Is it possible to improve the health of neuronal cells by eating a low-refined sugar diet?
This informative article will discuss the possible impact of a low-refined sugar diet on neuronal function and health. This question is often asked of me as a nutritionist and dietician. I will provide a detailed analysis, based on research and scientific studies . You will understand how sugar impacts your brain by the end of the article and why it is beneficial to reduce its consumption.
Reduce refined sugars to improve neuronal health
Sugars that are refined have a negative impact on the brain and can cause a number of health issues. As its primary source of energy, the brain heavily relies on sugars, specifically glucose. Consuming too much sugar, particularly refined sugars can cause cognitive impairment and memory loss, as well as an increased risk for neurodegenerative disorders such Alzheimer's.
In a 2017 report published in "Scientific Reports", it was found that mice with high sugar intake had impaired memory and cognitive flexibility. A review conducted by the University of California also suggested that high sugar consumption could cause inflammation in the mind, leading to cellular damage and death. This would ultimately affect cognitive function.
Reduce Refined Sugars: Get Started
It is important to first identify foods that are high in refined sugar. This includes processed food, sweets, sugary drinks, and cereals. By replacing these foods with healthy fats and whole grains, you can reduce your sugar consumption.
In a 2012 article published in "Brain, Behavior, and Immunity", researchers found that consuming a diet high in vegetables, fruits, and lean proteins, as well as healthy fats, also known by the name Mediterranean diet, could help prevent brain inflammation and cognitive degeneration. Adopting a Mediterranean diet may be a good strategy to improve neuronal health.
They can also improve neuronal health
- These berries are packed with antioxidants and have shown to improve brain function.
- Broccoli: Broccoli is high in vitamin K and antioxidants, both of which are believed to be beneficial for brain health.
- Pumpkin Seeds - Rich in antioxidants, magnesium, iron and zinc.
- Dark Chocolate contains flavonoids and caffeine as well as antioxidants.
- Oranges are a great source of Vitamin C. It is essential for mental health.
- Eggs are a good source of folate and choline, as well as vitamins B6 and 12 and folate.
- Green tea: Improves memory and concentration, as well as alertness.
- Walnuts are high in DHA (a type Omega-3 fatty acids).
- Turmeric - Curcumin is the active ingredient of turmeric and it has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
- Fish is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids, which are a key building block for the brain.
Other Tips
Regular physical activity, along with a healthy diet can improve your brain's health. Exercise releases chemicals that influence the health of the brain's cells and the development of new blood vessel in the head. It can also affect the survival and abundance of new brain cell.
A good night's sleep is also important for brain health. It has been shown that poor sleep can impair the brain's function. The journal Nature published a study that showed sleep improved learning and memory while lack of it impaired them.
Conclusion
A diet that is low in sugar can have an important positive effect on the health and function of neuronal cells. Reduced sugar consumption, combined with regular exercise and a diet rich in nutrient-rich food, will all help improve cognitive function. Your dietary decisions today will have an impact on your future health. Choose wisely.
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