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Introduction
The brain is arguably the most important organ in the human body. This three-pound organ is the seat of the intellect, the interpreter of the senses, the initiator of body movement, and the controller of our behavior. It is like the master computer that processes our experiences and helps us navigate the body through life.
The brain is working constantly, and because of this, it is a very energy demanding organ. If we do not give the brain what it needs to thrive, we run the risk of experiencing cognitive decline, especially as we age.
Supplements specially fortified for the brain also exist and are worth considering if you currently suffer from confusion, forgetfulness, and a lack of focus and mental clarity. If so, this is the best supplement for brain fog.
But the best way hands down to keep the brain in tip top shape and prevent problems to begin with, is to be proactive by giving it what it needs to function at its best.
So without further ado, here are five things that the brain needs to stay in good health…
Five Things the Brain Needs to Stay in Good Health
1. Oxygen
Having enough oxygen in the brain is crucial to brain function, and therefore, to the body as a whole. The brain requires a constant supply of oxygen, and without enough oxygen or with low blood-oxygen levels, the brain has trouble signaling where to send blood to oxygen-hungry muscles and tissues.
As we are breathing constantly, one may not think this is much of an issue. The truth is, however, that most people unknowingly breathe very shallow breaths and significantly limit the amount of oxygen that they are giving to the brain. Additionally, many people live in polluted environments where air quality is poor. Therefore, to keep the brain healthy, focus both on the quantity and quality of oxygen that you consume. Find ways to improve indoor air quality, such as using house plants and HEPA air filters, and take deep breaths frequently. In fact, why not take a few deep breaths right now as you read this?
2. Water
Like all parts of the body, the brain needs water to function. Drinking water increases the brain’s temperature and gets rid of toxins and dead cells. It also keeps cells active and balances chemical processes in the brain, helping to regulate stress and anxiety. Staying hydrated is essential to keeping the brain in good health.
3. Glucose
Glucose is the main sugar found in your blood. It comes from the food you eat, and is your body’s main source of energy. Your blood carries glucose to all of your body’s cells to use for energy. Glucose is the main source of energy for the brain, and so, ensuring the body and brain are continually supplied with glucose is essential to your health. This comes from eating a healthy diet rich in natural carbohydrates like fruits, vegetables, and grains.
4. Fat
The human brain is nearly 60 percent fat. Researchers have discovered in recent years that fatty acids are among the most crucial molecules that determine your brain’s integrity and ability to perform. Therefore, ensuring that you eat plenty of healthy fats in your diet is an important way to maintain brain health.
5. Low Levels of Toxins
Most toxins store in fatty tissues in the body, and since the brain is nearly 60% fat, toxins easily become stored in the brain. This can impair brain function and cognitive performance, and in some cases, can be very damaging to our health.
To keep the brain in good health, especially as we age, it is important that we avoid harmful toxins and eliminate built up toxins in the body. We can be exposed to toxins from a variety of sources: food, water, air, environmental pollution, chemicals in products, etc. Over time, these toxins accumulate in the body, and if we don’t remove them, they can negatively impact our health.
Detoxifying the body with natural detox herbs and supplements is a great way to safely and conveniently remove toxins from the body. Zuma Nutrition has a diverse detox product line (https://www.zumanutrition.com/collections/detox), and they also offer supplements for improving brain function using clinically studied herbs.
Conclusion
The brain is a very important organ, and without it, we could not live. As we age, we become increasingly at risk of experiencing a decline in cognitive health. To prevent this, and to protect our brain and improve our brain health, we need to take proactive measures to stay healthy. Sufficient oxygen, a continual supply of glucose, plenty of water, fatty acids, and low levels of toxins are what the brain needs to thrive. If you continue to give your brain what it needs to stay in good health, your brain can continue to care for you well into your later years.
References:
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6023993/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2908954/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3900881/
- https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4111935/
About Theresa Duncan
Originally from Detroit, MI, Theresa has been offering health and fitness advice for the last 30 years while working as an engineer. She decided to turn her passion into a profession, and finds nothing more satisfying than helping others reach their health and fitness goals.