Food for Thought: Tips On How To Improve Your Mental Health

Have you ever heard the expression Food for Thought?

It turns out that there are several healthy foods that are good for your mood, mental health and your memory.

What foods are beneficial for your mental health and or mood?

• Fatty fishes are rich in Omega 3s essential for brain function.
• Blueberries and other deeply colored berries deliver anthocyanins, a group of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. Antioxidants act against both oxidative stress and inflammation, conditions that can contribute to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
• Turmeric, specifically Curcumin, the active ingredient in turmeric, has been shown to cross the blood-brain barrier, meaning it can directly enter the brain and benefit the cells there.
• Broccoli is packed with powerful plant compounds, including antioxidants as well.
• Pumpkin seeds contain powerful antioxidants that protect the body and brain from free-radical damage. They are also an excellent source of magnesium, iron, copper and zinc. Zinc is crucial for nerve signaling and has been linked to neurological conditions, including Alzheimer’s disease, depression, and Parkinson’s disease.
• Nuts help with heart health and heart health has been linked with brain health. One study found that regular consumption of nuts could be linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline in older adults.
• Oranges as you know are a wonderful source of Vitamin C which has powerful antioxidants as well.
• Eggs are a good source of several nutrients tied to brain health, including vitamins B6 and B12, folate, and choline.
• Green Tea contains caffeine like coffee which is good for brain function such as memory and focus. However, green tea also contains L-theanine, an amino acid that can cross the blood-brain barrier and increase the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which helps reduce anxiety and makes you feel more relaxed-theanine also increases the frequency of alpha waves in the brain, which helps you relax without making you feel tired.
• Dark chocolate and cocoa powder believe it or not are packed with a few brain-boosting compounds, including flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants.