Try these three expert tips for enhancing brain function. Plus, six foods you should add to your diet to help slow the ageing process.
Does your brain need a boost? Professor Paul Taylor of the University of San Francisco provides three tactics to enhance brain function.
1. Train it:
Cardiovascular strength training is paramount in training the brain.
2. Befriend it:
Developing a sense of community is crucial for healthy brain function. In fact, it has been shown that people can increase their longevity by five years for every social group they are involved in.
3. Feed it:
The right stuff to feed the brain essentially follows the traditional Mediterranean diet: one rich in vegetables, fish and whole grains, and low in meat and sugar.
Green Tea:
Green tea helps preserve cognitive function by protecting the glial cells, which mop up debris in the central nervous system. Drinking 2-4 cups per day is recommended.
Blueberries:
Blueberries stand out when it comes to helping improve brain health; however, remember to include strawberries and dark-coloured berries for a range of brain-boosting benefits.
Leafy Greens:
Researchers have found people who eat one to two servings of green leafy vegetables per day have the cognitive ability of a person 11 years younger. Yet another reason to eat your greens.
Walnuts:
Walnuts are high in DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid. DHA is found in high concentrations in the brain and increased intake has been shown to improve cognitive function
Turmeric:
This spice has shown promise in preventing or delaying the symptoms associated with Alzheimer’s. Add some to guacamole for a deliciously different summer dip.
Oily Fish:
Oily fish provides another great source of omega-3 fatty acid to feed the brain. When choosing oily fish, stick with sardines and anchovies where possible to avoid high amounts of mercury.
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