4 Vital Nutrients for Brain Health
Posted in category: Health News, Health therapy at: November 11, 2011 by admin
The brain may be like ‘CPU’ for the body because the body can not work if the brain is not functioning properly. For it to function properly and optimally fixed, then the brain takes 4 of these important nutrients.
The brain is the organ most important to support or regulate the function of other organs. Besides this organ will also arrange their own needs ‘fuel’ or nutrients to be maintained and functioning properly.
If the brain is getting the proper intake so it will be able to provide the right signals so that the body is able to do it right. The following are four important nutrients to the brain, namely:
1. Essential fatty acids
Fatty acids play an important role in promoting growth and brain development. These nutrients also increase blood circulation, prevent depression and as a great mood booster that gives a positive effect and vitality to the brain.
Fatty acid which is responsible for improving brain function include ALA (alpha linolenic acid), EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid). The source of almonds, flaxseed oil, fish oil, salmon, sardines and mackerel.
2. Vitamin B
Several groups of vitamin B provides benefits for brain function such as:
- Vitamin B6 or Pyridoxine is important for the production of various neurotransmitters such as serotonin, dopamine and melatonin. Studies show vitamin intake is able to improve memory in older people, the source of whole grains, bananas, milk, meat and green leafy vegetables.
- Vitamin B12 plays a key role in normal brain function and nerve cells and red blood cell formation. This vitamin is derived from fish, eggs, milk and dairy products like cheese.
3. Antioxidants
These nutrients protect brain cells from oxidation process so as to prevent disease, and help restore memory by improving balance and motor coordination. The source of citrus fruits, lemons, grapes, cherries, tomatoes, green leafy vegetables, green tea, flax seeds and almonds.
4. Vitamin E
This vitamin helps maintain blood circulation in the brain and can serve as a powerful antioxidant. The source of sunflower oil, corn oil, tomato, pumpkin, sweet potato, mango, asparagus, broccoli and papaya.
