180 Nutrition: There are all kinds of superfoods out there, ranging from delicious acai berries to top protein blends for peak health. And as Vogue Australia reports, many easily-accessible, locally-sourced superfoods are full of vitamins and minerals which work to keep you healthy. While these superfoods can help all parts of your body to function correctly, it’s also true to say that there are some specific benefits that eating these items can have on your brain. Here are some of the top effects that superfoods can have on your brain function.
Help seniors with Parkinson’s
Superfoods are useful to everyone, but they can specifically impact those who are a little older. For example, lots of super-nutritious items are on many lists of right foods for people with Parkinson’s disease. This condition affects a lot of seniors, and – other than Alzheimer’s – it’s believed to be the most common age-related neurodegenerative health condition, and it affects some of the nerves in the brain which produce the chemicals you need to stay moving. Some superfoods are particularly useful for people with this condition, such as whole grains like spelt and vegetables which are high in fibre.
Try some exotic cacao
While most people may think of hot chocolate or delicious sweets when they think of cacao and its derivatives, there are plenty of healthy brain benefits in this natural, antioxidant-packed treat. Raw and organic Peruvian cacao in this format is a natural mood lifter, which means it’s a great tool to combat some of the low feelings everyone can have from time to time. It’s also full of magnesium, which is known for improving memory formation.
Cut down on stress
With The Sydney Morning Herald reporting that half of severely depressed Australians claim that workplace stress is the cause of their condition, it’s clear that wider knowledge of stress-busting lifestyle changes can only be a good thing. Eating superfoods is a great way to do this, and for those who eat meat, it’s believed that turkey breast is one good way to go. That’s because it contains tryptophan, and the human body likes this because it can easily switch it over into the happiness-boosting chemical serotonin. Spinach, meanwhile, helps your brain produce folate, which has a similar effect.
There are all kinds of brain superfoods out there on the market. But with so many to choose from, it can be hard to find what works best for you. It’s important to think about what brain health or lifestyle changes you’re looking to see in yourself. Whether it’s lower stress levels or a way to manage a specific condition like Parkinson’s, incorporating the right superfoods into your diet can work wonders.
This article was written by Jane Munro a health enthusiast and freelance writer.
