Aging - The Brain and Diet

Beginning in our sixties and seventies, there will be changes in our brains. These changes are a result of many things but they are particularly affected by our diets. When we were children, we had it drummed into our heads to ‘eat our fruit and vegetables’. It wasn’t only true then but continues to be important as we get older.

Our brains, like anything else, will become ‘rusty’ if we do not maintain it. One way to avoid the ‘rusty’ effect is to include a lot of antioxidant foods in our diet. Many of the antioxidant foods include those that are colorful such as: broccoli, spinach, brussel sprouts, beets, red peppers, carrots and yams. But the list also includes vegetables such as cauliflower, eggplant, alphalpha sprouts and corn which are lighter in color.

Fruits that are high in antioxidants include: blueberries, cranberries, blackberries, strawberries, raspberries, plums and oranges as well as dried fruit such as prunes, raisins and apricots. Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are also good antioxidants.

Foods that are high in Omega-3’s, such as fish, also help protect our brains from aging. Suggested fish are mackerel, herring, sardines, salmon, tuna and any white fish.

Meals should be balanced with breakfast being one of the most important meals of the day. It is important to eat low fat foods and not over indulge. Alcohol should only be taken in moderation because it restricts the blood flow to the brain, as does smoking. It is also believed that smoking in later life can promote mental decline. Coffee also should be taken in moderation.

A diet that is healthy for the brain is also good for the heart. And if followed, a diet such as the above will also help decrease the chances of obesity. Maintaining the health of our brain should not start when we first notice deterioration; it should begin when we are young and be continued throughout our lives.