The brain consists of about 60-70% fat, so a significant portion of the fat you consume ends up as components of the synapse and cell membranes in your brain. If your diet consists of too much transfats or saturated fats you may find your brain functioning at a much slower pace. Think of this as a "stiffening" of the brain because all of the cell membranes in the brain are becoming less fluid, which over time causes them to receive and carry-out messages much slower.
As a person with a family member who has Alzheimer's I have been very concerned about my own brain health. As we age the first thing we may notice is a bit of forgetfulness ("brain fog"). This can be caused by increased oxidative stress that causes free radical damage and neuro-degeneration to the brain. According to The Journal of Geriatrics in 1997 "it is possible that disturbances in memory function can be linked to increased oxidative stress with age".
As we get older the hippocampus (the area of the brain responsible for processing and storing new information) starts to shrink. Let's face it in today's fast paced world there are many more distractions to think about from cell phones, Facebook and e-mails. Added to distractions and free radicals is the fact that many of us are eating less of the needed nutrients our brains need because of genetically modified or nutrient poor processed foods.Fortunately the adult brain continues to grow and develop throughout its life. By keeping it strong with proper sleep, hydration, physical exercise and mental exercises with puzzles, reading or playing games we can create new pathways increasing the brains power.
With herbs you can help get to the under-lying cause as well and provide the brain with its needed nutrients. The Indian spice Turmeric is anti-inflammatory and antioxidant herb to the brain. It has the ability to stimulate the immune system to protect the brain from building up amyloid beta-plaque, or senile plaque, these deposits of proteins can cause inflammation, oxidation to the neuronal cells of the brain interfering with memory and judgement. The Ayurvedic herb Bacopa binds to brain cell receptors neutralizing free radicals in the brain enhancing brain oxygen helping you to remember new information, associative learning and logical memory. Its neuro-protective actions make it good for people who have memory problems due to injury or nervous exhaustion. In over 400 studies Ginkgo has been found,if started early enough toenhance short term memory, attention span, cognitive functions and neurological processes. It research found it to be a strong free radical scavenger to the brain and an herb that enhances circulation to the brain reducing vascular deficiencies. When the blood vessels in the brain become clogged with plaque it can cause stroke and the deterioration of cognitive functions. Sage's antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties aid it in its ability to boost the chemical levels to the brain that it needs to transmit messages and enhance memory.Ginseng helps enhance cognitive functions by supporting the adrenal glands when we are under stress. The brains regulating system does not have the ability to protect itself from the internal stresses of the body. When we go through stress, emotional, environmental or perceived the brain will deplete its stores of essential nutrients. This stress causes elevated levels of cortisol, which over-time leads to a deterioration of brain cells affecting moods, sleep and memory. And if you think taking a medication for stress will help be aware that over time many of these drugs can do just as much damage to the brain.Rosemary the "Herb of Remembrance" can help you to stay alert and focused. I like to put a little of its essential oil on my collar when I am doing research or studying and again when I want to recall what I have learned. These are just a few herbs Peppermint, Lemon Balm, Gota Kola and Holy Basil may also be of help depending on the persons needs.
Brain boosting nutrients include the essential fatty acid Omega 3 gotten from fish oil and flax seed oil. It helps to preserve cognitive abilities keeping your brain preforming at top performance levels. One or more servings of fish per week helps reduce the risk of Alzheimer's by keeping your brain fluid. It is anti-inflammatory and improves neurotransmitter responses. DHA a component of fish oil provides the building blocks needed to take care of neuronal brain tissue and to help reduce brain inflammation. CoQ10 is a highly mobile electron carrier found in the mitochondria of every cell. It acts as an enzyme needed for energy in the brain. Antioxidants in the form of Vitamin A, C, E, carotenoids, lutein, CoQ10 and alpha-lipoic acid help preserve the structure and function of the brain. By crossing the blood-brain barrier they can counteract the oxidative damage to neuronal tissue. Alpha-lipoic-acid is a powerful antioxidant that helps to support healthy memory, improves mental focus and neutralizes potential toxic substances to brain cells.
When your diet is rich in quality fruits and vegetables along with lean proteins, healthy fats, grains, beans and legumes you lower your risk of age related dementia. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with antioxidants that are protective to the brains functions. Berries are rich in polyphenols, eating one or more servings of strawberries or blueberries per week have been shown to be effective in improving age-related dementia. It is to eat the most organic foods as possible. These foods are higher in nutrients than their genetically modified counter-parts.
Your brain is not a self-sufficient organ. It is important that you remove the buildup of plaque and excito-toxins and supply it with quality nutrients from foods, herbs or supplements. This along with proper sleep, hydration and exercise both physical and mental your brain will be working strong for quite a while.