There are six pillars of brain health:

1. nutrition

2. physical activity

3. social life

4. sleep and relaxation

5. mental exercise

6. cardiovascular health.

The brain uses about 20% of your total energy. An undernourished brain leads to cognitive dysfunction, mood swings. Long term unhealthy nutrition can lead to brain dysfunction. A healthy diet can reduce your risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke, which in turn are risk factors for dementia.

While there are superfoods for the brain, like berries, walnuts, fish etc, eating a wide variety of healthy foods is key to maintaining a healthy brain. Make sure to regularly eat fatty fish high in omega 3, dark green and orange vegetables, fruits, legumes - beans, lentils, etc, beef, fermented foods - kefir, sour cabbage, etc, eggs, nuts, seeds, whole grains, yogurt and so on.

Fill your plate with ½ veggies and fruit, ¼ quality protein containing healthy fats and ¼ fibre rich, whole grains, carbohydrates.

While plants are the most beneficial to your health, meat, eggs are also crucial for overall health.

• Lean meats provide vitamins and minerals, like B12, iron and zinc,

• Eggs provide choline

• Fish supplies omega 3 healthy fat for your body

All these contribute to healthy brain function.

Stay away or reduce the amount of highly processed foods. They are high in calories, low in nutrients and cause inflammation in your body, leading to illnesses.

Treat your body with nutritious food and you will feel better and happier.

*Disclaimer: For informational purposes only. All opinions expressed are my own personal thoughts, based on my personal research as a Healthy lifestyle coach. Use it at your own discretion.