Typically, we eat with our body weight or heart health in mind, but research from Deakin University now shows we should also be eating for our brains too.
Dr Jenny Brockis, the brain fitness doctor and author of Future Brain, shares that “Right down to the cellular level, choosing the right foods makes a really important difference to how well our brain operates. “
It’s for this reason that the Mediterranean diet — rich in vegetables, fruit, lean protein and healthy fats — is one of the best diets for optimal brain health.
Introducing the Mediterranean diet
“The Mediterranean diet is predominantly plant-based…, but also includes seafood and olive oil which is helpful for brain function. It’s the variety of foods that are included in the Mediterranean diet that probably make it the best.”
Haven’t heard of the Mediterranean diet? Here’s a summary of what’s included:
- Fruits and Vegetables – It’s a staple of every healthy diet!
- Wholegrains – We’re talking things like wholemeal bread and brown rice
- Fish – Oily fish (like trout and salmon) in particular is great for your health
- Legumes – These are vegetables which grow in pods. Peas, beans lentils, and chickpeas are great examples.
- Fats and oils – Don’t let the name scare you. Choose mono-unsaturated oils (like olive oil) over saturated animal fats
- Nuts and seeds – Unsalted nuts are a great source of unsaturated fats, along with protien, fibre and more
- White meat – Lean chicken and turkey is recommended up to twice a week.
- Wine – Sound too good to be true? In moderation Wine has great benefits, like Antioxidants!
If you’d like to try the full Mediterranean Diet at home, read further about how to incorporate these changes in your diet by clicking here.
