It’s no secret that a healthy diet has many benefits, and your food choices play a role in everything from losing weight to preventing diseases. But did you know that your diet can even affect your mental health? A recent London-based study found that eating diets rich in greens, whole grains, and other natural foods could reduce future cognitive impairment by up to 35%, proving that watching what you eat is good for your brain too!
Here are some of the best foods for a healthy mind:
Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach, lettuce, and kale are full chock-full of healthy nutrients. Studies show that spinach, in particular, can help prevent dementia, especially in women. This helps to keep your brain young and agile as you age.
Whole grains
Whole grains such as oats, brown rice, and whole wheat are healthy alternatives to processed white flour. Eating whole grains will help keep insulin levels regulated and your body properly fueled.
Nuts
Nuts can be a great go-to snack with added health benefits. Almonds and walnuts, in particular, are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which is a healthy fat that may help fight inflammation in the brain.
Berries
Full of nutrients and generally lower in sugar, berries are the perfect guilt-free sweet! When it comes to mental health, studies show that eating blueberries can minimize stroke-related brain damage, improve memory, and potentially reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Apples
Everyone has heard the saying “an apple a day, keeps the doctor away”. This is actually quite true. The flavonoid in apples have been known to reduce the risk of cancer, prevent heart attack, suppress asthma, and help heal acid reflux.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is a powerful antioxidant. It contains flavonoids that have been proven to have antihistamine, antimicrobial, memory- and mood-enhancing properties. Cocoa powder is one of the richest sources for flavonoids. This is a great excuse to have a cup of hot chocolate!
Red Wine
Red wine is also another great source of flavonoids. Red wine helps to reduce the risk of heart disease. It has also been linked to reducing the risk of cancer, fighting inflammation, and preventing strokes. If you do not drink wine, you can get these health benefits from drinking grape juice instead!
Coffee or Tea
Most people start their day with one of these beverages, so it helps that they are beneficial to your health. Coffee has been shown to improve memory and reduce your risk of dementia. Black and green tea contain powerful antioxidants that help boost brain function, decrease anxiety, burn fat, and improve physical performance.
Making the right diet choices is a great first step for a healthy lifestyle. When it comes to medical equipment you may need, BEK Home Medical Equipment can help with our full selection of supplies and equipment, including compression stockings, incontinence supplies, and mobility products. Visit us in person at our Dallas and El Paso locations, or check out our online store today!
