Discover the Impact of Premium Fuel on Brain Function and Mood, as Explained by Dr Jyoti Bala Sharma
Your brain, constantly working and functioning, requires a continuous supply of fuel to support its intricate processes. Just like an expensive car, your brain functions at its best when it receives premium fuel. According to Dr Jyoti Bala Sharma, Director and HOD of Neurology at Fortis Hospital Noida, high-quality foods containing essential vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants nourish the brain and protect it from oxidative stress caused by the body’s utilization of oxygen.
The Impact of Low-Quality Fuel on the Brain
Unfortunately, just as an expensive car suffers damage from low-quality fuel, the brain can also be adversely affected by ingesting anything other than premium fuel. When substances from “low-premium” fuel, such as processed or refined foods, reach the brain, it has limited ability to eliminate them. Diets high in refined sugars, for example, not only disrupt the body’s insulin regulation but also contribute to inflammation and oxidative stress. Numerous studies have even linked a high-sugar diet to impaired brain function and exacerbated symptoms of mood disorders like depression.
Foods That Support Brain Health
Wholegrains: Enhancing Concentration and Focus To maintain optimal brain function, it is vital to provide it with a steady supply of energy. Whole grains with a low glycemic index release glucose slowly into the bloodstream, ensuring a constant and steady source of energy to keep you mentally alert throughout the day. Opt for wholegrain cereals, finger millet, pearl millet, or oats to improve concentration and combat brain fog and irritability.
Oily Fish: Promoting Healthy Brain Function Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are crucial for brain health, as they cannot be synthesized by the body and must be obtained through food. Oily fish, such as salmon, mackerel, and sardines, are rich in omega-3 fats (EPA and DHA), which are essential for brain function, heart health, joint maintenance, and overall well-being. Plant-based sources of omega-3s include flaxseeds, walnuts, and their oils. Adequate omega-3 intake may help manage stress, boost mood, and potentially relieve symptoms of depression.
The Brain-Boosting Power of Blueberries, Tomatoes, Eggs, and More
Blueberries: Enhancing Memory and Delaying Memory Loss Blueberries and other dark red and purple fruits, like blackberries, contain protective compounds called anthocyanins. Regular consumption of these fruits may improve or delay short-term memory loss, promoting brain health and cognition.
Tomatoes: Preventing Free Radical Damage Tomatoes, rich in the antioxidant lycopene, have been shown to protect against free radical damage that can contribute to the development of dementia, including Alzheimer’s disease. Other sources of lycopene include papaya, watermelon, and pink grapefruit.
Eggs: Delaying Brain Shrinkage and Supporting Memory Eggs are a valuable source of B vitamins, including B6, B12, and folic acid. These vitamins help reduce levels of homocysteine, which is associated with an increased risk of stroke, cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease. Additionally, eggs contain choline, essential for the production of the memory-boosting brain chemical, acetylcholine.
