Tag Archives: Health

Brain Foods : Eating For Health, What About Brain Food?

Nowadays, it is always our topmost concern to eat a balanced diet and healthy food that would supplement and completes our body. We always strive to take those that will make us physically strong, trim, and fit. That more often, we tend to neglect a[art of the body that needs nourishment, too. It is an important part of body that also needs the quality food that it deserves so that it may function well and to the fullest, too. This is our brain. We should not only be concern about the food that we eat that eventually makes sour body healthy.

We also have to consider and give much thought on providing the food that will improve our brain function. These so-called “brain foods” will be maximizing our brain’s potentials so that we may be able to use it well. A diet that is heavy and healthy with, for instance, with the fatty acids of omega-3. These can keep and help the vessels of blood of our brain to clear of the unwanted blockages and eventually allow the nerve cells eventually to really function at its highest level

This is a good reminder for you to eat your fish at least two times a week since it is a major and important material of omega-3s, or you can also start taking a supplement.

And if it is important that we know the good food for the brain, it is also equally important to recognize and know the foods that can also diminish our brain power. For a start, some drugs and alcohol, of course, can really kill our brain’s cells directly, but other than these, there are also many that are alarmingly less obvious foods that attack our brain. Those foods that clogged the artery can eventually lead to the act of restricting the blood flow directly to the brain, and those foods called high-glycemic-index, on the other side, can cause those blood-sugar swings that can really make both our body and our mind sluggish and irritable.

The following foods are considered Good Brain Foods:

Collard greens
Peas
Avocados
Bananas
Chicken
Potatoes
Beef, lean
Eggs
Romaine Lettuce
Brewer’s yeast
Flaxseed oil
Salmon
Broccoli
Legumes
Spinach
Brown rice
Milk
Tuna
Brussels sprouts
Oatmeal
Turkey
Cantaloupe
Oranges
Wheat Germ
Cheese
Peanut Butter
Yogurt

On the other hand, the following are the Bad Ones:

Bad Brain Foods
Drinks with High sugar
Alcohol
Hydrogenated fats
Artificial food colorings
Junk Sugars
Artificial sweeteners
Nicotine
Colas
Overeating
Corn syrup
White Bread
Frostings

Accordingly, it is said that the best food for our brain are the complex carbohydrates. Since the molecules here are taking a long time, it will take longer for our intestines to eventually break them down into some simple sugars that our body can utilize. Hence, they can provide a steady energy source instead of a surge that is usually preceded by a plunge.

Take note that how we prepare and how we eat our food can also affect the way that our brain and body uses them. For example, when you eat sugar-loaded food after eating a meal with legumes can actually slow the sugar absorption; therefore preventing the thing called “sugar blues.”

Info is that proteins can also influence brain performance since they give out amino acids, and it is a fact that neurotransmitters are taken out of them. There are neurotransmitters that carry the needed signals from one brain cell and bringing it to another. So, the better that you take care of these messengers the surer you are of a more efficient delivery of these goods.

Then, amino acids like tyrosine and tryptophan are forerunners of neurotransmitters; these are the substances that make up neurotransmitters. You have to know that tryptophan is really an important amino acid and that it must be taken from your diet. And that tyrosine is really not a vital amino acid especially since the body can make it once there is a need for it.

One final note for all of us. Eating the right food in really helps, but it is important and try not to forget that even more when you have it out. This is why we can also give credit to fiber as the unrecognized brain food hero. So, include also a diet that is healthy with fibers.

Hal Johnson has been writing articles for nearly 4 years. Come visit his latest website Lamp Globes which helps people find information on Silk Lamp Shades and deals on all other types of lamps.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Hal_Johnson

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Mental Health Article : Brain Foods

Article by Keith A Sei

Habits to Keep the Brain Healthy:

The brain is considered as the central processing unit of the human body. It is the main organ that controls the rest of the bodily parts. And since the brain is like a muscle, it needs to be exercised regularly in order for it to stay in optimum condition.

It’s true that every organ in the body has an important role to play, but besides the heart, the brain is one organ you would want to keep healthy all the time. It is through the brain that we learn, think, and remember things, and if we fail to maintain its health, we may end up with a high risk for degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia. It’s a good thing that there are several things you can do to take proper care of your brain so that you don’t easily succumb to mental problems and brain diseases.

Stress is the number one cause of diseases and disorders in the bodily organs. If you want to maintain the youth and health of your brain, do your best to get rid of the stressors in your life. When you are under severe stress, hormones called cortisol rush to the hippocampus, the part of your brain that stores short term memory. When there’s too much cortisol rushing to the hippocampus, brain cells may die and result to poor learning and memory function. To avoid short term memory loss and improve your brain function, try some relaxation techniques that will help you eliminate or at least control stress. When you’re stressed, take long deep breaths to allow more oxygen to enter your brain. This encourages relaxation and helps improve your focus and concentration.

