There is the notion that diet is only the food we eat. That is an oversimplification. Because if you eat healthily and do nothing else, you would still not have optimal health. Diet is a comprehensive series of actions that when done on a regular basis creates the following outcomes in the body. Optimal immune strength, balance blood sugar, healthy brain, proper breathing, healthy heart, firm muscle tone, strong bones, neurological balance, optimal weight and disease mitigation results in overall wellness. Therefore, to stimulate brain health, there has to be a comprehensive implementation of healthy habits that feeds all the body systems and organs to create homeostasis.
6 Steps To Creating a Healthy Brain
Let us now look at six important actions (a.k.a. diet items) that, when adopted, will create a healthier brain in the future:
1. The diet of exercise is instrumental to increase blood flow to the brain, carrying oxygen and nutrients to the always hungry brain. The brain is the biggest consumer of glucose and fat in the body. When the Cerebellum located at the base of the brain does not get proper nutrients, oxygen and blood flow, it will shrink and lose functionality, causing balance and other neurological issues. The two most beneficial physical exercises for brain health are aerobics and resistance muscle training. Stress reduction techniques should also be included daily to minimize chronic inflammation.
2. The diet of creating a healthy Microbiome. The stomach and the brain are directly connected through neurotransmitters that line the digestive tract. The Microbiome is a layer of bacteria that lines the stomach wall interior and helps to promote healthy digestion, reduce leakage of undigested foods into the bloodstream and create neurotransmitters. This bacterial wall creates a balance of good and bad bacteria from the foods consumed. A diet of unhealthy processed foods, antibiotics, medicines, antacids will kill healthy bacteria and lead to unhealthy digestion, leaky gut and inflammation. This will negatively impact brain health. The stomach Microbiome needs prebiotics (fiber) to feed the bacteria and a variety of probiotics to maintain a healthy gut.
3. The diet of eating a variety of nutritious chemical-free foods. Strive for a diet that is colorful like the rainbow, minimizes chemicals, is unprocessed, rich in vitamins and minerals, polyphenols, flavonoids Omego3 fats (olive, coconut, avocado) and a variety of nut and very dark chocolate.
4. The diet of sleep is not optional. Sleeping is when the brain cleans, repairs and lays down memories. Not getting good REM sleep is detrimental to brain health.
5. The diet of brain gymnastics. Continue learning and brain exercise. If the brain is not challenged the cell and neurons will die.
6. The diet of optimal and balanced hormones, vitamins and minerals should be optimized. This requires a blood test from your physician.
Sharon A. Fraser, Eatwell Consulting | eatwellconsulting.com
The information shared above is not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional and is not intended as medical advice. It is intended as a sharing of knowledge and information from the research and experience of Health and Diabetic Coach Sharon Fraser owner of eatwellconsulting.com. We encourage you to make your own health care decisions based upon your research and in partnership with your medical doctor.
This post is a sponsored collaboration between Eatwell Consulting and Lehigh Valley Style.
