The Best Foods For Brain and Nervous System: Dr Varun Aggarwal

Nervous system is the command centre of our body. It manages complex functions like memory, cognition, and movement. Additionally, it is crucial for bodily functions like breathing, blinking, and blushing that occur automatically. Every part of your health, including your thoughts, learning, memory, and emotions, is impacted by your nervous system.

We are all aware of the importance of a good diet for both our mental and physical health. However, sometimes our bodies require specific nutrients to function properly.

The nervous system needs nutrients like vitamin B, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B12 to be strong and healthy and ensure that it can carry out its functions as intended.

There are several super-foods that you can add in your diet throughout the day to make sure that your nervous system grows healthier and remains strong. So, today, we will see the top foods that are good for the brain and nervous system. Let’s begin!

Green leafy vegetables

Vitamin B complex, vitamin E, vitamin C, and magnesium are all abundant in green leafy vegetables. These nutritions are crucial for the healthy operation of our nervous system. Vitamin B plays a crucial role in synthesising and circulating neurotransmitters, which control respiration, heart rate, and digestion. Magnesium helps in nerve relaxation. Vitamin E and C have anti-ageing properties that benefit the nervous system.

Fish

Myelin sheaths, which contain a very high quantity of fatty acid, protect the nerves. As a result, persons who are low in fatty acids may experience nerve damage. Fish contains Omega 3 fatty acids, it helps in the recovery of the neurological system and nerves.

Dark chocolate

Not all chocolate is produced in the same way. In fact, 70% of the chocolates on the market are heavily processed and hardly offer any advantages. I recommend dark chocolates for the healthy nervous system. Flavonols, which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, are abundant in dark chocolate. These properties contribute to lowering blood pressure and enhancing blood flow to the heart and brain. Choose a minimally processed dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa. You’ll be sure to reap its benefits for the nervous system.

Broccoli

Vitamin K, which is abundant in broccoli and is believed to enhance mental capacity and cognitive abilities. According to some studies, broccoli helps keep our brains strong and memories fresh because it contains glucosinolates, a compound that can inhibit the breakdown of the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which the central nervous system needs to function effectively. 

Eggs

Choline and vitamin B are abundant in eggs. When you consume Eggs, the brain uses its choline to make acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that is vital for memory and brain cell communication.

According to a study conducted by Boston University, regular egg consumption improves brain performance on various memory tests.

Almonds

Almonds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the brain. It also has vitamin E, which protects the brain.

Pumpkin Seeds

Zinc, a mineral that is vital for memory and general brain function, is abundant in pumpkin seeds. The pumpkin seeds are also a good source of vitamin b, tryptophan, stress-busting magnesium, and the precursor to the feel-good chemical serotonin.

Beetroot

Beetroot is also one of the best foods for our nervous system. Beets’ naturally high levels of nitrates increase blood flow to the brain and improve mental function, while cancer-preventive antioxidants help in the blood’s toxin-cleansing process. Beet consumption on a regular basis may act as a potential defence against age-related brain disorders.

Walnuts

Nuts are incredibly beneficial for your brain because they are rich in vitamins, minerals, and monounsaturated fats, especially when it comes to avoiding memory loss and cognitive decline. 

The polyphenols in walnuts are a special type of antioxidants that work together with omega-3 fatty acids to boost brain power and performance.

Whole Grains

Glucose, the main source of energy for the brain, is found in carbohydrates like whole grains. Whole grains help keep you alert for several hours since the body breaks down their carbs very slowly. On the other hand, processed grains cause your energy levels to surge and then drop, leaving your brain tired and weak.

Turmeric

Turmeric’s powerful antioxidant curcumin is what makes it so beneficial for our brain. Curcumin crosses the blood-brain barrier easily and increases oxygen consumption in your brain, keeping you alert and able to process information.

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