Are you eating these super foods to protect your brain health?

by James Gitau for Standard Digital:Eat a balanced meal if you want to be healthy. You have probably heard this message since you were a child. If your parents were educated and blessed with the means, you probably ate the recommended diet more often than not.If they were broke, like mine, or ignorant, then you ate to fill the stomach so that you could sleep through the night. This remains the norm, as what many families eat is dictated by their income and knowledge. We also know that many people’s standard diet has not produced the best results, as the cases of diet-related disease continue to increase. Today, we will look at what many nutritionists and other experts agree are super foods that will help your body remain healthy and energized.1. TurmericThis antioxidant, antiseptic and anti-inflammatory spice gives curry its distinctive taste. It is said to protect against cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. It also improves circulation, prevents blood clotting and tames a variety of pains, including arthritis.You will find it in many supermarkets in powder form. It may also be found whole in some markets. Cook it in sauces, soups or stews, or sprinkle it on salads or grilled foods.2. Coconut oilThis is an antioxidant that will keep your body running smoother. Coconut oil helps bolster your immune system against viruses and bacteria that can cause illness. It can also improve thyroid function and blood sugar control.It is known to aid with digestion, reduce cholesterol and keep weight balanced. One doctor has claimed that she used it to reverse her husband’s Alzheimer condition. She recommends the use of extra virgin coconut oil for improving brain function. Coconut oil is highly resistant to oxidation at high heats. Use it to replace butter and other oils in your favourite recipes, whether baking, frying or stewing — the possibilities are endless!3. EggsThere has been a lot of debate on eggs lately, especially quail egg. Some people have argued that eggs are high in cholesterol. Others that have advocated for them, saying the benefits outweigh the dangers.Eggs, and especially the yolks, contain minerals like calcium and magnesium, and vitamins A, D, E, B6, B12. Eggs are loaded with so many nutrients that some scientists suggest a few eggs a day could be better than a dose of multivitamin. They have carotenoids essential for healthy eyes, protecting against vision loss.Eggs are rich in protein and are an energy-sustaining food that helps stave off fatigue. Eat them for breakfast or as a snack. Eggs are best eaten raw. Boiled or poached would be the next best alternatives.4. Sweet potatoesThis is a delicious traditional food found in many parts of the country. Sweet potatoes are rich in beta-carotene, and have 150 per cent more antioxidants than blueberries. They are also high in vitamin A, which is good for the heart, and vitamin C, which keeps your immune system strong.Substitute sweet potatoes for regular potatoes or bread. Whether you bake them, boil them or mash them, they still taste great. To keep the nutritional value intact, avoid dousing them in sugar or syrups, and cook them in as little water as possible.5. BeetrootBeets are a unique source of betaine, a compound that helps protect cells, proteins, and enzymes from environmental stress. It is also known to help fight inflammation, protect internal organs, improve vascular functioning, enhance performance, and prevent numerous chronic diseases.In addition to liver-protecting qualities, beetroot dilates your vessels so blood flows more easily, and contains iron, which helps deliver oxygen throughout the body and fights anaemia. While eating whole foods is the ideal way to get all its nutrients, juicing beets guarantees you more of the phytonutrients, which also help lower your blood pressure. Cooking beetroot decreases its nutrient content!Source: http://bit.ly/Q3nMKW