Food for Thought

Omega-3 fatty acids—found in salmon,
walnuts, flax seeds and kiwi fruit—have been linked in numerous studies
to improvements in learning and memory. The curry spice curcumin has
similar benefits.

A study conducted at the National Institute on Aging and published in The Journal of Neuroscience
found that natural compounds found in blueberries, tea, grapes and
cocoa enhanced memory in mice. Noteworthy is the finding that when this
diet was combined with exercise, the benefits were further increased.

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An investigation at Tufts University
found that eating the daily equivalent of a pint of strawberries or a
large spinach salad reduces brain aging in rats. These are two foods
rich in antioxidants, which neutralize the harmful effects of free
radicals in the body.

Most researchers in this new field of
food neuroscience remind us that it is better to obtain our needed
nutrients directly from cuisine than from supplements whenever
possible. They also insist that much of our fast food is lacking in
nutritional value and may even be harmful if loaded with trans fats and
saturated fat.

Not only will a balanced diet rich in
fruits and vegetables help prevent heart disease, obesity and some
forms of cancer, it is now clear that the type of food we ingest has a
direct effect on our body and mind. As the adage goes, you are what you
eat.