You’ve heard it before: You are what you eat. It sounds simple, but it affects more than we think. Every single one of our body’s intricate functions is fueled by what we put in our mouths. That means that the food we ingest has an impact on our brains and how they function as well. How exactly does our brain respond to healthy vs. unhealthy foods?
Nutritional psychiatrists had this to say:
“Your brain is always “on.” It takes care of your thoughts and movements, your breathing and heartbeat, your senses — it works hard 24/7, even while you’re asleep. This means your brain requires a constant supply of fuel. That “fuel” comes from the foods you eat — and what’s in that fuel makes all the difference. Put simply, what you eat directly affects the structure and function of your brain and, ultimately, your mood.” *
So, what is the best way to eat?
I’ve followed research for many years that states the health benefits of adopting a Mediterranean diet. It seems to be one constant in the ever-changing fads of the diet industry. While this way of eating used to be reserved for those living near lush land with a perennial growing season, many of us now have access to healthy produce year round.
What exactly does the Mediterranean way of eating consist of?
The foundation consists of eating primarily plant-based foods, like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, and nuts. Olive oil replaces saturated fats like butter and synthetic spreads. A wide variety of herbs and spices add flavor instead of salt. Fish and poultry are the lean meats of choice, with red meat being reserved for only a few times a month.
Then there’s the optional glass of red wine.
The anthocyanins and bioflavanoids contained have been shown to bolster heart health. Not everyone is a fan of wine, so fortunately there are alternatives. Even though I enjoy the occasional glass of malbec while making dinner, I take grape seed extract (called Proflavanol C 100) daily. It’s a powerful antioxidant that flushes your system of toxins, combats free radicals, boosts your immune system, and acts as an anti-inflammatory. I’ve seen it benefit many people with a variety of ailments like allergies, asthma, migraines, varicose veins, and arthritis.
I can tell you that switching from eating the average North American diet of meat and potatoes and fast food, to super-fresh was life changing for me. I married into a Portuguese family and learned how to make the flavorful dishes almost immediately.
Take it one meal at a time.
Over the years, I’ve adapted some recipes to include even more diverse vegetables, but the base of beans, legumes, and fish gave me a lot to work with. I went from feeling bloated, dehydrated, and tired, to enjoying lots of energy and way more fun in the kitchen.
I love the Mediterranean way of eating and incorporate many of their cooking principles in my kitchen. Check out the recipe section of my blog to see some healthy options to add to your menu today!
Want more healthy lifestyle tips and tasty nutritious recipes? Subscribe here to get them fresh off the press straight to your inbox.
Blessings,
Sheila
*Harvard Nutritional psychiatry: Your brain on food: https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626?utm_source=hootsuite
Your website is very useful to me! i will say thanks u very much to sharing this interesting stuff.
Thanks! It’s my pleasure. :))