
HEALTHY BRAIN SMOOTHIE
Smoothie to support a healthy brain
Healthy brain smoothie
150g frozen blueberries
1 tablespoon shelled hemp
6 chopped hazelnuts
1 tablespoon walnut oil
1 ½ teaspoons raw cacao powder
handful of spinach
Blend all together in a processor adding enough water to make it smooth & creamy!
Although your brain accounts for less than 2% of your total body weight an amazing 25% of the body's total metabolic activity takes place there and nutrition plays a vital role in preventing imbalances in the functioning of the brain
To look after your brain
Avoid sugar and do not use or eat anything that contains artificial sweeteners
Minimise animal foods (meat & dairy) and only eat organic
Cut out processed foods – pies, cakes, biscuits, 'fast foods'.
Cut out refined foods like white bread, rice & pasta
Minimise alcohol & caffeine
Foods that are good to eat for healthy brain function include:
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The right fats
Hemp seeds are a good source of omega 3. and provide omega 3 & 6 in the right balance. Another beneficial fat omega 9 is found in olive oil. Fish like wild Alaskan salmon, mackerel & sardines are a good source of the Omega-3 fats EPA & DHA which protect the brain and supports its development and functioning. If you do not eat fish you can buy an algae sourced omega 3 & 6 supplement.
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Glutathione rich foods
Glutathione is an amino acid that works as an anti-oxidant in the body and is particularly good at detoxifying environmental toxins. As we age glutathione levels in the body fall so include more in your diet. Good food sources include lentils, beans, nuts and seeds. Glutathione works in synergy with selenium found in seafood, shiitake mushrooms & eggs.
Bright coloured vegetables & berries
Eat plenty of bright coloured vegetables and berries which are high in anti-oxidants and eliminate free-radical damage that causes ageing and protects the brain from degeneration. Freeze summer and autumn berries so you have a good supply in the winter months.
Nuts and seeds
Packed with protein and essential fatty acids, nuts and seeds are also full of the amino acid arginine, which stimulates the pituitary gland at the base of the brain to release growth hormone, a substance that declines quickly after the age of 35; this is a real anti-aging boon to your brain!
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Cruciferous vegetables
Broccoli, cauliflower and Brussels sprouts are all rich in choline, an essential nutrient for memory and brain health. Choline is a precursor to the neurotransmitter acetylcholine, which contributes to healthy and efficient brain processes.