Brain Power

For the past couple of years, I have seen an increase in memory impairment, brain fog, insomnia, and other such brain function.  Today, we will explore what can help our brain.

A HEALTHY BRAIN

From birth, our brain continues to grow and develop till around 21 years of age. Our diet can help or hinder its development. The brain is said to be made up of 2/3   phospholipids or fat, making it the fattest organ in the body. DHA is the predominant structural fatty acid in the brain. While children are growing, their brain vitally needs healthy fats to develop properly. Coconut fits the bill and its oil is one of the few foods that can be classified as a “superfood”. 

  Coconut oil – contains medium chain triglycerides which are metabolized differently. They go straight to the liver, and are used as a quick source of energy, or they are turned into ketone bodies, which can have therapeutic effects on brain disorders like epilepsy and Alzheimers.   
    In several countries, where coconut is eaten as a staple, the people have thrived with excellent health and no evidence of heart disease. Almost 50% of the fatty acids in coconut oil is the 12-carbon Lauric Acid, and the breakdown product in coconut oil have been shown to kill pathogens, potentially helping to prevent infections. Another significant effect of coconut oil is in the ketogenic (very low carb, very high fat) diet. The MCTs can increase blood concentration of ketone bodies, which can help reduce seizures in epileptic children. Other theraputic effects of coconut oil are: reducing hunger, improving blood cholestrol levels, lowering risk of heart disease, helping lose weight, and boosting brain function in Alzheimer’s.
 

OTHER BRAIN POWER FOODS

   Blueberries have also been called “Brainberries”. In animal studies researchers have found that blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress, and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s or dementia. Studies have also shown that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging rats. 

   Turmeric contains curcumin and according to some authorities, the curcumin in turmeric can actually make the brain grow. Some studies show curcumin fights inflammation and blocks Alzheimer’s plaque formation. 

   Greens such as spinach and kale are full of folate and vitamins, which also help the brain. “Kale contains sulforaphane, a molecule that has detoxifying abilities, and diindolylmethane, which helps new brain cells grow,” says Ramsey, coauthor of 50 Shades of Kale. 

   Nuts and Seeds are packed with protein, essential fatty acids, and vitamins and minerals, nuts and seeds may boost mood and keep your nervous system happy. 

   Oatmeal is rich in protein and fiber which helps keep heart and brain arteries clear. In one study, kids who ate sweetened oatmeal did better on memory-related academic tasks than those who ate sugary cereal. 

   Fish is naturally fatty and a good source of vitamin D and omega-3s. These protect the brain against memory loss and cognitive decline. Sardines, salmon, and tuna are good sources of omega-3s. Make sure to eat wild caught as farmed fish are toxic.

Goat Milk is naturally homogenized, because of this the fat is easily absorbed and utilized. Children who drink goat milk are said to be smarter.  Although it takes around 2 hours to digest cow milk, it only takes 20 minutes to digest goat milk.

MindTrac is Dr. Christopher’s formula that combines herbs that help heal and nourish the brain.  It has been used for concussions, withdrawal from drugs, memory loss, brain help for exams, and basically anything that involves the brain.

I trust this has been helpful to you.  Feel free to contact us for any questions or concerns.