Understanding the brain
Our brains never switch off. It looks after our thoughts, feelings, instincts, senses, motion, breathing, heartbeat and every aspect of our behaviour, whether awake or asleep. Thus, how we look after our brain is important.
Nutrition plays a vital role in our brain and body health, and can have a powerful impact on how we think and feel. Research shows that the right nutrition improves brain health, resulting in better concentration, sociability and mental health.
The brain is the hungriest organ in the body. Although only around 2% of body weight, the brain consumes approximately 20% of our daily energy requirements. It therefore needs a continuous supply of energy. This energy comes from the food we eat. However, it is wrong to think that energy alone is the answer to our brain functioning well. The brain requires specific macronutrients and micronutrients, in sufficient amounts, to function optimally.
Unfortunately, typical western dietary habits, in combination with our food industry, has led to many of us being deficient in key nutrients, having damaging effects on our brain and body. Whilst it is well documented that chronic health conditions such as obesity and cardiovascular disease are on the increase, it is important to recognise that conditions surrounding brain health are also on this trajectory. With Dementia and Alzheimer’s being the leading cause of death in women, and mental health conditions affecting 1 in 4 of us, it is time that we look at ways to support and preserve brain health.
What we consume influences the structure and function of our brains, and has a direct impact on how we think and feel. We want to make sure everyone understands the key nutrients for brain health and the implications of not getting enough of the right foods. There is no point in our lifetime whereby nutrition is not key for brain development and structure.
By understanding the brain and understanding what nourishes the brain, we can be empowered to think through nutrition and make better food choices.
