Feed Your Brain – Part One
Nothing gets my “geek juices” flowing more than reading about how the brain works, and more to the point, how what we eat affects this highly important apparatus.
The way we think is all important in terms of achieving certain results in our life. If we want insight into the reasons why our lives, health, bodies and finances are as they are today, it is important to consider just what is going on upstairs. And, it isn’t always so obvious.
Many clients have reported back to me that they were horrified once they started to pay attention to their self-talk. More than that, they all of a sudden realised just why they were where they were.
Because our thoughts are such a vital key to our results in life, the first fundamental concept I ever discuss with any client who comes to see me relates to achieving a “Masterful Mindset”.
The one aspect that left a significant gap in my understanding of this key area, however, was the observation and experience of how a person so naturally positive, productive, motivated, focused and energetic, could all of a sudden become so negative, lethargic, disorganised, lost, disillusioned and ill.
If it was all just about thinking right, how could things go so wrong?
That is when I learnt so much more about the role of the subconscious mind and what goes on behind the scenes that we often have no idea about, unless we decide to consciously dig deeper.
Furthermore I learnt much more about some incredible chemicals known as neurotransmitters and just what affects the production of these all important messengers that impact everything from our digestion, metabolism, moods, outlook, success, motivation, relationships, health and so much more.
So, to cut to the chase, today I would love to share with you some key insights into how what you put in your mouth affects the chemicals that are being produced by your brain, and how that then impacts literally every aspect of your life that you could care to know about.
Today, an introduction to the brain.
It is important to firstly understand the basic make up of the brain. Just like any other part of your body, the brain is made up of billions of cells. The cells of the brain are a specialised type called neurons.
Like any other cell, neurons are composed of a membrane that is mostly lipid (fat) surrounding a central collection of other specialised cells suspended in water. So at the most basic level, your brain is mostly made up of water and fat, with fat accounting for about 60% of its “dry weight”. Your spinal cord is similar, being about 70% fat.
Further to this, the type of fat that makes up these highly important structures is the most flexible type known – highly unsaturated fatty acids (HUFAs). The incredibly flexible nature of these fats means that the membranes they form are also highly flexible, allowing rapid communication between the billions of cells in the brain.
Neurotransmittersare the chemicals responsible for transferring information between neurons, and most of these are made within the brain.
Just like any other part of our body, brain cells and neurotransmitters are created from nutrients, thus without the correct type and amount of nutrients, it makes sense that we will struggle to function at our most optimal.
In the following pieces you will find a bit of a “checklist” you can tick off to ensure that you are supplying your brain with all the essential elements it needs to give you its best, thus creating a happier, healthier, more harmonious life:
1) Water– this is the most essential aspect to a healthy brain and mind. Being the most predominant material of which the brain is composed it is a NON-NEGOTIABLE factor in contributing to a clear, happy and “calmly alert” mind.
I advise my clients to drink at least 3 litres a day.
No, caffeinated beverages do not count as they are diuretics which cause you to lose fluid.
Yes, non-caffeinated herbal teas such as chamomile, peppermint, rosehip, rooibos can count, and yes they make yummy iced versions to give water a refreshing change.
Adding lemon, lime or orange slices can also make water more attractive, and fresh mint or cucumber can add an interesting twist.
In the winter I find it really hard to drink cold water so I sip on warm water (boiled water mixed 2:1 with cold/room temperature water), as well as loads of peppermint tea.
Experiment and have fun.
Just please know that if you have a brain, as you clearly do if you are reading this article, your requirement for water is essential, no matter what your “thirst” may otherwise indicate.
Suck this up, (pardon the pun) and give it a go for just the next week. Check in on how you’re feeling and have some way of tallying what you are getting in J
Most of all,enjoy the incredible difference this one habit can make to your daily sense of calm, peace and focus!
If you have any questions on this, please feel free to email me on bridget@newleafnutrition.com.au
Until next installment enjoy the incredible benefits of having a properly hydrated brain! J
Yours in geeky juices,
BridgetJane
Dietitian~Counsellor~Eating Psychology Coach
Writer, Speaker, Consultant
Bridget@newleafnutrition.com.au
0421 332243
Food Body Lifestyle Guru – New Leaf Nutrition
BLOG: Fit Fabulous and Fierce