Sometimes, stress can be a result of lack of sleep. For your information, sleeping helps improve the brains health not only by reducing stress. Sleep is designed to allow damaged tissues in your body to heal. During sleep time, your body repairs the part of your brain that holds your memories together, making it an excellent activity to boost your long-term memory. Even a short nap during the day can boost the health of brain significantly. Some establishments in America allow their employees to take 20 minute power naps in the afternoon because they believe it can help improve their performance at work. This is quite true because according to studies, people who get at least 8 hours of sleep every day have sharper memories than those who only get 4-5 hours of sleep.

Speaking of sharper memory, playing brain games like scrabble, crossword puzzle, and Sudoku can richly enhance your mental ability. Whenever you spend time brainstorming or thinking hard on how you can win in Mastermind, the hippocampus in your brain generates new cells. The more mental stimulation and mental excitement you experience, the better.

Another more exciting way to improve your brain’s health is by feeding it. According to scientists, your thinking and your memory is greatly influenced by the kind of food that you eat. Since your brain is made up mainly of fat, what better way to fee it than by eating more fat? When we speak of fat, we’re referring to healthy fat or monounsaturated fat that you get from olive oil, avocado, canola oil, and nuts. If you’re not aware of it, Omega-3 that’s considered a brain food is actually a form of polyunsaturated fat. Include more Omega-3 -rich foods in your diet like tuna, sardines, salmon and mackerel. Other rich sources of Omega-3 are dark green leafy vegetables like spinach, asparagus, and broccoli. Alternatively, you can also improve your intake of Omega-3 by taking supplements.

Aside from monounsaturated fat, your brain also needs protein in order to function properly. Protein found in eggs, poultry, and fish increases serotonin in the brain. This chemical helps boost the feelings of the well-being of a person. In short, it acts like a “feel-good” chemical, just like endorphin. Endorphin, likewise, is a chemical released by the brain during physical activities like exercising. That makes regular physical exercise an excellent way to maintain the health of the brain as well. Each time you work a sweat by performing your favorite workout routine, you are actually promoting circulation of both blood and oxygen to the brain.

There is no question that your brain controls most of your bodily functions. By keeping it on top condition all the time, you can keep your overall health in check as well.

It’s true that every organ in the body has an important role to play, but besides the heart, the brain is one organ you would want to keep healthy all the time. It is through the brain that we learn, think, and remember things, and if we fail to maintain its health, we may end up with a high risk for degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.Emotional Causes of Nervous Breakdowns

Sometimes we may write it off as the person just not knowing how to deal with pressures and other stresses, but if someone in your family has had a nervous breakdown, or if you are worried about having one yourself, it might help to try to understand the emotions involved in the process.Is Video Game Addiction a Serious Mental Health Problem?

While alcoholism and drug addiction have long been recognized by the medical community, recognition of non-substance addictions has been slower in coming. In the DSM, the official manual psychiatrists use to diagnose mental disorders, the only non-substance addiction currently recognized is gambling addiction, while addictions to things like food, sex, and the internet are still not mentioned. But even though these addictions aren’t officially recognized, many psychiatrists do take them seriously.ANGER MANAGEMENT Techniques — Seven Ways to Tame Your Anger

Are you angry a lot? If you’re wondering whether you have an anger management problem, chances are good that you do. But you can get back in control. Read on to discover seven anger management techniques that will help you tame your anger quickly.Do Deep Conversations Make Us Happier?

But according to a recent study published in the journal of Psychological Science, this is a misconception. Yes, it can negatively affect the mood when we dwell on things like death and disaster, but there are plenty of other deep and meaningful topics to talk about–and we apparently should be talking about them.The Basics of Emotional Freedom Techniques

Practically everyone can benefit from at least some form of EFT treatment. There are no specific eligibility requirements, and anyone who enters an emotional freedom techniques clinic is welcomed with open arms.How to Deal with Panic Attacks

People who suffer recurrent panic attacks usually have a history with the disorder going back to childhood. In many cases, the attacks begin during high-stress situations at school or as a result of separation anxiety. As the child grows older, the attacks gradually begin to disassociate from real-world stimuli and to take on a pattern of their own.BATH OIL: CHANNEL YOUR WAY TO REJUVENATION

Every person want to look good, bath oil provides the full care for your body skin and keeps your skin healthy and the charming. You should be careful before purchasing bath oils. Here are the short thing about the bath oil how the bath oil should be selected.Symptoms of Anxiety Attack

Anxiety as an acute form of depression and frustration is the symptom of overstressing of the mind and breathing fire inside over trivial matters whether they are important or unimportant by the patient.Bipolar Disorder Self Injury

A bipolar self-injury syndrome is a catastrophic stage of the brain with involvement of depression at the same time that makes a patient suffers from manic disabilities.Bipolar Mental illnesses

A bipolar mental illnesses is the compilation of various other illnesses relating brain and its sophisticated functioning to act, decide, target, process the information comprehensively,

Summary

Nineteen years of diversified professional health services experience in Orthopedic Surgery, Executive Management, Consultancy, Business development and Health Care delivery.

