If you have landed on this blog, you have realised how important the function of your brain is and how essential it is to keep it healthy to boost productivity. Do you know, that the brain works round the clock even when you are asleep? You use not just 10% of it but cent per cent of it. It’s just 2% of your body weight but uses 20% of the energy. Have you ever noticed, that when you are stressed, you feel flushed or hungry? During a typical day, you use up almost 320 calories just to think.
Do you know why brain stroke happens?
Our brain can generate enough watts to power a lightbulb. The brain has a big job, so keeping it healthy and active is highly essential. After all, where there is a will, there is a way. To keep the brain power surging, we need to fuel it and Food is fuel. Food provides the right nutrition to drive the brain to think, and act.
Sum Ultimate has the best neurologists in Bhubaneswar, treating numerous patients with neurological disorders every day. According to their experience and insight, patients benefit from dietary changes that improve their cognitive abilities and overall brain health.
Have you ever noticed some food elevates your mood, helps fight depression and keeps anger in check? Who controls sleep, appetite or the sensation in the body? It’s the work of a neurotransmitter called Serotonin which is mainly produced in the gastrointestinal tract. The reason to point this out is Serotonin is produced along with neurons and the brain consists of 86 billion neurons. The elements that aid are:
- Omega-3 Fatty Acids: Best referred to as brain candy found in salmon, walnuts, eggs, avocado and flaxseeds which help reduce inflammation and enhance memory. But, hey don’t consider the trans fat in cakes and biscuits as a loophole.
- Antioxidants: These are superheroes that fight cognitive decline and are found in fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, strawberries, and spinach.
- Complex Carbohydrates: These are the energisers, they release energy steadily maintaining stable brain functioning. They are found in whole grains like brown rice, oats, ragi and quinoa.
- Lean Proteins: Our messengers, found in lean meats, poultry, tofu, and legumes provide amino acids necessary for the production of neurotransmitters.
- Vitamins and Minerals: These are our besties & buddies, Vitamins B, C, D, and E, as well as minerals like zinc and magnesium found in various foods, including leafy greens, citrus fruits, nuts, and seeds keep us going.
Intake of the Brain’s Elixir is extremely essential. Water is the elixir of life, and your brain needs it. Even mild dehydration can impair cognitive function, leading to decreased focus and alertness. So, make it a habit to stay well-hydrated throughout the day.
The Mediterranean Diet: A Blueprint for Brain Health
It is the most popular diet for brain health. Sum Ultimate Neurologists have witnessed that people who adopt this dietary practice have lesser chances of death from stroke or heart attacks. The basics include:
- Daily consumption of fruit, veggies, whole grains and healthy fats
- Weekly consumption of egg, poultry, cheese and curd
- Moderate consumption of dairy products
- Limited consumption of red meat
- Avoid consumption of refined oils, alcohol, sweetened and processed products.
- Don’t smoke.
It’s as simple as that. In addition, some standout brain-boosting superfoods deserve special attention:
- Turmeric: Born and brought up in India, you definitely know how significant turmeric is for overall health. It aids inflammations and improves memory and cognitive function. Incorporate turmeric into your cooking.
- Dark Chocolate: Yes, you read that right! Dark chocolate, with a high cocoa content, is rich in flavonoids that can enhance brain function and improve mood. Just remember, moderation is key.
- Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, chia seeds, and pumpkin seeds are packed with brain-boosting nutrients like omega-3s, antioxidants, and vitamin E.
- Avocado: This creamy fruit is a fantastic source of healthy fats and vitamin K, which can support cognitive function and memory.
If it’s the apple that keeps the doctor away, then it’s the balanced diet that keeps the top neurologists of Odisha at bay.
While a brain-boosting diet can work wonders for your cognitive health, it’s crucial to remember that individual needs may vary, and moderation is essential. Also, make it a habit of annual checkups for personalised guidance and expert advice from the best neurologist in Bhubaneswar at Sum Ultimate. Please avoid treating yourself as you see fit. It’s always best to reach out to experts.
If you suspect your near and dear one, a senior perhaps, has signs of a neurological disorder, reach out to the best neurology hospital in Bhubaneswar for comprehensive care. Sum Ultimate is a multi speciality hospital in odisha offering state-of-the-art facilities, a multidisciplinary approach to neurology care, and access to cutting-edge research and clinical trials.
It ranks at the top of neuro care hospitals in Odisha, treating neurological conditions including brain tumours, spinal cord injury, epilepsy, stroke, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, etc., along with rehabilitation programmes. Led by dedicated neurologists, facilitated with cutting-edge techs and treatment approaches, Sum Ultimate provides 24*7 patient-centric cardiac care.
Last but not least, a balanced diet is only one piece of the puzzle to brain health. Lifestyle factors such as regular physical & mental exercise, adequate sleep and social interactions are also essential to keep your brain healthy.