Memory power is often a problem for many, and as parents, it’s a greater worry when bringing up a child. So, what is it that we need to do? Here is a bird’s-eye view for solving this problem.

 

Complex organic machines, our brains are. They have lightning-fast processing and reaction times. Also, they have mastery over all aspects of perception, movement, and cognition. Besides numbers (from the pre-mobile era), they also hold vast amounts of information. In the form of pictures, text, and ideas. Our brains control a plethora of intricate processes. For instance, the circadian rhythm, hormone balance, respiration, unconscious actions, and blood flow. They work without drawing our attention to details or particulars. In other words, our brains aren’t in rest while we’re asleep.

 

The brain, which only makes up 2% of our body weight but uses more than 20% of our calories. It is also the most energy-hungry organ in our bodies. Besides that, half of that power is going towards powering the bioelectrical signals. The signals that travel from our brains to every part of our bodies via our neurons.

 

While it’s true that what we put into our bodies has a direct impact on our physical health, it’s also true that what we eat influences our mental and emotional states too. It has an effect on our memory, energy levels, and resilience under pressure.

 

What have our ancestors said about food and memory power?

Keep in mind that the brain is as finicky as the rest of your body when it comes to what it needs to function. A steady supply of glucose and very little of others. Due to their inability to store this fundamental sugar. Forever, the neurons are hungry and depend on external sources. Carbohydrates, found in foods like fruits, vegetables, & grains, provide them with the required. I am not suggesting that you should eat junk food because the brain uses glucose as an energy source. The brain can’t use table sugar or high fructose corn syrup. Since they are processed and refined, it only needs sugar from food sources.

 

Thus, what I am advocating today is a healthy, well-balanced diet. The information in Thirukkural#945 (served only as a gentle reminder)

மாறுபாடு இல்லாத உண்டி மறுத்துண்ணின் ஊறுபாடு இல்லை உயிர்க்கு.

[Translated] If one moderates his meals and doesn’t find it unpleasant. There won’t be any catastrophe to their lives.

 

The List is here

Coconut oil: Medium-chain triglycerides used for energy are available in coconut oil. It frees up glucose for utilisation in brain cells. We can notice positive impacts on cholesterol, BP, and blood sugar levels as well. The brain also reaps the benefits of improved cardiovascular health. This item is no longer available on the diabetic menu due to the current diet specialists. My strong feeling is that it shouldn’t hurt you.

 

Beans—Excellent levels of complex carbs are noticeable in beans. The combination of fibre, which slows absorption. And the complex carbs in it provide a continuous supply of glucose without sugar spikes. Many of the other common sources have the risk of high sugar spikes. Folate, a B vitamin vital to brain function, and crucial omega fatty acids are abundant in beans as well.

 

Broccoli is a superfood for health. Vitamins C, B, beta-carotene, iron, fibre, and K are abundant in it. Besides warding off free radicals, these nutrients promote healthy blood flow. They also flush out harmful heavy metals from the brain.

 

Research shows the aroma of Marikozhudhu (rosemary)alone can enhance cognitive function & memory. It has antioxidant, mood-enhancing, and blood-flow-enhancing effects on the brain.

 

Eat more spinach to ward off or postpone dementia. Spinach is rich in vitamin E and folate as well. Spinach has nutrients that protect DNA. It also slows the growth of cancer cells and makes the brain work better for greater memory power.

 

A handful of nuts, particularly almonds and walnuts, can do wonders. It helps your neurological system and brain function in particular. Also to being an excellent source of vitamin E and B6, they are rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids. Research shows that vitamin E can protect the brain. Protect from free radicals & enhance cognitive abilities. Hence, they reduce the risk of many types of dementia and increases memory power.

 

Lycopene, found in tomatoes, is a potent antioxidant that fights dementia. They may also increase emotional stability.

 

Protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins are abundant in seeds. Such as sunflower and pumpkin seeds. The brain uses the tryptophan in these seeds to make serotonin. Serotonin improves mood and fights depression.

 

Polyphenols, found in plenty in red cabbage, are potent antioxidants. They have positive effects on the cardiovascular system and brain. There are cancer-fighting chemicals called glucosinolates in red cabbage as well.

 

Like whole grains, thinai (foxtail millet) is rich in complex carbs and fibre. They help keep blood sugar levels stable and meet the brain’s need for glucose. Thinai, along with the majority of grains, seeds, and nuts, contains phytic acid. Individuals who have an allergy to this protein are also gluten-free. Because it contains saponins as well, it has to soak for at least one night before cooking.

 

Sabja seeds are a good source of soluble and insoluble fibre and omega-3 fatty acids. These little seeds pack a punch, helping with blood sugar regulation. It also helps in fighting inflammation, dehydration, and antioxidant defence. The most common use is in Falooda.

 

Whole grains include complex carbs, fibre, and omega-3 fatty acids. It protects the cardiovascular system, brain, and other organs from harmful things. Things like high cholesterol, blood clots, and sugar spikes. The B vitamins included in grains also influence the brain’s blood flow and mood.

 

Thanks for getting this far!

 

One more thing: ‘Ladies Finger’ is a myth that many people believe. It isn’t real (especially in the math department), but it’s actually delicious. While it may appear that none of the foods listed above are dangerous, it’s good to test them. It’s always a good idea to gauge your body’s reaction to new foods before committing to them.

 

Enjoy your food and enjoy your thoughts.