There are numerous foods available to us that are capable of boosting our cognitive abilities. We usually think we must take a drug or a supplement in order to boost the power of our brain. The following list contains 7 foods found in nature that can increase our brain power:
1. Whole grains– These foods are complex carbohydrates which take longer for our digestive system to break down into glucose. Glucose is responsible for supplying energy to the brain. Because it takes longer to digest, there is a steady stream of glucose available for the brain to use for energy. Simple carbs, like sugar, create spikes in our glucose which means at times, there is little glucose to utilize so your brain power diminishes. If we consume whole grains such as oatmeal, we should have ample energy for our brain to use until we eat again.
2. Beets– Glucose and oxygen are two substances that the brain uses for fuel. Beets have nitrates in them that will open up the blood vessels to the brain and allow more fuel to reach there. If the brain receives more fuel, you will have more energy. Some diseases such as ischemia can be prevented by having ample blood flow to the brain.
3. Leafy Greens– Free radicals are harmful byproducts created as energy is used. Anti-oxidants aid the brain in getting rid of these byproducts.
Because the brain weighs only about 3% of the body but uses 20% of the energy supplied, it has a better chance of being hurt by the byproducts being given off as energy is used. Leafy greens have large amounts of carotenoids in them which are anti-oxidants.
4. Eggs– Eggs supply great amounts of choline to the body. Choline is a crucial nutrient used in making acetylcholine. Learning and memory are modulated by neurotransmitters such as acetylcholine. Some types of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease may be caused by low amounts of acetylcholine in the body.
5. Nuts– Cashews, walnuts, and almonds release big amounts of mono- and polyunsaturated fats. These fats are responsible for controlling inflammation and the flow of blood around the brain. Circulatory diseases such as ischemia may be controlled by these fats. These diseases often occur in people with head trauma and the elderly.
6. Fish– This is obvious because it contains huge amounts of fatty acids called omega 3. There are many great beneficial effects such as helping depression. It also supplies certain compounds utilized by the brain to create cell membranes. This is essential to the function of cells and the overall function of the brain.
7. Lentils and beans– There are large amounts of folic acid present in kidney beans, lentils and other legumes. An example of a folate is folic acid. This nutrient helps adequate circulation of blood in the body and to the brain. When there is proper circulation, homocysteine is prevented from building up. Folic acid is extremely important for pregnant woman because if woman don’t get enough, birth defects such as spina bifeda can result.
