Intelligent diet – the one which will make you smarter

Almost everyone is following one diet or the other, keto diet and the intermittent fasting has become a rage. The ones who are not following any diet often suffer from a disorder called ‘FOMO’ (fear of missing out). Chill millennials, here I present a diet which will not only add to the swag but also add some smartness along the way.

Brain is arguably the most important organ in the human body. Rightly placed at the top, for being the boss. It controls and coordinates actions and reactions, allows us to think and feel and makes us human by the innumerable emotions and memories.

Only when I started to believe that just like bones, the brain also stops growing after a certain age. Research done by Johns Hopkins university suggests that brain training methods and super food can help to improve working memory.

Have you ever wondered which place has the smartest people? Answer is, without any surprise, “Japan”. They not only top the list of smartest people, but also their population has the maximum life span. The secret lies in the disciplined lifestyle and the wonderful diet, which is rich in omega- 3 fatty acids present in fish and seafood.

Ayurveda – the science which is effective today as much as it was in the golden old days because of its strong foundation, has described a group of herbal plants which specifically improve memory and intellect, subsides mood disorders and anxiety. Researchers have shown their efficacy in fighting age related disorders like Alzheimer’s disease.

Author of the bestseller book “The bulletproof diet “states that
“If you eat foods to fuel your brain, you will become sharper over time.”

The food items which will ignite the creativity you always thought you have, repairs the damaged cells and in turn enhance memory and cognitive skills is as follows but remember –

“Words may inspire, only actions will create a change”.

1. Nuts –
   Almonds

Almonds are the staple when we wish to take our IQ to the next level. They contain proteins which are essential for energy function and help repair brain cells. Soak 5 almonds daily in the night and have them with your breakfast.

Walnut –

Even their shape is a reminder of the super power it holds to enhance our neurological functions.

Flaxseed –

They are rich in omega- 3 fatty acids which are essential for the healthy functioning of our brain.

2.Avocado–

Small wonder it is considered as ‘super fruit’. They are loaded with monosaturated fats, avocados help in increasing the blood flow, which is beneficial for the brain. They’re also full of folate, vitamins B, C, and E, and potassium.

3.Carrots and beetroot –

They improve the blood circulation to the brain. Also improves cognitive function and reduces dementia.

4.Green leafy vegetables –

In addition to countless positive effects green vegetables hold on our skin, hair and almost all the organs, they help in improving brain activity too.

5.Indian gooseberry (Amla)-

It is the richest source of vitamin C. Amla helps in the production of norepinephrine, a neurotransmitter which improves brain function. The iron content of the fruit facilitates oxygen transportation, and prevents brain degeneration.

6.Black pepper andturmeric –

They are rich in antioxidants, and are good for our brain.

7.Broccoli and spinach –

They are an excellent source of nutrients like vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene. Research suggests these plant-based foods may help slow cognitive decline.

8.Blueberry –

Blue berries are considered pivotal to improve intelligence. The oxidants present in blueberries stimulate the areas of the brain which are essential for strengthening mindfulness.

9.Water –

80% of the brain is water. Just like all bodily functions, the brain also needs water to regulate its activities.

10.Vit E –

it has potent antioxidant properties; fat-soluble nature of its molecules allows it to cross the blood- brain barrier and hence reduces oxidative stress on the brain.

11.Proteins –

one must try to add healthy proteins. Proteins have amino acids and our body needs amino acids to build neuro-transmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Yolk of the egg is rich in choline which is essential for brain activities.

12.Limit refinedsugars–

food items high in sugar and refined carbohydrates like junk food and soda dulls our brain. Processed food makes us foggy and sluggish. According to research at Bristol university, eating chips, chocolates and cakes may be damaging to a child’s intelligence.

13.Vit D–

getting too little sunlight is not healthy for our brain. Higher levels of vit D allow us to perform better and even slow down ageing of our brain.

14.Fats –

fats are an essential component of our diet. Neurons are a type of brain cell which prefers energy from fat.

These food items will not only improve your mental health but improve our overall health as well. We must include these 4 things for the all-round effect.

• Exercise – it improves our brain health and cognition, and also has a positive effect on our memory.
• Meditation – we must make time to meditate for 10-15 min daily. It can help to extend cognitive longevity and allow you to reduce overall stress level too.
• Sleep – sleep is required to consolidate memory and learning. If you don’t get enough sleep, grey matter in the frontal lobe decreases.
• Train your brain – playing crosswords, solving puzzles have proven effects in sharpening our memory and reducing stress.

Let us all include these healthy habits in our routine not for a week or a month, but for our entire lifespan.

“Every human is the author of his own health or disease”.