You know that your brain is important, of course. But did you realize that the food choices you make have a big impact on how well your brain functions, and, in turn, your quality of life?
Dr. Mark Hyman explains it all and how you can use food to feel better.
There are several symptoms that can occur when our brain is not getting the nutrients it needs. For example:
- “Brain fog”
- Low energy
- Trouble completing tasks
- Forgetfulness
- Needing stimulants such as coffee to get through the day
- Using depressants like alcohol to unwind at night
- Mood swings
The reality, according to Dr. Hyman, is that your brain is responding to the lifestyle choices you are making. If you are not getting enough sleep, exercising, or feel connected to other people your brain function is going to take a nose-dive.
However, for Dr. Hyman, the first culprit to investigate is your diet. If you have a poor diet your brain is not getting what it needs to be sharp and productive. He recommends:
- Eating whole foods that are fresh, locally made, and, when possible, organic.
- Stay away from sugar, preservatives, trans fats, and high fructose corn syrup.
- Choose fruits and vegetables with dark, rich colors which contain phytonutrients (like kale and blueberries).
- Eat healthy fats.
- Include about 30 grams of protein with each meal to build muscle, which in turn helps your brain function.
Your body needs high-quality fuel in order to function properly. By adjusting your diet towards organic whole foods with no additives or processing, you can begin to make the shift your brain needs to be sharp and fully functional.
Want to learn more about how your diet can have a big impact on your brain? You can read the full post by Dr. Mark Hyman here: Is Your Brain Broken?
