7 Great Natural Products To Strengthen The Brain
Although brain health depends on many internal and external factors, it is possible to improve it through habits. As a publication in the Duodecim magazine highlights , the practice of physical activity, a healthy diet and intervention on risk factors, early enough, contribute to keeping the brain healthy.
However, in relation to nutrition, it has been determined that the consumption of some products is also beneficial for the brain. While scientists stress the importance of finding more evidence, for now the findings suggest that they can be considered as part of the diet. Discover them!
7 products to strengthen the brain
In recent years, there has been a lot of research on the relationship between nutrition and brain health. One of these studies, published via Nature Reviews Neuroscience, highlights that interesting evidence has been found of the influence of dietary factors on the systems and mechanisms that regulate brain function.
For example, a high consumption of omega 3 fatty acids is being linked to support different cognitive processes in humans. Likewise, they could play an important role in preventing brain deterioration. What products are good?
The evidence to support the use of certain products as supplements to strengthen the brain is still limited. Despite this, they could be considered as part of a healthy diet. Give them a try!
1. Walnuts
Nuts are foods rich in omega 3 essential fatty acids and vitamin E, which help strengthen the brain. According to research published in the Journal of Nutrition , they also contain numerous phytochemicals that provide potential brain health benefits.
Specifically, and according to the data of this study, the polyphenolic compounds found in walnuts decrease the oxidative and inflammatory load in brain cells. In addition, they help improve interneuronal signaling and participate in neurogenesis.
2. Ginkgo biloba
Natural products like ginkgo biloba have not yet been approved as a treatment for brain problems. However, its extracts have been studied, as benefits have been found against cognitive decline and memory problems.
Research published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine determined that Ginkgo Biloba extract may contribute to an improvement in symptoms of age-related cognitive decline.
3. Gotu kola
To strengthen the brain we can also resort to gotu kola. This plant, native to Asia and also known as gotu kola or brahmi, has traditionally been used to promote memory.
A study in Brain and Behavior concludes that the aqueous extracts of gotu kola have the potential to increase synaptic density and antioxidant and mitochondrial proteins. In turn, they could improve various facets of age-associated cognitive decline.
4. Pollen
Bee pollen is a nutrient-dense food that has been extensively researched for its interesting health effects. As far as the brain is concerned, a study published in the Journal of Molecular Neuroscience determined that it can help combat oxidative stress, neuronal death and other factors associated with neurological disorders.
5. Rosemary
Rosemary extracts have been a part of alternative medicine for hundreds of years. Even today they are still being investigated, since they have been shown to provide important health benefits.
Regarding its ability to strengthen the brain, it should be noted that it can contribute to improving cognition. A study published in the Medical Journal of The Islamic Republic of Iran found that its antioxidant bioactivities help to inhibit oxidative stress. Also, it can improve memory score.
6. Mint
Mint is another aromatic medicinal plant that we can also use to give a therapeutic and refreshing aroma to a room. Both its essential oil and its leaves have different applications in alternative medicine.
Coinciding with research published in Nutrients , the stimulus that mint causes in our body is obtained thanks to menthol. Specifically, its essential oil could improve mental performance and mitigate mental fatigue.
7. Maca
This tuber native to the Andes, which is frequently consumed there as food, has spread throughout the world as a powdered supplement. It aroused the interest of many researchers, as it concentrates important nutrients and antioxidant substances.
One of the recent studies, published in Evidence-Based Complementary and Alternative Medicine, points out that maca has neuroprotective effects that, among other things, improve cognitive functions, motor coordination and endurance capacity. Since this research was done in rodents, more evidence is required.
Did you know about these products with beneficial properties to strengthen the brain? Don’t forget that studies on its safety and efficacy are limited. Therefore, you should use them with caution. Find out about its side effects and contraindicants. Also, consult your doctor before taking them if you suffer from any disease or are under any treatment.