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Natural Awakenings Atlanta

Feed Your BRAIN

The food a person eats impacts the way the body looks and feels, and when it comes to gray brain matter, food really matters.

The gut and brain are connected. The gut helps keep immune responses and inflammation under control, and the gut hormones that enter the brain influence cognitive ability, like processing new information and helping people stay mentally focused. This is why people need a really powerful spore-based probiotic, not just a probiotic, to add friendly bacteria to the gut. It is one of the most important things a person can do to help their brain.

Foods rich in antioxidants, good fats, vitamins and minerals provide energy for the brain and help protect against brain diseases. Some foods are super power heroes when it comes to supporting the brain.

Avocados are one of the healthiest fruits to eat. They are high in monounsaturated good fats, which keep blood sugar levels steady and bring a glow to skin. Avocados contain vitamin K and folate, which help prevent blood clots in the brain and improve memory and concentration. They are rich in vitamin B and C and have the highest protein and lowest sugar content of any fruit.

Beets reduce inflammation and are high in cancer-protecting antioxidants that help rid the blood of toxins. Natural nitrates in beets boost blood flow to the brain, which helps mental performance. During tough workouts, beets help boost energy and performance.

Blueberries are one of the highest antioxidant-rich foods known to man and are full of vitamin C, K and fiber. Because they are high in gallic acid, blueberries protect the brain from degeneration and stress.

Broccoli’s high levels of vitamin K and choline help keep memory sharp. Just one cup of broccoli provides 150 percent of the daily recommended vitamin C.

Celery might be low in calories with just 16 per cup, but its high levels of antioxidants and polysaccharides are natural anti-inflammatories that help joint pain and irritable bowel syndrome. Because it is so nutrient-dense it is excellent for the brain.

Raw coconut oil works as a natural anti-inflammatory and can help with memory loss as people age. It also destroys the bad bacteria that can fill the gut.

Popeye knew the power of spinach for strength and muscles, but this incredible green leafy vegetable is a powerful brain food which helps keep dementia at bay and slows down mental deterioration. Spinach is loaded with vitamins A and K, which fight inflammation and keep the bones strong.

Rosemary herb, loaded with carnosic acid, helps protect the brain from neuro-degeneration. It does this by protecting the brain against chemical free radicals, which are linked to Alzheimer’s disease, strokes and normal aging in the brain. It also helps protect eyesight from deteriorating.

Turmeric is a simple spice that has been used throughout history for its healing properties. Curcumin, the chemical compound found in turmeric, is one of the most powerful and natural anti-inflammatory agents. It helps boost antioxidant levels, keeps the immune system strong and helps improve the brain’s oxygen intake. This keeps the brain alert and able to process information.

Walnuts can improve cognitive health. Their high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals help improve mental alertness. The vitamin E in walnuts also helps ward off Alzheimer’s.

Combine all of these foods into one delicious recipe for a powerhouse of brain support and deliciousness.

Brain Power Salad

  • 1 avocado
  • 1 cup beets
  • 1 cup celery
  • 1 cup broccoli
  • 1 cup walnuts
  • 4 cups spinach
Soak the walnuts in four cups of alkaline water for four hours to release enzyme inhibitors and drain. Chop the celery and broccoli. Grate the beets. Combine with the spinach and walnuts. Toss with the dressing. Top with avocado slices and feast on delicious brain food.

Dressing

  • 3 Tbsp coconut oil
  • 2 Tbsp lime or lemon juice
  • ¼ tsp rosemary
  • 1 tsp turmeric
  • 2 cups blueberries
  • 3 Tbsp coconut water
  • ¼ tsp Himalayan salt
  • pinch cayenne pepper
Combine all dressing ingredients blend into a creamy dressing.

Brenda Cobb is author of The Living Foods Lifestyle and founder of The Living Foods Institute, an educational center and therapy spa in Atlanta, offering healthy lifestyle Courses on nutrition, cleansing, healing, anti-aging, detoxification, relaxation and cleansing therapies. For more information, call 404-524-4488 or 800-844-9876 and visit LivngFoodsInstitue.com.

 

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