Our bodies are made up of millions of cells. These cells function efficiently and effectively using the energy they obtain from food. The same rule of thumb applies for the cells in our brain. They feed off the food we eat for proper functioning. Nutrition unquestionably affects the way we feel about ourselves, the way we look and also, as research now shows, the way we think. A naturopath or nutritionist is able to assist when it comes to food for thought.
Memory is a very complex process - it requires a variety of nutrients sourced from different foods. Memory involves a reasonable amount of brain activity. This activity relies heavily on a healthy nervous system and a healthy blood circulation. In other words, healthy nerves and healthy blood flow equates to a well functioning memory.
Fat
Our brain is made up of 60% fat – easily done, right? Not so true. Read on. The average person in the developed world eats an abundant amount of fat, but is this the right fat? Is this the fat that helps us remember? Research shows that more and more people are filling up on fats from processed foods such as burgers, French fries, cookies, potato chips and cakes. The fat we need to be consuming comes from foods such as fish, flax seeds, coconut, nuts and seeds, avocado and olive oil. These healthy fats cannot be undervalued when it comes to how important these are for our brains and therefore our memories.
Antioxidants
Antioxidants are another very important component of a healthy brain. It is essential to attain antioxidant nutrients such as beta-carotenes, Vitamin C and Vitamin E. Manganese, zinc are important minerals for healthy functioning of the brain and its memory. These can be found in a variety of fruits and vegetables, the richer the colour, the richer the antioxidant supply. The simplest way of obtaining these nutrients is by consuming all the different foods of the rainbow!
Vitamin B
Vitamin B has been shown to be essential to improved function and memory of the brain. Many of the neurotransmitters (chemicals that serve as messengers) in our brain rely heavily on the B vitamins as cofactors in order to be synthesized.
Lecithin and Choline
It has long been known that these two nutrients are important components for the building of cell membranes, for the maintenance of myelin sheaths (the protective covering surrounding the nerves), muscle tissue and brain tissue. Choline is produced in the liver, but a bulk of it must be obtained from food in the form of lecithin. Lecithin is found in eggs, soybeans, peanuts, liver, cauliflower.
In the brain choline is synthesized into acetylcholine. Acetylcholine is an important neurotransmitter.
To conclude, nutrition and good food play an immense role in memory and brain. The two most important periods for eating for brain and memory is at the beginning and end of our lives. In between is important too as we struggle to remember all the mundane aspects of our lives! Cut down on processed food – increase the fruits, veggies, fish and healthy fats!
Originally published on Jan 11, 2012