Proven ability to drive business process innovation in health care and life sciences.

Accomplished sales professional experienced in Medical Device Sales and demonstrated performance in account growth and management, clinical staff training, customer service and needs analysis, presentation, negotiation, program development and implementation.

Competitive spirit, winning attitude, strong relationship builder, ability to set and implement short and long-term goals.Specialties

Orthopedic SurgeryJoint ReplacementSpine SalesSports MedicineNetwork DevelopmentContract NegotiationHealthcare ConsultingMedical/Surgical Sales










Brain Training For Complete Health

Habits are what guide many people through their day-to-day routines and brain training is something you can use to help you stay mentally focused and sharp. 

Your brain is a very complicated organ. There are key elements that anyone can do to help the brain remain in the best mental state possible.

When you are performing the same activities on a daily basis, your brain can become lazy. Each day you may feel as though you are on autopilot and you might even forget some of the things you did throughout the day. Your brain might need some stimuli to stay in the best shape possible and this is something that you can easily do each day at home.

When you are beginning a brain fitness regimen you might find that it can be hard to focus and keep your attention. This is a barrier that you will need to overcome in order to introduce your brain to new activities. Once you overcome this barrier you will be able to begin to start improving brain health and this can help you to begin to improve things like memory, and even motor control.

When you are looking for the right exercise it can be important to tie in things that are also familiar. This can help you to begin training your brain with things that are not familiar and also familiar. This is a key to focus and this can help you ease into the transition of learning new things.

You also need a commitment to the exercises that you perform. If you only complete your exercises occasionally, you would not see the results that you would if you do them on a regular basis.

Setting a time each week to focus and concentrate on improving brain function can be a key to learning.

As you begin to see the right changes occurring in your brain function, you can reward yourself for these new skills that you have improved upon. Positive reinforcement can keep you on the right path and help you to stay focused to do more in the future. Your daily life may be improved significantly and you will be able to remember much more then ever before.

Brain training can help many people with improvement in the way their brain functions. It is never too early too start!

Thomas Manner is a specialist in neuroscience and the brain training field in general.

Video: Brain Training

http://www.neuro-sculpting.com trains you how to use mental resistance found in concentration training to boost your progress! Plus a brain training exercise…

More Brain Training Articles

Eating For Health, What About Brain Food?

Nowadays, it is always our topmost concern to eat a balanced diet and healthy food that would supplement and completes our body. We always strive to take those that will make us physically strong, trim, and fit. That more often, we tend to neglect a[art of the body that needs nourishment, too. It is an important part of body that also needs the quality food that it deserves so that it may function well and to the fullest, too.  This is our brain. We should not only be concern about the food that we eat that eventually makes sour body healthy.

We also have to consider and give much thought on providing the food that will improve our brain function. These so-called “brain foods” will be maximizing our brain’s potentials so that we may be able to use it well. A diet that is heavy and healthy with, for instance, with the fatty acids of omega-3. These can keep and help the vessels of blood of our brain to clear of the unwanted blockages and eventually allow the nerve cells eventually to really function at its highest level

This is a good reminder for you to eat your fish at least two times a week since it is a major and important material of omega-3s, or you can also start taking a supplement.

And if it is important that we know the good food for the brain, it is also equally important to recognize and know the foods that can also diminish our brain power. For a start, some drugs and alcohol, of course, can really kill our brain’s cells directly, but other than these, there are also many that are alarmingly less obvious foods that attack our brain. Those foods that clogged the artery can eventually lead to the act of restricting the blood flow directly to the brain, and those foods called high-glycemic-index, on the other side, can cause those blood-sugar swings that can really make both our body and our mind sluggish and irritable.

The following foods are considered Good Brain Foods:

Collard greens Peas Avocados
Bananas   Chicken Potatoes
Beef, lean Eggs Romaine Lettuce
Brewer’s yeast   Flaxseed oil Salmon
Broccoli Legumes   Spinach
Brown rice   Milk   Tuna
Brussels sprouts Oatmeal Turkey
Cantaloupe Oranges Wheat Germ
Cheese   Peanut Butter Yogurt

On the other hand, the following are the Bad Ones:

Bad Brain Foods   Drinks with High sugar

Alcohol   Hydrogenated fats
Artificial food colorings   Junk Sugars
Artificial sweeteners Nicotine
Colas   Overeating
Corn syrup   White Bread
Frostings

Accordingly, it is said that the best food for our brain are the complex carbohydrates. Since the molecules here are taking a long time, it will take longer for our intestines to eventually break them down into some simple sugars that our body can utilize. Hence, they can provide a steady energy source instead of a surge that is usually preceded by a plunge.

Take note that how we prepare and how we eat our food can also affect the way that our brain and body uses them. For example, when you eat sugar-loaded food after eating a meal with legumes can actually slow the sugar absorption; therefore preventing the thing called “sugar blues.”

Info is that proteins can also influence brain performance since they give out amino acids, and it is a fact that neurotransmitters are taken out of them. There are neurotransmitters that carry the needed signals from one brain cell and bringing it to another. So, the better that you take care of these messengers the surer you are of a more efficient delivery of these goods.

Then, amino acids like tyrosine and tryptophan are forerunners of neurotransmitters; these are the substances that make up neurotransmitters. You have to know that tryptophan is really an important amino acid and that it must be taken from your diet. And that tyrosine is really not a vital amino acid especially since the body can make it once there is a need for it.

One final note for all of us. Eating the right food in really helps, but it is important and try not to forget that even more when you have it out. This is why we can also give credit to fiber as the unrecognized brain food hero. So, include also a diet that is healthy with fibers.

 

Hal Johnson has been writing articles for nearly 4 years. Come visit his latest website Lamp Globes which helps people find information on
Silk Lamp Shades and deals on all other types of lamps.


Novato, CA (PRWEB) November 19, 2013

Green Swan Inc., a champion of safer cell phone usage, today announced the official launch of The Cell Spacer, a device that puts distance between a mobile phone users head and headset to help consumers ensure compliance with FCC and industry standard regulations for safer cell phone use. The launch of The Cell Spacer comes amid increasing concern in Europe for consumer safety when using mobile devices.

“It is important that people understand that there are real risks associated with exposure to the radiation emitted by cell phones and similar gadgets,” says Olle Johansson, Ph.D. at Swedens Karolinska Institute in the Department of Neuroscience. “We know that exposure to this radiation may impact DNA, leading to possible cancer risks, and also affects male and female germ cells and fertility. Beyond government regulations, it is imperative that each person educates themself and employs safer methods when using their mobile devices. The complete lack of biologically-based exposure standards or hygienic safety levels by our health protection agencies, and the lack of preventive actions, can turn out to be a huge mistake. To not act today would be deemed ethically and morally completely corrupt in the future.”

The reclassification of cell phone radiation as a “carcinogenic hazard” in May of 2011 by the World Health Organizations International Agency on Research for Cancer (IARC) was a key turning point in the battle to shed light on the connection between exposure to cell phone radiation and adverse health effects. However, while the U.S. remains idle in spite of ever mounting studies, many European nations are pursuing precautions to reduce childhood exposure to cell phone radiation and help their citizens use their mobile devices more safely. Below are just some recent actions by leading European nations to better protect their citizens.

Top 10 Brain Health Foods

Certain foods with low fat and cholesterol such as blackberries and dark chocolates containing nutritions and vitamins bring a healthy life and help enhance brain power. According to the Alzheimer\’s Association, a brain-healthy diet can effectively treat Alzheimer\’s disease or dementia and reduce the risk of heart disease and diabetes, transfer blood flow to the brain. There are variety of natural foods, drinks, herbs and supplemental products containing brain & body improving properties, the following list includes the best brain health food for humans.

 

Apples are the wealthy source of quercetin, an antioxidant plant chemical preserving water to protect your brain cells. An apple each day helps prevent your brain from free radical attacks. Radical attack is so dangerous to your brain because it can damage the outer line of delicate neurons, even causing cognitive decline.

 

Apples

 

Blackberries supply with potent antioxidants best known as polyphenols enhancing communication between neurons, improving information process.

 

Blackberries

 

Caffeine and plentiful antioxidants being contained in coffee beans is the key to enhance brain power. According to a recent Finnish study of 1,400 long-time coffee drinkers, having three to five cups of coffee compared to fewer than two cups a day is much more effective in reducing the development of Alzheimer\’s disease by 65 percent.

 

Coffee

 

According to the 2009 Journal of Nutrition study, eating 28,35 gram of chocolate a day at least helps protect your brain against absentmindedness and memory loss. The polyphenols in cocoa beans contribute to enhancing blood flow to the brain.

 

Chocolate

 

A well-known research from the University of California at Santa Barbara shows that the two compounds proanthocyanidins and cinnamaldehyde in cinnamon are inactivate tau proteins killing brain cells.

 

Cinnamon

 

This kind of food contains nutrients helping prevent dementia such as folate, vitamin E, and vitamin K. You will obtain a third of the folate and five times a great deal of vitamin K in a half cup of boiled spinach. Combining spinach with a little olive oil for your diets creats healthy fats enhancing absorption of vitamins E and K.

 

Spinach

 

ADDLs (or amyloid B-derived diffusible ligands) are proteins enhancing Alzheimer\’s progress. According to a research carried out at the Monell Chemical Senses Center in Philadelphia, PA last year, extra of olive oil may be an enemy against ADDLs harming the brain.

 

Extract of olive oil

 

Salmon is either good for heart or for brain. Salmon is a leading source of DHA, omega-3 protecting against Alzheimer, an illness killing over five million Americans. The kind of fish also supplies with a plentiful source of vitamin D helping avoid cognitive decline.

 

Salmon

 


Turmeric and ginger are 2 main spices in curry powder. According to studies at the University of California Los Angeles Alzheimer\’s Disease Research Center, turmeric is rich in curcumin protecting against Alzheimer\’s progress. Besides, turmeric reduces cholesterol causing low blood flow to your brain.

 

Turmeric

 

A survey conducted by researchers at the University of Cincinnati College of Medicin shows that 12 older adults with memory decline having a daily drink of grape juice is so beneficial to heart and brain. Polyphenols in grape juice help enhance communication among brain cells.

 

Grape juice

 

 

Related links:

Herbs – Best for Emotional Health and Brain

Why Taking Fish Oil Supplements is one of The BestBrainHealth Strategies You Can Employ

Improve BrainHealth

I have been working as a doctor of a general hospital since February 1998. In addition, I am a full time writer and specialize in weight loss related issues. I also write for a number of different websites on the Internet.

Video: Brain Foods

Our brains are like any other muscles in our body — we need to use them or we lose them. In this episode on the tips channel Dr Goldman discusses how the br…


Los Angeles, CA (PRWEB) November 19, 2013

On November 29, 2013, Los Angeles residents will have a chance to visit the newly opened Pico Union Project and celebrate Thanksgivukkah.

As has been reported in the pages of The Wall Street Journal and on the popular website Buzzfeed, Thanksgivukkah is the name given to the extremely rare convergence of the Hebrew and Gregorian calendars resulting in the first day of Hanukkah falling on Thanksgiving Day for the first time ever. It will also be the last time for another 70,000 years.

Deborah Gitell, co-creator of the Thanksgivukkah Facebook page, has teamed with Craig Taubmans Pico Union Project to create the Thanksgivukkah Festival scheduled for Friday, November 29. 2013 from 11 a.m. 4 p.m. at the Pico Union Project. The event will give all members of the community a chance to celebrate and reflect upon the “Once-in-an-Eon Overlap” of Hanukkah and Thanksgiving through food, beverages, music, crafts, and stories. Thanksgivukkah Festival is the only Thanksgivukkah event endorsed by the creators of the “Thanksgivukkah” Facebook page.

Im so excited to bring Thanksgivukkah to Los Angeles, said Deborah Gitell. Im asking Jews and non-Jews alike to pass over Black Friday and celebrate the freedoms America provides to Jews and others. I thank the brilliant and creative Craig Taubman for hosting this once-in-an-eon festival.

The brain child of Deborah Gitell, this celebration is a sure bet to bring in the whole community, said Craig Taubman. We will provide great food, fun activities, and stellar performances.

A growing roster of participating groups and activities include:

Talent: The Moshav Band, Moose (the kid rock band), Keshet Chaim, Beit T’Shuvah, Ari Herstand, Moshav Band, Aqua Marina Mariachi, and Kosha Dillz.

Food Vendors: The Canter’s Deli Truck, The Kosher Palate, Mamas International Tamales, Bibi’s Bakery, The Bun Truck and Challah Connection.

Activities: Carnival Games, Moonbounces, Arts & Crafts, Tree Planting with Millions of Trees LA, and “Jamba Jews” Bike Blender.

Media Sponsor: Tablet Magazine

Thanksgivukkah Festival will incorporate Jewish and American values of religious freedom and social justice by designating 10% of the proceeds of the festival to Mazon, a Jewish Response to Hunger and to theatre programming for at risk kids at Pico Union Project.

In order to make the event affordable for all, Gitell and Taubman are raising funds via the Jewish crowdsourcing site, Jewcer, at http://www.Jewcer.com/Thanksgivukkah.

Tickets for Thanksgivukkah Festival are $ 5 general admission and $ 20 for a family of four. Tickets can be purchased in advance at http://www.thanksgivukkah.eventbrite.com. Tickets will also be available at the door.

Pico Union Project is located at 1153 Valencia Street in downtown Los Angeles. Dedicated parking is available.







The secret health benefits in 5 natural foods : Brain Foods

Article by Sarah Kirmani

Nutritious foods keep us healthy and prevent diseases. A well-balanced diet that includes these foods is critical to overall well being. Traditional medicine may be a temporary solution whereas a well-balanced healthy diet is more permanent. For example, diabetics can benefit greatly with a healthy well-balanced diet to resolve the source of the problem instead of temporary medical relief. In fact, many doctors propose a well-balanced meal in addition to their recommendations to ensure a holistic approach to recovery. Let’s look at a list of these super foods and see how they affect us.

Salmon

The omega-3 fatty acids in salmon provide heart benefits. Salmon is also low in saturated fat and cholesterol and is a good source of protein. Omega-3 also helps prevent blood clots which cause many strokes. People who eat salmon have better vision and better memory.

Blueberries

Blueberries help lower cholesterol and thus reduce stroke and heart disease. They also reduce the risk of urinary tract infection, and improve eye vision.

Beans

Beans regulate blood, sugar, help prevent heart disease and cancer and ward off hunger.

Oysters

These sea creatures are low fat and low cholesterol and high protein which helps regulate stress levels. Oysters contain high levels of calcium, iron, and vitamin A, which are essential for healthy bones, blood, and eyesight, respectively. Did we mention oysters are an aphrodisiac?

Nuts

Nuts reduce heart disease and lower cholesterol. Cashew nuts promote bone growth and strong teeth. Brazil nuts prevent breast cancer and walnuts have high levels of omega-3 acids that reduce body swelling and growth of plaque in arteries. Nuts are also brain foods and can make you smarter.

Want to learn more on how to live a life of health and happiness? Do you want to be live the life you’ve imagined by being your own nutritionist? Follow us at HealthCrowd.

Sarah works at HealthCrowd, a real-time personal health platform that makes managing your health and working with health practitioners transparent, fun and results-driven.










Brain Foods : Brain Food: How The Food We Buy May Be Impacting The Long Term Health Of Our Brains

When we do our grocery shopping we may not be thinking in terms of brain food, but what we buy does play a part in the health of our minds. We sometimes buy things in terms of the health of our hearts, but we may need to make a few changes if we want our minds to go the distance as we age.

Americans still seem to persist in buying high fat foods even though we are aware of the risks to our arteries and heart. However, just as in the case of heart healthy foods, food for the brain requires a reduction in the “bad fat” content of our diets. Clogged arteries not only impact the heart they hind the mind.

The brain is the largest user of oxygen of all the different organs so any change in blood flow to the brain quickly effects its ability to function. Reducing fats is important in keeping those arteries free. In fact, researchers have noted that reduced blood flow is a contributing factor in cognitive decline in older people. Protecting your blood supply to the brain is critical in keeping function longer as you age.

Brain food also needs to be high in vitamins and minerals. While this is good for the body in general, the brain in particular is susceptible to deficiencies in nutrients. Many of the chemicals in the brain, neurotransmitters, etc. depend on a steady supply of vitamins, minerals and amino acids.

Since these nutrients come largely through fruits and vegetables most people do not get all that they need. The typical american eats nowhere near the daily recommended amount of fruits and vegetables that they need. The flip side of this problem is that even if they did, our modern processing of foods as well as some of the way we farm them tends to strip away rather than help retain these nutrients.

Antioxidants are another item that is important for the brain. Again, finding food for the brain that provides the right levels of antioxidants is hard. It comes back to the lack of fruits and vegetables in our diet as well as the previously mentioned depletion of these nutrients in the foods themselves.

Antioxidants are foundational in helping to protect the mind from aging. Scientists are learning that the damage caused by free radicals is a big factor in some of the age related decline we see in older people. It also may play a role in the damage to brain cells that leads to Alzheimer’s and dementia. Antioxidants help neutralize free radicals before they can damage cells. Good food for the brain must include a healthy dose of antioxidants.

So what do we do to get good brain food since we know that most people don’t buy what they should and when they do it is still short on nutrients? What steps can we take to ensure the health of our brains as we age?

First, we still need to do our part to cut fats and increase the fruits and vegetables we eat. Regardless of whether or not they have decreased nutrient content, eating more of them is still better for us then not having them at all.

Second, finding good fruits and vegetables for brain food may require thinking outside the box a bit. Instead of buying from chain stores who get their produce from commercial farms that use the kind of heavy processing which strips nutrients, buy from smaller local farms or farmers markets. They may be a bit more expensive at times, but the quality could be substantially better.

Third, it may be necessary to add supplements to the diet that help fill in the gaps. There are many good combination supplements out there that provide a range of vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. This is a fairly easy and effective way to make up for some of the lack of nutrients we have in our food. Make sure you find a manufacturer that has a reputation for quality and uses safe, pure ingredients.

While we may not always do our best to eat appropriate brain food, we can take steps to improve the level of nutrients we get daily. Since medicine is helping people live longer, it is more important than ever that we do what we can to help our minds keep up. Nobody wants to live to be 90 only to have their minds degrade to a miserable level. We can do something about that by giving our brain what it needs. All it takes is a few changes to what we buy and eat as well as a little commitment to stick with those changes. The end result will be worth it.

J. Wall has an avid interest in natural remedies for the treatment of memory loss. He is a regular contributor to the Food for the Brain section of http://www.memory-enhancement-guide.com, a site dedicated to improving mental ability and cognitive function.

Article Source:
http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=J_Wall

Brain Health And Omega Three Fish Oil : Brain Foods

Article by Larry Jensen

So much has been said about Omega 3 Fatty Acids being good for the heart. And it is true – it is an essential supplement for heart health beyond a doubt. But – do you know what it doe’s for the brain or what it doe’s for the infant of an expectant mother? Read on to learn more about this most essential supplement.Your brain needs adequate levels of DHA to repair and rebuild cells. Fish harbor this particular fatty acid which is essential for brain health. That’s why you hear people refer to fish as Brain Food.

Here are some interesting facts about how this oil affects your brain and some of the benefits you reap from it:

Studies have shown that by increasing the amount of Omega 3 DHA you consume may improve your memory and general IQ Persons that are DHA deficient have been linked to depression, multiple sclerosis and attention deficit disorder. The brain is about 60 percent fat with DHA and other omega 3 fatty acids. These fatty acids are highly concentrated in the brain. These oils are important to brain memory, performance and behavior function. If expectant mothers are deficient in omega 3 fatty acids the infant can be at risk for developing nerve and vision problems. Expectant mothers are urged to consume moreDHA. Expectant mothers should talk to their doctors about this. Fatigue, memory problems, mood swings and depression are just a few symptoms of the fatty acid deficiency. Tests have shown that these oils can help the brain heal from injuries along with building protection. It has been shown that people who are participants in contact sports, military personnel, and victims of violence can be benefited by these oils.These are some pretty interesting facts about how our brain is affected. We know that omega 3 /DHA can do so much for our Heart Health and Brain functions. But… you can’t just run to the store and buy the bargain bottle of fish oil and expect to gain all of the benefits. You can’t take the neighbors word for what is the best supplement to take. You must know what you are looking for in a omega 3 supplement.

You want to make sure you get the best product possible. Not all supplements are the same. Some are good and some are bad. You want the BEST.

You want the purest contaminant free supplement you can find. You want to buy it from a company that has been in business for a while and built and good reputation.You want to be able to ask that company questions.

When we are affecting our heart and brain we need answersOnly then will you get the full benefit of this fantastic natural supplement.You will be happy you took the time to investigate.

Larry Jensen does studies and research on Natural Health products. Larry has spent countless hours researching the Omega 3 fish oil/DHA to find the best and purest available. He found Xtend-Life in New Zealand that has by far the Purest and finest Omega 3 Fish Oil Capsules available. Visit Larry’s website at http://omega-three-dosage-amount.com










The Dana Guide to Brain Health: A Practical Family Reference From Medical Experts. Book Review. : Brain Foods

Article by Alvaro Fernandez

Copyright (c) 2008 SharpBrains

Dana Press kindly sent us a couple of books. One of them, The Dana Guide to Brain Health: A Practical Family Reference From Medical Experts, is our topic today.

We are impressed by what Dana is doing to insert neuroscience findings and implications into the public discourse.

No big surprise then, to find out so much quality content inside a 700-page one-of-a-kind guide.

The guide is really 4 books inside a common binding. Priced at a reasonable level, and with superb in-depth text and images in all relevant areas, the book can be used as a 1) Brain 101 tutorial, 2) brief summary of the basics of Brain Care and Wellness, 3) description of the stages of brain development, 4) reference guide for around 70 brain-related conditions.

In my personal opinion, every neuroscience, medical and psychology student, clinician and researcher should have this book in their hands to keep abreast of many recent developments, and also be exposed to professional development courses based on it. Many families and individuals interested in the brain should consider buying it too.

Given the focus of our blog-brain fitness for healthy individuals-, we particularly enjoyed the sections

– on intelligence, with sentences such as “It is extremely unlikely that an “intelligence pill” will be discovered in the near future” (P. 215)

– on “The Brain-Body Loop” which explains, among other things, the effects of stress,

– “Taking Advantage of New Findings and New Finding About the Adult Brain”, with gems such as “Recent research on the brain has established two great principles. First, far from remaining static in adulthood, as we had long assumed, the human brain continues to grow and develop throughout our entire life span. This development takes place in two ways: by ongoing adjustments in signaling pathways and by the addition of new brain cells. Knowing this means that you should try, as you would with any fine, high-powered machine, to practice good maintenance to give it the best chance to provide peak performance…in many respects we can make a material difference in how it ages, and even induce it to perform better over time…Just as we may choose to strengthen our muscles with challenging workouts, we can encourage brain growth by keeping engaged in many different mental activities”.

– and, above all, the one on “Basic Brain Care: Protecting Your Mental Capital” (Pages 31-41), where we are all recommended to

—- Sleep: at least 6 hours a day, making sure we don’t make a habit of “cutting sleep short”

—- Eat well: the general rule here is that what is good for the body is also good for the brain, and to be wary of “diets advertised as “brain food”

—- “Protect the fortress” (our skull), by making sure we use security belts and helmets whenever there may be a risk

—- Exercise regularly

—- Keep Stress in Check (stress can inhibit or reduce the creation of new neurons, among other things)

—- Stimulate our minds through life, by ensuring a flow of novelty and variety that enhances the creation of a “cognitive reserve”. If is fascinating for us to see how Brain Fitness helps integrate “Brain Health” and “Lifelong Learning”, Health & Wellness and Education. Of course, these categories are human conventions that the brain itself probably doesn’t care too much about…

In short, a great reference book for professionals and for people interested in the brain. And a great starting point (the only one we are aware of) for a really useful and practical guide to Brain Health that every family should have. In a bit more creative terms: great quality marble looking for a consumer-oriented Michelangelo.

Alvaro Fernandez is the CEO and Co-Founder of SharpBrains.com, which covers the emerging neuroplasticity and neurogenesis fields. SharpBrains has been recognized by Scientific American Mind, Newsweek, Forbes. Alvaro holds MA in Education and MBA from Stanford University, and teaches The Science of Brain Health at UC-Berkeley Lifelong Learning Institute. You can learn more at http://www.sharpbrains.com/










www.todaybignews.com Boosting brainpower and performing at your best is as simple as snacking on the right nutrient-rich foods. Find out what they are! dietfitness.healthguru.com 2012 hollywood diet
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A Collection Of Recipes Celebrating Cozy Meals From Days Gone By
In These Days Of The Drive-thru And Prepackaged Ready-to-eat Food, It’s Hard To Imagine Our Young People Will Have The Same Memories. That’s A Shame. And That’s Why I’m Sharing This Collection Of Old Fashioned Meals That I Call “memory Lane Meals”.
A Collection Of Recipes Celebrating Cozy Meals From Days Gone By

How Does Omega 3 and Brain Health Work? : Brain Foods

Article by Terry Johnston

As we age we become more concerned than ever about our mental capabilities. It’s nice to know there is a direct correlation between omega 3 and brain health. Sufficient omega 3 has been shown to very much improve brain function and low levels of omega 3s means brain function is adversely effected

Here, we will view the important role omega 3s play in the development, function and health of the brain.

Brian Development

Omega 3, commonly known as essential fatty acids or n-3 fatty acids, are considered the building blocks of the human brain. For brain development–DHA is vital for babies and children.

The body needs these essential fatty acids to produce healthy brain cells. Children not receiving enough fatty acids in their diet, show hindered brain development.

Brain function

Omega 3 fatty acids are one of the most important structural components of the brain cell membrane development. DHA and EPA are essential for your brain to work properly. If it does not get the required amounts, it tries to use what is called ‘replacement’ fatty acids.

These replacement fatty acids are not as good as the n-3 fatty acids. Brain function is affected significantly.

Studies show that high levels of ‘replacement’ fatty acids can lead to depression, anxiety, and psychotic disorders.

People who consume fish oil, one of the richest sources of n-3 fatty acids, on a regular basis are found to have increased resistance to such disorders. Conclusion! N-3 fatty acids are essential for normal brain function.

Brain health

Omega 3s have considerable impact on neurotransmitters, biochemical messengers that make cell-to-cell communication within the brain possible.

A regular dose of these omega 3 strengthens this communication and improves cell function. This is the reason omega 3s are often touted as ‘brain food’.

The role of n-3 fatty acids in disease prevention

Studies show a diet rich in essential fatty acids can lower the risk of neuro-degenerative diseases considerably. They prevent learning disabilities, memory impairment, and developmental disorders in children and have also been shown to prevent clinical depression, anxiety, irritability, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s in children and adults.

The best source of n-3 fatty acids is Fish oil

Fish oil supplements are considered the best source of essential fatty acids. They contain the right amount of DHA and EPA required for your brain and are completely safe for you irrespective of your age.

The best results have been achieved when a fish oil supplement contains DHA and EPA in a 2:1 ratio. The DHA of greater significance than EPA.

The biggest mistake people make is not taking fish oil that has been purified by ‘molecular distillation’ — the most reliable technique known.

The link between brain health and omega 3s is very powerful. The best way to keep your brain healthy for a long time? A daily regime of fish oil.

Terry Johnston is head writer and lead researcher at “Natural Omega 3 Supplement”. His abiding interest in products that help people maintain their health comes from his own experience with health issues. For more information visit Terry’s Web Site ==> Natural Omega 3 Supplement TODAY!