Hello friends
It is a sad fact we men do not really look after our brains which we all know is the only real brain around. We need to take better care of it as I will show in later post how complicated the male brain is and how heavily we exert it in daily living. Like this sad story:
http://abcnews.go.com/Health/MindMoodNews/star-wars-darth-vader-needed-therapy-blame-dark/story?id=10850290
Be it sleep disorder, concentration deficiency, depression or anxiety – the list is long and sometimes frightening. Most of the issues on mental health can be overcome by proper care – like everything else this takes patience and practice.
Episode I : The Brain Awakens – research is showing that you can increase your chances of maintaining a healthy brain well into your old age if you add these “smart” foods to your daily eating regimen.
Blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills
Deep-water fish – that are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are essential for brain function, such as wild salmons, sardines and herring. Omega-3s also contain anti-inflammatory substances, Try a 4-ounce serving, two to three times a week.
Nuts and seeds. Nuts and seeds are good sources of vitamin E, and correspond with less cognitive decline as you get older. Add an ounce a day of walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, filberts, almonds, cashews, peanuts, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flax seed, and unhydrogenated nut butters such as peanut butter, almond butter, and tahini. Raw or roasted doesn’t matter, although if you’re on a sodium-restricted diet, buy unsalted nuts.
Avocados. Avocados are almost as good as blueberries in promoting brain health, It’s a monounsaturated fat, which contributes to healthy blood flow and healthy blood flow means a healthy brain. Avocados also lower blood pressure, and as hypertension is a risk factor for the decline in cognitive abilities, a lower blood pressure promotes brain health
Whole grains. Whole grains, such as oatmeal, whole-grain breads, and brown rice can reduce the risk for heart disease. A 1/2 cup of whole-grain cereal, 1 slice of bread two-thee times day, or 2 tablespoons of wheat germ a day work for you.
Beans. Beans stabilize glucose (blood sugar) levels. The brain is dependent on glucose for fuel, and since it can’t store the glucose, it relies on a steady stream of energy. Any beans will do, but try 1/2 cup lentils or black beans every day.
Pomegranate juice or the fruit offers potent antioxidant benefits, which protect the brain from the damage of free radicals. Probably no part of the body is more sensitive to the damage from free radicals as the brain. Citrus fruits and colorful vegetables are also high on the list of “brainy” foods because of their antioxidant properties — the more colorful the better, Try approximately 2 ounces a day, diluted with spring water or seltzer.
Broccoli is great – containing sulforaphane that protects and heals the membrane of blood that surrounds the brain.
Freshly brewed tea. Two to three cups a day of freshly brewed tea — hot or iced — contains a modest amount of caffeine which, can boost brain power by enhancing memory, focus, and mood. Tea also has potent antioxidants, especially the class known as catechines, which promotes healthy blood flow. Tea bags do count.
Dark chocolate. Let’s end with the good stuff. Dark chocolate has powerful antioxidant properties, contains several natural stimulants, including caffeine, which enhance focus and concentration, and stimulates the production of endorphins, which helps improve mood. One-half ounce to 1 ounce a day will provide all the benefits you need. This is one “superfood” where more is not better. You have to do this one in moderation
Herbs
Ashwagandha in Indian Ayurveda helps combat symptoms of depression because it stimulates adrenergic signaling and lessens the chemicals associated with depression, such as clonidine and reserpine.
Brahmi affects and regulates the balance of the mind to be more beneficial to our overall mood and cognitive process.
Barleygrass has a magnificent nutrient profile, and is generally used as a great booster for the body and mind.
Gingko Biloba has potency to aid memory and thinking processes of those with Alzheimer’s or vascular dementia by protecting nerve cells
Bee Pollen contains the amino acids that can help emotional balance and contribute toward feelings of happiness. Bee pollen is one of nature’s superfoods; rich in vitamins, minerals, enzymes, amino acids and anti-oxidants. It is thought to be an immune system builder and also enhances vitality. CAUTION : Some men are extremely allergic to pollen.
Raw Coconut Oil specifically is thought to be very helpful in combatting Alzheimer’s through its exceptional fatty acid content, as has been demonstrated to good effect in several studies. Coconut mono triglycerides (fatty acids) are broken down in the body and become ketones which help in cognitive function by breaking down amyloid plaque in the brain.
Check these aids out:
https://brainhealth.acl.gov/brainy-resources/?Length=4
http://www.webmd.com/diet/features/eat-smart-healthier-brain#2
http://www.livescience.com/29365-human-brain.html
I welcome everyone to join in discussing the Healthy Side of the Force and how we can live ‘brainier’ and healthier lives.
Merry Christmas
Y_ 3 years, 1 month ago.
