Can functional foods provide benefits for those with neurological disorders?
This article will examine the potential role that functional foods can play in treating and managing neurological disorders. Functional foods are foods with a positive impact on the health that goes beyond nutrition. These foods can reduce the risks of many diseases, and also improve your physical and mental well-being. Let's explore how superfoods contribute to neurohealth.
Why Functional Foods are Important for Neurological Health
In recent years, functional foods have attracted a lot of attention due to the potential health benefits they can provide. These foods may provide additional support to people who suffer from neurological disorders. Studies have linked neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, Multiple Sclerosis and other diseases to inflammation and oxidative stresses in the body. Antioxidants and foods with anti-inflammatory qualities can be used to combat this issue.
Journal of Neural Transmission published a study that shows how dietary factors influence neurochemistry, and can impact the progression of disorders. Functional foods such as leafy greens and fatty fish are rich in nutrients important to brain health. It's important to remember that functional foods may support neurologic health but they can not replace medical treatment.
Get Started With Functional Foods
It's best to increase your intake of functional foods gradually and slowly if you are considering adding more into your diet. It gives your body time for it to adapt to new foods. Consulting a health professional or dietician will also give you insight on what functional foods are best for your condition.
According to research published in the British Journal of Nutrition, a diet high in vegetables, fruits, grains, and proteins that are lean can help support brain health. According to Current Nutrition Reports, the Mediterranean diet that emphasizes all of these components has been linked with lower neurological disorders.
Functional Foods for Brain Health
- They are high in antioxidants that help to reduce inflammation and oxidative stresses.
- Green tea contains polyphenols with neuroprotective effects.
- Omega-3-rich fish: Sardines, salmon, trout and other fatty fish are rich in essential fatty acids for the brain.
- Broccoli is a vegetable that contains antioxidants, vitamin K and other nutrients believed to be beneficial for brain health.
- Curcumin is the active component of turmeric. It has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Pumpkin Seeds: These seeds are rich in antioxidants, magnesium, zinc, iron and copper.
- Citrus fruits: Oranges are rich in vitamin C which is essential for mental health.
- Eggs are a good source of folate and choline, as well as vitamins B6 and 12 and folate.
- Walnuts are high in DHA (a type Omega-3 fatty acids that improve cognitive function in adults).
- Dark Chocolate is good for your brain because of its flavonoids and caffeine.
Other Tips
Regular exercise, sufficient sleep and stress management are also important for neurological health. Meditation, mindfulness, and yoga can all help to manage stress. It's important to remember that brain health is not only about adding healthy foods to your diet.
Conclusion
Functional foods are a great way to support those who suffer from neurological diseases. These foods are full of nutrients that fight inflammation and oxidative stresses, both linked with many neurological disorders. It's vital to keep in mind that these foods do not cure, but are supportive measures. Consult a medical professional before you make any significant changes to your diet.
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