Natural Medicine Cabinet: How Healthy Eating Supports Brain Health

Did you know that the human brain shrinks and becomes less "nimble" in old age? Though not entirely avoidable, we may be able to slow the process, according to a new Oregon study. How? Healthy food!

A study from Oregon Health Science University and Oregon State University has, "identified mixtures of nutrients that seem to protect the brain, and other food ingredients that may worsen brain shrinkage and cognitive decline," as reported in the December 28 Oregonian article"Some diets protect aging brains, others accelerate harm, Oregon study suggests."[1]

Diets high in trans fats (in general, foods high in trans fats can include baked goods, chips, crackers, dips, and spreads), "stood out as posing the most significant risk for brain shrinkage and loss of mental agility."

Older adults whose diets included ample amounts of vitamins B, C, D, and E "consistently scored better on tests of mental performance and showed less brain shrinkage than peers with lesser intake of those nutrients." (In general, foods high in vitamins B, C, D, and E include green, leafy vegetables, citrus fruits, oily fish, fish oils, nuts, and seeds.)

Another great reason healthy nutrition is our natural medicine cabinet!

Which foods are "must-have" in your kitchen? Spinach? Kale? Fresh, seasonal fruits?

Reference
Rojas-Burke, J. (2011, Dec 28). Some diets protect aging brains, others accelerate harm, Oregon study suggests. The Oregonian. Retrieved from http://www.oregonlive.com/health/index.ssf/2011/12/some_diets_protect_the_brain_o.html

Eating Seasonally May Cut Down On Food Miles And Increase Nutrition

Did you know that produce grown in the U.S. can travel 1500-2500 miles on average before it reaches your plate? That's a lot of food miles!

We mention this because diets rich in fruits and vegetables help maintain healthy weight and one way to eat more fruits and veggies is to focus on local seasonal foods. Seasonal foods are fresher, can be purchased locally (reducing transportation time, costs, and environmental factors), may have greater nutritional benefits, and often taste better.

Here's a link to download the National Resources Defense Council PDF Food miles: How far your food travels has serious consequences for your health and the climate

Are you headed to the farmer's market this weekend? Post a pic of your local market!!!!