An abundance of research demonstrates the connection between
the food we eat and how our brain functions.
“From simple irritants like forgetting where you put your
glasses or keys, to forgetting names and faces, brain impairment with aging is,
most of all, a product of lifestyle, environment, and nutrition. ‘The brain cells are our largest and most
energy demanding and most fragile cells,’ Dr. Kidd says.” (Gary Null, Ph.D.,
The Food Mood Connection pg.15)
“Changing your diet, nutrient levels, circadian rhythms or
sleep patterns, the substances you use, the amount of exercise or playtime you
have, getting rid of toxins in your system, balancing hormones, correcting
imbalances in your digestive track, boosting your cells’ ability to produce
energy and fixing food sensitivities or allergies can all radically transform
your mood and brain function.” (Mark Hyman, M.D., The Ultra Mind Solution, pg.
19)
“Neurotransmitters are the messenger molecules produced by
nerve cells to communicate and control almost every function of your body. This is the way your brain ‘talks.’ ” (Mark
Hyman, M.D., The Ultra Mind Solution, pg.97). There are four key neurotransmitters that
play a significant role in making this body, brain, food, and mood connection.
The Ultra Mind
Solution by, Mark Hyman, M.D. pg. 100
· Dopamine
and Catecholamine (epinephrine and norepinephrine): Getting Focused
· Serotonin:
Staying Happy
· GABA: Getting Relaxed
· Acetylcholine: Learning and remembering
When I simplify this information for my clients, I explain
it like this: “Our body has neurotransmitters that send messages throughout our
body. What we put into our body affects
these transmitters especially the ones sending signals to our brain. This is why it is vital to eat quality whole
foods.”
Nutrition, exercise, and sleep are three ways to keep the
body and brain in balance. The most important thing to remember is to eat high
quality (organic, GMO free, sustainable), whole foods as often as you can. I often write and talk about the importance of
gradual changes to diet and exercise programs, and I believe in the concept of “adding
in”; however, when it comes to seeing results in brain function, I do believe
in more of a “gangbusters” approach.
Refined sugars, especially corn syrup, should be eliminated, along with
hydrogenated oil and food dyes. For some
people, eliminating gluten can also have significant positive impact on brain
function.
Furthermore, omega – 3 fatty acids are an essential nutrient
in repairing and maintaining brain function.
Some foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are: hemp seeds, walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds,
salmon (I recommend wild caught), sardines, grass-fed beef, eggs (must eat the
yolks for the full benefit), soybeans, and tofu.
Brain-Boosting Snack:
A Classic with Chia Seeds
·
1 heaping tablespoon of natural peanut or almond
butter
·
1 teaspoon of chia seeds
·
Mix together and spread on a sliced apple
For more information and ideas on how to fuel your brain and soul contact me, kimgilroy@gmail.com.
Love deeply and eat mindfully,
Kim Gilroy - kimgilroyinsideout.com
