagus nerve is the tenth cranial nerve. It is one of the longest nerves in the body and controls your mood, heart rate, digestion and immune response.

As we have talked about these foods, it is important to note that we are not experts, and everyone’s body was created differently. These are ten foods that we have found to combat stress in your daily life. These foods are also known to aid your system in fending off bacteria and other harmful elements which attack your body.

We would encourage you to consult with your doctor or medical professional before beginning and major change in your food routine. Also, just because these might work for one person, may not mean the make a difference to you.

It is important that you know your body and food sources. We will encourage you to seek the best life possible by being the best person you can be and consuming the fuel needed for your daily life.

Stay well and work hard.

To your success,