Nutrition For The Brain
By Leslie Weinman, Functional Nutritionist, Clinical Herbalist
Our brain is an extraordinary organ made up of approximately 100 billion cells. Each brain cell can make an average of 1,000 synaptic connections. It’s amazing! We need to take special care of our brains following a preventative approach against dementia and brain disorders, which are on the rise every year.
In order to care for our brain, we need to eat a healthy diet rich in organic vegetables of all colors, as well as good sources of fats & proteins. A healthy plate should contain one-half organic veggies such as broccoli, kale, spinach for green veggies, carrots & squash for orange veggies, tomatoes and peppers for red veggies to name a few. Pick your favorite veggies and rotate them around to include all the different nutrients.
Our brain is made up of 90% fat. Eating fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel are good foods for the brain, and they contain protein as well as fat. Phospholipids form a lipid membrane, so include foods that contain phospholipids, such as soy, eggs, lean meats, organ meats, fish, and shellfish. One quarter of your plate should contain a healthy protein, one quarter a healthy whole grain such as quinoa or brown rice, and the other half veggies, which I previously mentioned.
Good nutrition for the brain doesn’t end with what you put in your mouth. It’s important to address any underlying health conditions, reduce toxin exposure, practice stress management, good sleep hygiene, exercise, reduce alcohol intake, and regulate blood sugar. Listen to Mozart for the brain and learn a new skill to improve plasticity in the brain. Have gratitude, be happy, and focus on all the joy in your life!