FOOD FOR THOUGHT
All through childhood our parents would say “Eat your fish, its brain food.” And of course they were absolutely right. Children and adults alike need plenty of fresh, oily cold water fish such as cod, salmon, mackerel, sardines and flounder to nourish brain function and to provide the precious Omega 3 Fish Oils which helps reduce inflammation, quiet overactive minds and elevate mood. For some, it makes sense to supplement diet with pure, pharmacy grade fish oil either because fresh fish is not available or not a table favorite. The nutrients and long chain fatty acids in pure fish oil provide precious brain fuel and contribute to focus, a balanced mood and feelings of wellbeing. If you don’t like the taste of fish or take fish oil supplements there are other ways of getting these all important brain nutrients into your daily diet.

Other good sources of Omega 3 fatty acids are walnuts, pure acai berry (a beautiful Omega rich anti-oxidant rain forest fruit), avocado, flax and flax oil. Cooking destroys the nutritive value of flax and please remember to refrigerate flax seeds and oil for they are both highly perishable; a tablespoon of ground seeds and oil makes a mind healthy addition to a smoothie.

Quinoa (pronounced keen-wa) is a delicious super grain that has omega fatty acids, amino acids, protein and fiber. You prepare it the same way you would rice or you can substitute quinoa flour and flakes in muffin, pancake and waffle recipes to help nourish developing young brains. Another amazing super grain, also rich in Omega 3 fats, is called Salba. Like Quinoa, it comes from South America and it can be added to baked goods to make them both waistline and brain healthy. Salba is high in fiber and it is higher in Omega 3 fatty acids than fish.

A diet rich in Omega 3 fatty acids provides defense against inflammation and helps regulate weight while enhancing mood. If you don’t eat clean, coldwater fish at least three times a week you may want to consider supplementing with pure, filtered fish oil. If you take blood thinners, prescription anticoagulants, garlic, ginko or aspirin be sure to speak with your physician before taking fish oil capsules.

Your brain thrives on omega rich foods and struggles on diets that are top heavy with sugar and other high glycemic index carbohydrates. And while your cardiologist may recommend small amounts of alcohol (wine and spirits) most neuroscientists agree that alcohol has a negative effect on brain function. If you increase foods that power up brain function and reduce sugar and alcohol your brain will show its gratitude in many wonderful ways.

Remember, too, that your brain needs lots of protein and pure, clean water to be at its best. A well nourished, well hydrated brain is a happy, healthy brain. If lack of focus, brain drain, memory loss and mood swings have become unwelcome in your life there are many wonderful foods you can enjoy that enhance brain health and function.

Jane H. Percy, Certified Neurotrainer, hypnotherapist and Director of
Riverlight Brain Training Center
107 Wilcox Road, Suite 106
Stonington, CT 06378 janepercy@sbcglobal.net
860-245-3632 www.riverlightcenter.com, an affiliate of www.brainstatetechnology.com