"The mind grows by what it feeds on," J.G.Holland. It can also be said that the mind grows on the foods it is fed. The brain must be exercised and challenged that it may continue to work as well for someone in his 80s as it did in his 20s. To stave off dementia and Alzheimer's, eat delicious brain foods every week.
- Fatty fish such as salmon and walnuts contain fatty acids that improve memory.
- Whole grain cereals contain folic acid which improves memory.
- Blueberries contain anthocyanins which help reverse some age-related memory loss.
- Apricots, strawberries and cherries help keep the brain clear and focused for learning.
- Chewing gum increases blood flow to the brain, keeping the mind focused and able to recall facts more quickly.
- Coffee and green tea improve cognitive function.
- Red wine contains resveratrol which slows age-related memory loss.
All things in moderation. Drink no more than two cups of coffee every morning and one glass of wine at dinner. Green tea can be consumed several times a day, unless a person has hyperglycemia. Caffeine lowers blood sugar.
Eat berries raw whenever possible. The plus for people living in North Georgia is the climate that is perfect for growing wine grapes, blueberries, strawberries, apricots, cherries and walnuts. If these aren't already growing on your property, plan to plant them this spring. The wild varieties are just as beneficial as the cultivated varieties.
These amazing foods provide many other health benefits besides brain health. Add berries to morning cereal. Add walnuts to garden or fruit salads. Enjoy wine with dinner or before going to sleep.
"We must always have old memories and young hopes," Arsene Houssaye.
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