• Saturday January 21st
  • Got Foods for A Healthy Brain?

  • What if I told you about some foods for a healthy brain. Would you eat them? Would you be surprised to know you're probably not getting the foods you need now? Even if you think you eat pretty healthy now, nutrition experts say most Americans are deficient in these nutrients.

    A hundred years ago, our ancestors got enough foods for a healthy brain. They ate only whole foods. There was no such thing as packaged, processed foods then. But over the past century, there's been a dramatic shift in the way we eat and now, most Americans don't get the nutrients they need.

    Got Fats?

    Turns out you've got a "fat head"! We all do. Your brain is made of fats. But not just any fats. Most people are getting the wrong kind. Are you?

    Research shows your brain needs omega 3 fatty acids. One of these fatty acids is called DHA and it's a crucial part of your brain function. If you don't get enough, your body will try to compensate but the "replacement" fatty acids can be damaging. Tests show people with depression and ADD have high amounts of these replacement fats.

    Go Fishing

    The best foods for a healthy brain include fish. That's because fish is full of DHA. You might have heard fish called "brain food" and that's why. Your brain needs the DHA to stay sharp.

    The best fish to eat are the ones low on the food chain. Smaller fish like sardines or herring simply have fewer places for toxins like mercury to hang out. Wild caught salmon, tuna and hoki are also good. Experts recommend eating fish 2-3 times a week for the most benefit. But limit your eating of big fish like swordfish and king mackerel. They can have the highest levels of toxins because of their size.

    Other sources for foods for a healthy brain include avocadoes, olive oil and walnuts. These are good sources of omega 3's. But fish have the highest levels of DHA.
     
    Nutrients for A Healthy Brain

    Getting enough DHA can help children learn language and motor skills quickly. It can help them concentrate in school. A U.K. study gave children diagnosed with ADD and ADHD high doses of omega 3 fish oil pills over a period of six months. Every child improved his or her grades and levels of focus in school.

    When you're older, DHA will help your brain to  stay sharp. It helps messages get through and keeps your brain "wiring" operating efficiently.