The surprising effects of nutrition on the brain.

Studies show that what we eat influences how well our brain functions. In fact, diet can have a direct impact on our mood, energy levels, and even our ability to think. Food affects the neurons which are the major cells in your brain. An unhealthy diet rich in fats and sugars can cause inflammation of the neurons and the development of new neurons. This affects brain function and can lead to mental health issues that include: depression, anxiety, mood disorders, ADHD, PTSD and insomnia.

Nutrition plays an important role in the performance of our brain. It isn’t just our bodies that are affected by what we eat; our minds are affected as well. Nutritionists have found that people who eat a brain-healthy diet have better concentration and memory and have less difficulty solving problems. Eating foods that offer a lot of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants not only helps you feel good mentally, but it can also help slow down the loss of mental abilities as you age. It's important to avoid sugary foods/drinks, highly processed foods, refined carbohydrates, high food in trans fats, high mercury, and alcohol.

There are certain foods that you can incorporate into your diet to begin healing your brain. Before incorporating any of these food items into your diet, I recommend consulting with your doctor and nutritionist. They will assist you in creating a diet plan that’s right for you.

There are several foods that improve your brain health, but here are a few to get you started.

1. Green, leafy vegetables that contain vitamin K to improve memory.

2. Fruits high in vitamin C, which prevents brain cell damage and even Alzheimer’s.

3. Fatty fish and walnuts that contain omega 3 fatty acids, which help produce brain cells and improve depression.

4. Pumpkin seeds contain antioxidants, zinc, magnesium, copper, and iron. This helps with learning, memory, nerve signals, and brain fog.

5. Nuts that contain antioxidants and vitamin E can improve cognition, memory, and decrease mental decline.

6. Tea and coffee contain caffeine that improves focus and alertness.

7. Berries contain a combination of anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects reducing brain-aging and neurodegenerative disease.

8. Eggs and avocado are rich in vitamin B and oleic acid, which helps slow cognitive decline.

9. Dark Chocolate contains flavonoids, a type of antioxidant which can reverse issues with memory and learning.

10. Turmeric is an antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substance that improves memory and depression. It’s been linked to promote new brain cell growth.

Not only will a healthy diet benefit your brain health, it will improve your gut health. Our gut is our second brain. When the digestive system is healthy and working properly, you’ll experience physical health as well.