Eat Smart…Stay Smart

The brain is considered to be one of the most important organs in our body. However, it is quite fragile and needs some tender, loving care. If we do not use our brain properly or if it gets abused continuously, our brain may be ready to bow out first. Factors that may make our brain deteriorate faster than Mother Nature are as follows:

1. Free radicals. Studies have shown that accumulation of free radicals correlates with brain deterioration, including Alzheimer’s Disease.
2. Vascular disease. The blood vessels are like a hose that brings nutrients to the brain. If there is a clot, then the brain may not get enough nutrients, thereby contributing to degeneration.
3. Malnutrition. The most important nutrients for the brain are vitamin B1, B12 and folic acid. People who consume alcohol regularly and those who are strict vegetarian are at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency.
4. Comorbidity. Some diseases that affect other system, such as liver disease, kidney disease, and thyroid, may lead to brain degeneration if left untreated.
5. Brain trauma. People who play contact sports or sports that cause head injuries are at risk.
6. Toxicity. Prolonged use of certain drugs, such as sleep aid medication and anti-depressants, may accumulate in the body overtime and may affect brain function.

• Exercise regularly, especially cardios (run, swim, bike).
• Fill your body with anti-oxidants, especially fruits and vegetables, such as blueberries, which are considered to be brain food.
• Socialize with your friends. Meeting new people is also a brain exercise.
• Keep a diary. Thinking and writing are equivalent to weightlifting for the brain. It can help slow down degeneration.
• Learn something new, such as a third language, dancing or music. Think of it as updating your smart phone to a newer version. It keeps the brain fresh and up-to-date.
• Meditate daily to give your brain a rest. It can improve your memory.

• Don’t let your blood pressure rise or get high blood cholesterol. They are the main culprit in damaging your blood vessels and can cause a clot or a stroke to block nutrients from the brain.
• Don’t play contact sports that may lead to head trauma. Your brain is too fragile for boxing or rugby.
• Don’t drink alcohol. Studies have shown that alcoholics have smaller brains due to atrophy.
• Don’t stress out. Lack of sleep or stress can destroy your brain. Stress hormones or cortisols are released in high amounts during stress and lack of sleep. These hormones directly affect the hippocampus or the part of your brain that stores memory.
• Don’t vegetate for too long. Think of a care that has been parked for a long time. If you are retired and have nothing to do, then the brain will not get properly stimulated.
• Don’t consume any toxins that directly affect your brain, such as paint thinners, glue, recreational drugs, pesticides, mercury, etc.

When we make a merit, we always ask for good health. In reality, we can determine whether we will be healthy or not by changing our lifestyle.

Photo Credit: foodswings via Compfight cc