Balanced diet – Source Pixabay – Ilcorrierino.com
A well-balanced diet can also bring positive results on cognitive functions: experts say so
A healthy and balanced diet is one of the fundamental pillars of physical and emotional well-being, essential for living healthy.
Eating healthy foods is not only essential for maintaining good physical shape, but it is also crucial for improving yours cognitive functionality.
It is often ignored that the benefits of a balanced diet also influence the health of our brain, on the level of concentration and memory.
A study was recently conducted by some Israeli researchers which analyzes the link between a balanced diet and cognitive decline.
Expert research
Leading a healthy life with a balanced diet is essential to improving the quality of life and preventing diseases. The research conducted by Ben-Gurion University in Israel has shown that there is a correlation between eating style and cognitive decline.
The researchers studied a sample of 224 participants with an average age of 51 years and all with obesity problems and high levels of fat in the blood. Divided into three groups, each of them followed three different food diets and the results were nothing short of surprising.
Nutrition and cognitive decline – Source Pinterest – Ilcorrierino.com
The results of the study on balanced nutrition
Research conducted by international researchers has shown that there is a relationship between the eating style one leads and the possibility of accelerating cognitive atrophy. The participants underwent an MRI before starting the experiment and at the end of the diet. For 18 months, the three groups followed three different diets: the Mediterranean one, the plant-based diet which involved the consumption of very little meat and a standard healthy diet. As the website reports “fanpage.it“, the results of the investigation were published in theAmerican Journal of Clinical Nutrition and two fundamental aspects emerged.
The first factor that cannot be underestimated concerns the level of fat in the blood. Those who had their blood sugar levels under control also showed less cognitive decline. The second factor, however, concerns the three food diets. The investigation showed that the plant-based diet is successful in keep your blood sugar levels under control and consequently, it is the best for counteracting brain inflammation and cognitive decline. This diet is rich in foods that contain polyphenols from plant sources like green tea or Mankai, or duckweed typical of South East Asia. This substance is able to slow down cognitive aging and allows you to maintain brain function.
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The Brainy Benefits of a Balanced Diet!
Well, well, well! Who knew that eating your greens could be the equivalent of a mental gym session, eh? It turns out a wonderfully balanced diet does more than just prevent your trousers from fitting snugly—it’s also giving your brain a workout! Yes, folks, that’s right! Experts are in agreement: if you want your cognitive functions to function, you can’t just rely on your morning coffee and a cheeky biscuit!
Now, we often think of a balanced diet as simply a means of keeping those pesky calories in check, but oh no, there’s much more on the menu! Eating healthy not only keeps the waistline in check but also serves as prime brain fuel—who needs a turbo booster when you’ve got broccoli and quinoa on your side? Talk about a superfood showdown!
Expert Research: The “Eat Smart or Don’t Eat at All” Edition!
So, let’s dive into some juicy research from our friends over at Ben-Gurion University in Israel. They decided to investigate the elusive link between a balanced diet and cognitive decline—like a modern-day Sherlock Holmes of nutrition! Their study looked at 224 participants, with an average age that could probably tell us a thing or two about life’s challenges, particularly if that includes deciphering how to fit into last summer’s shorts!
These participants were divided into three groups and subjected to three varied diets over 18 months. Kind of like a reality show, but instead of “Who Wants to Be a Millionaire,” it was “Who Wants to Keep Their Mind Sharp?” They had the Mediterranean diet, the plant-based diet, and a standard healthy diet—like a diet buffet, but no one’s stopping you from seconds!
The Results: Fatty Status and a Friendly Plant-Based Diet
The results were nothing short of astonishing! It turns out that your blood fat levels look quite a bit like your brain function—high levels can lead to a cognitive decline faster than you can say, “Where did I leave my keys?” But those who kept their blood sugar in check? Well, they were practically brainiacs by the end of it all!
And you know what’s the star of this cerebral show? Drumroll, please… it’s the plant-based diet! Apparently, eating your greens isn’t just about saving the planet; it’s about saving your grey matter too! Foods rich in polyphenols, like green tea and a trendy little aquatic plant called Mankai, could slow down cognitive aging. Who knew a little duckweed could do such wonders?!
How do specific nutrients affect cognitive performance, according to Dr. Thompson’s insights on nutrition and brain health?
**Interview with Dr. Sarah Thompson: Nutritionist and Cognitive Science Expert**
**Host:** Welcome, everyone! Today, we have a special guest with us, Dr. Sarah Thompson, a leading nutritionist and expert in cognitive science. We’re going to dive into the fascinating relationship between nutrition and cognitive function. Thanks for joining us, Dr. Thompson!
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me! I’m excited to discuss this important topic.
**Host:** Let’s get right into it! We recently learned about a study from Ben-Gurion University that indicates a balanced diet can significantly impact cognitive decline. Can you break down what that means for the average person?
**Dr. Thompson:** Absolutely! The study involved 224 participants, all dealing with obesity and elevated fat levels. They followed three different diets over the course of 18 months: the Mediterranean diet, fruits-and-vegetables/” title=”Boost Your Health with a Plant-Based Diet: Discover the Benefits of Fruits and Vegetables”>a plant-based diet, and a standard healthy diet. The findings revealed that those following the plant-based diet experienced the least cognitive decline, primarily because it helps regulate blood sugar levels and counteracts brain inflammation.
**Host:** That’s fascinating! You mentioned blood sugar control. Why is that so crucial for maintaining cognitive health?
**Dr. Thompson:** Controlling blood sugar levels is integral to brain health because fluctuations can lead to inflammation and fatigue in the brain. A diet rich in plant-based foods—particularly those high in polyphenols, like green tea and certain types of duckweed—can help mitigate these inflammatory responses, thereby protecting our cognitive functions.
**Host:** It sounds like our dietary choices can have profound effects on how our brain ages. What advice would you give to someone looking to improve their cognitive function through diet?
**Dr. Thompson:** Start by incorporating more whole, plant-based foods into your meals. Think leafy greens, fruits, nuts, and whole grains. Reducing processed foods and sugars can also make a big difference. It’s about creating a colorful plate that nourishes both body and brain!
**Host:** Great tips! Before we wrap up, what are some everyday foods that you’d consider “superfoods” for the brain?
**Dr. Thompson:** Definitely! Foods like blueberries, fatty fish rich in omega-3s like salmon, walnuts, and dark chocolate are fantastic for brain health. They’re packed with antioxidants and nutrients that can help protect cognitive function and even improve memory.
**Host:** Thank you, Dr. Thompson! It sounds clear that a balanced diet is not just about physical health, but also crucial for maintaining a sharp mind as we age.
**Dr. Thompson:** Exactly! It’s never too late to start adopting healthier habits, and your brain will thank you for it!
**Host:** Wonderful insights. Thank you again for joining us today, and we hope everyone takes a moment to consider their dietary choices for the health of their minds!
**Dr. Thompson:** Thank you for having me!