Some experts have recently shared their thoughts on how a person can improve the health of their brain through their food choices.
Scientists have more and more connected the contemporary highly processed diet to negative brain health ultra-processed along with obesity, lending stronger scientific support to the idea that we are shaped by our eating habits. However, earlier this year, a ranking positioned Texas as the 43rd state in terms of brain health. obesityThis became more evident with a study that placed Texas at a low 43rd spot for brain health, particularly due to low levels of exercise and poor eating habits among its residents, both of which directly affect the brain in various ways. For example, carrying extra weight can restrict blood flow to the brain, raise inflammation, and lead to insulin resistance. All these factors hinder cognitive functions and increase the risk of dementia and other issues. ranking The Dallas Express
As covered in reported that people in Texas ranked poorly in regular exercise and healthy eating, both of which directly affect brain health. Carrying extra weight can restrict blood flow to the brain, raise inflammation, and lead to insulin resistance. These factors hinder cognitive functions and increase the risk of dementia and other issues.For example, carrying extra weight can restrict blood flow to the brain, raise inflammation, and lead to insulin resistance—all of which hinder cognitive functions and increase the risk of dementia and more.
Two individuals who graduated from Harvard, Uma Naidoo, a nutritionist and MD, and Lisa Genova, a neuroscientist and Ph.D., emphasized the importance of including leafy greens in a brain-boosting diet. Speaking with CNBC, both experts highlighted the advantages of incorporating generous amounts of leafy greens, such as kale, swiss chard, lettuce, and spinach, into our meals. agreed They mentioned that leafy greens are essential for maintaining a healthy brain due to their rich nutrient content. One of the most important nutrients is vitamin B, which comes in various forms. For instance, vitamin B9, also known as folate, supports brain and neurological health, optimal neurotransmitter function, and balanced psychological health, as explained by Naidoo.
Lack of vitamin B, particularly vitamin B12, has been associated with
. Also, there is evidence to indicate that vitamin B6 helps prevent a decline in cognitive abilities, as studies have shown that this nutrient reduces the levels of homocysteine, a protein linked to a higher risk of Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions. depressiona deficiency in vitamin B12. Additionally, studies suggest that vitamin B6 has a positive impact on cognitive decline by reducing the levels of a protein called homocysteine, which is associated with a greater risk of Alzheimer’s disease and more. evidence Leafy greens are also abundant in lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, potent antioxidants that have been shown to improve cognitive function in scientific studies. While beta-carotene is a precursor of vitamin A, lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids and therefore play
beneficial roles in the brain and the rest of the body, particularly the eyes. shown to enhance Studies have shown that lutein, zeaxanthin, and beta-carotene, powerful antioxidants found in leafy greens, can enhance cognitive function. Additionally, beta-carotene serves as a dietary precursor of vitamin A, while lutein and zeaxanthin are carotenoids that play significant roles in the brain and the rest of the body, especially the eyes. protective Another advantage of leafy greens is their high dietary fiber content, which is crucial for brain and digestive health.
Another benefit of leafy greens is their high fiber content, which is important for both brain and digestive health.
In general, there is ample evidence to support the idea that leafy greens are a crucial part of maintaining brain health as we get older. A study published in Neurology in 2018 discovered that individuals who frequently consumed leafy greens had cognitive abilities that were up to 11 years younger than those who rarely or never ate them. study If you're not a fan of leafy greens, even when blended into a more enjoyable shake, there are other foods known to enhance brain function, such as:
In case leafy greens aren’t appealing to you, even when mixed into a more palatable shake, don't worry. There are other foods recognized for boosting brain power, including: including:
- Berries rich in flavonoids (strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries)
- Dark chocolate
- Fish (salmon, tuna, or trout)
- Nuts, especially almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts
