What does your brain-healthy diet look like?
A brain-healthy diet is not about one super-food; it’s about food groups — and it doesn't have to be expensive or elitist. You just have to be able to enjoy it so that you can sustain it.SCIENCE SAYS:
What is good for your heart is also good for your brain: A well-rounded diet protects your whole body and reduces risk factors associated with cognitive decline. Whole foods rich in nutrients, omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants help strengthen blood vessels and functions throughout the body.WAYS TO BEGIN:
- Start by focusing on eating foods you already love — identify common ground as your starting point; what are the brain-healthy foods you already enjoy?
- Cut back on foods that do not promote brain health — avoid foods that have been shown to have a negative impact (i.e., sugar and saturated fats and alcohol).
- Look for nutritional gaps — challenge yourself to expand the brain-healthy foods you enjoy by seeking out a variety of whole foods, like leafy greens, berries, nuts and healthy fats.
- Hydrate and limit processed foods — focus on drinking enough water and eating healthy snacks when you are hungry (vending machines are often too limited to provide brain-healthy snacks).
