Dementia and other degenerative brain diseases tend to have a gradual onset. One major cause of dementia, or memory deterioration, is due to the increase in prescribed medication, particularly in the elderly as this is a common side effect to nearly all prescribed medications. Other causes of brain deterioration include: diets high in saturated fat, animal protein, fried foods, MSG (monosodium glutamate), baking powder containing aluminum (aluminum free baking powder is available in health food stores), alcohol, cigarette and marijuana use, high consumption of tuna or other large fish such as sword fish, shark and king mackerel as they contain high amounts of mercury.
One of the most superior brain foods is fish, particularly fish oil. The most crucial time to introduce fish oil is while your child is in the womb or even better while trying to conceive. Omega-3 fatty acids along with DHA and EPA, also included in fish oils, are key in brain development. It is also important during breast feeding for the mother to take fish oil as it will be transported via breast milk to the infant. As the child weans off of breast milk, it is still important to supplement the child with fish oil. However, not all fish oil is created equally. I've stated before that Nordic Naturals Cod Liver Oil is far superior to other brands, and this still holds true. All of Nordic Naturals fish oil goes through a strict cleansing that removes any PCB's, mercury, and other environmental toxins from their oils. Other brands do not do this so there is a risk of ingesting mercury and other toxins from these other oils. If your concerned that you won't be able to get your child to swallow cod liver oil, Nordic Naturals sells fish oil that are chewable gummies flavored with real fruit. This is a healthy and easy solution for the child if there is resistance to swallowing a mouth full of oil.
Fish oil decreases inflammation and pain throughout the entire body, especially the brain. It prevents any blockage and/or inflammation in the brain and allows the cerebral fluids to flow unimpeded. As an adult, fish oil is also crucial to prevent inflammation and diseases such as ADHD, dementia and Alzheimer's. The American diet tends to be high in omega-6 oils, these include: soybean oil, corn, meat, dairy, eggs, fowl, safflower oil , margarine etc Omega-6 fatty acids increase inflammation, especially when omega-3's are absent from the diet. By decreasing one's intake of omega-6 fatty acids and adding fish oil to the diet and other omega-3 sources, one can enhance brain health, heart health, decrease inflammation and other degenerative diseases such as cancer.
There are other sources of omega-3 fatty acids that also benefit the brain, especially when used in conjunction with fish oil. These include: Flax seeds (be sure to grind as this releases their omega-3 properties; ungrounded flax seeds tend to be hard on the digestive system and the omega-3 properties aren't released unless ground be sure to refrigerate after grinding), chia seeds, hemp seeds (contain a perfect balance of omega-3:omega-6 fatty acids), wild caught fish such as sockeye salmon, Alaskan salmon, wild Coho Salmon and anchovies. Other foods that increase brain health are: walnuts (shaped like a brain!), green leafy vegetables, purslane (a green that can be added to salads or stir-fry's), cauliflower (also brain shaped), and of course following the anti-inflammatory diet will help with maintaining healthy brain function as well.
One cannot discuss brain health without mentioning the benefits of ginkgo. The ginkgo tree is an ancient tree and is regarded as a "living fossil" and "one of the oldest trees in the world". It is a beautiful representation of yin and yang as there are both male and female trees. A female tree cannot produce seeds unless it is adjacent to a male tree or if part of a male tree is inserted into a female tree. A female tree can further produce seeds if it is planted next to water as it's reflection can initiate reproduction. Ginkgo is said to enhance longevity and vitality as the tree itself can grow to great heights and live for thousands of years even under extreme stress such as Atomic bombings, lightening strike and treacherous storms. It enhances circulation and is known as a brain tonic as it increases cerebral circulation and overall brain health. Ginkgo is also known to benefit the heart, kidney's, spleen, stomach and the lungs. Another herb that enhances cognitive function is gotu kola. Gotu Kola is an Ayuvedic herb that can be easily incorporated into the diet by making a tea with other herbs such as peppermint and rose hips.
CAUTION: I am required to state that: One should consult a physician before taking supplements especially if one is on blood thinners as omega-3's and Ginkgo act as natural, plant-based blood thinners.
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