Eating foods that are good for your heart are also good for your brain. That makes perfect sense because if what you eat keeps your cardiovascular system in shape, the muscle that is a major factor in supplying your brain with oxygen, then, of course, you should have a decent chance of keeping your brain healthy.

Recently there has been much research on the subject. The good news is that it also holds true as you get older because it helps ensure that your brain receives the blood full of nutrients. Everything about your heart affects your circulation and good circulation is required for good brain function. You increase your odds for good brain function by eating foods that reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease, obesity, inflammation and other health risks.

One recent study showed that concentration on nutrition for your heart can also preserve your memory as you age. The conclusion for this was based on the DASH diet, or Dietary Approach to Stop Hypertension. It has been published for some time but remains at the top of most lists for good nutrition no matter what the trend. Tests on brain function with the DASH diet have been ongoing for at least 12 years. It is also a diet recommended by the American Heart Association.

Researchers found that participants in the study who followed the DASH diet closest scored significantly higher on tests of cognitive functioning then those who hardly followed the diet. Interestingly, the studies also show that four subgroups of foods in your diet,vegetables, nuts or legumes, whole grains and low fat dairy products, were also associated with higher scores on cognitive tests.

Foods to Avoid for Healthier Hearts and Brains


The bottom line is that everything you eat is going to influence the way your brain functions because food gives your body the raw materials it needs to build, replace and repair everything and to operate efficiently. Oatmeal, for example, is highly recommended for both your heart and brain health. Oatmeal also contains ferulic acid, an antioxidant found in the germ and bran of grains. Ferulic acid appears to be a general protector of brain cells, keeping them supple and responsible by eliminating the toxins. I am guessing we will be seeing more research on this antioxidant.

Too much fat in your diet, however, is not good, especially the saturated fats found in whole milk and cream, and animal products. Trans fats are another fat to avoid, usually found in processed foods and margarines and can clog blood vessels and reduce circulation. Refined foods, processed foods and junk foods in general are not going to help your brain either. They often contain too much salt, are loaded with the wrong kinds of fat, and contain sugar and preservatives. They also lack much of nutritional value such as healthy fiber, antioxidants and essential nutrients.

Too much sugar is also to be avoided. Too much sugar and fatty sweets can lead to metabolic syndrome and diabetes. Both of these conditions are associated with greater risk for high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and cognitive problems. The bottom line, there is not much you can do with hereditary factors that may increase your risk for heart problems but you can lower your risk for creating problems for your brain by adapting a healthy lifestyle and eating with good nutrition in mind.

Ruthan Brodsky is a health and business writer with expertise in healthy aging. Based on 26 years of research for health writing you can claim your free report, Challenging Your Brain, how to keep your brain in shape at http://www.secretstohealthandaging.com/welcome

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