The brain, with all of its neurons and receptors and critical cells controls how we feel and how we engage in our lives in every single moment. So it is vital that we take care of our bran cells and feed them the right foods to function optimally. Sadly today, no pun intended, over 45 % of Americans are depressed and 35 % of them are using some type of drug to help with the relief of symptoms. What if you could eat your way out of depression, and I do not mean gorging on food, but what if you chose your foods wisely could you feel better, more energized and prevent depression?
Eating right to support your brain health is possible. Not only that, it is critical for every cell in your body but especially when it comes to feeling balanced, stabilizing your mood and your overall energy. So what are some of the key brain nutrients that you need to know about? read on….
Phenylalanine; source= almonds, soybeans, trout, tuna (although I do not encourage this for environmental reasons and safety-ie, mercury levels), cottage cheese, wheat germ, eggs
Tryptophan: source= beans lentils, chick peas, kidney beans, oats, nuts and seeds oil rich fish, eggs. turkey, bananas
Essential fatty acids: source= flax seeds, hemp seeds, cold water fish, walnuts, seaweeds, sardines, anchovies
Folic Acid: source= green leafy vegetables, fortified breads and cereals
Vitamin B12; source= salmon, cod, yeast, nutritional yeast, dairy
Zinc; source= meat, oysters, eggs, oatmeal, pumpkin seeds, corn
Vitamin B6; source= brewer’s yeast spinach, potatoes, lentils, banana
Selenium; source= brazil nuts, eggs, garlic
Avoid any foods tat you may be sensitive to like dairy or wheat or sugar. Avoid too many stimulants like caffeine, alcohol and excess sugar. Try and get a good night’s sleep regularly. And of course, feeling good may also require a little effort and activity like exercising, stretching, quiet time or meditation, smiling, laughing, hanging out with friends, and for some of us, just a pat on the back, because at the end of the day, most of us are doing our best!
Happy New Year!
drinthekitchen
