Anti-ageing fodder for your brain health
It is a known fact that as we age, we gradually lose some of our brain cells which eventually leads to senility. Fortunately, we now have the answer to at least partially avoid the loss of cognitive processes.
The brain is made up of 60% fat. Therefore, the brain cells are metabolically active and produce the highest number of free radicals. A strong immune system produces sufficient antioxidants to keep these free radicals in check. With poor eating habits, toxic liver, physical and emotional stress and pollution, too many free radicals are generated, which speeds up the ageing of neurons (brain cells).
Food has a profound effect on the brain. The antioxidants in food such as lycopene found in tomatoes and watermelon help protect the brain. Here are a few food items that help.
Vitamin E helps to protect the brain against oxidative stress. Consuming cloves of garlic daily also protects the neurons from damage and helps stimulate the growth of brain cells.
Vitamin C has the same ■ effect on glutathione levels and helps prevent free radical damage to the brain cells. A dose of 500mg daily provides sufficient protection.
Korean ginseng helps you ■ deal with mental stress better and prevents damage to brain cells. It helps keep the brain alert and strengthens the immune system, while normalising all bodily functions. Vitamin B12 is also known as ■ ‘brain food’. As we grow older, the body is unable to absorb sufficient B12 from food. This leads to neurological disturbances like loss of balance, muscle weakness, poor vision.
Taking B12 supplements can reverse this problem to some extent. B12 is found in dairy products, red meat, eggs, and fish. Therefore, vegetarians have a special need to take vitamin B12 supplements to protect the brain from aging. Ginko biloba is a herbal ■ supplement known to improve alertness as it improve circulation to the brain tissue. Recommended dose is about 40mg once or twice a day, for those who are over 50 years of age. Taking antioxidants from ■ natural food sources or in supplement form, early in life, may help you prevent memory loss later in life. But you must also practise correct eating habits and keep other lifestyle factors in control.
THE ANTIOXIDANTS IN TOMATOES AND WATERMELON HELP PROTECT THE BRAIN