Food For The Brain.....

Like our body, our brain, too needs proper nourishment to perform at its optimum level. Here are some of the important foods that our brain requires to perform at its best:

1. Water: Each and every function of our brain is electric in nature. And water is a good conductor of electricity. So, a hydrated brain always performs better than a partially dehydrated brain. One should have about 8 glasses of water every day to enable the brain to perform at its maximum potential.
2. Oxygen: Generally, after a big meal, people feel sleepy, because the oxygen needed by the brain is being utilized by the body to digest the food. Hence, it is advisable to have smaller meals at frequent intervals. Also Deep Breathing Techniques and Yogic Breathing Techniques like Pranayama, help in improved oxygen utilization in the brain.
3. Protein: Protein is needed by the brain for making the neurotransmitters, which are responsible for transmitting the impulses within the brain, i.e. they are messengers that carry message from neuron to neuron.
4. Carbohydrate: Carbohydrate is required by our brain as it enhances the absorption of tryptophan, an essential amino acid.
5. Fat: Our brain cells are covered by myelin sheath, which is made up of fat and omega-3 fatty acids.
6. Vitamins and Minerals: Vitamins such as B complex and minerals such as magnesium and manganese produce energy, vitamins A, C and E preserve memory, while sodium, potassium and calcium facilitate the thinking process of the brain.
The three neurotransmitters, vital for brain functioning, found in our food are:

1. Acetylcholine: Responsible for memory, found in egg yolk, peanuts, meat, milk, milk products, fish, broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower.

2. Dopamine: It is responsible for movement, attention and learning. Dopamine-rich food includes fish, nuts and soy products.

3. Serotonin: A hormone of happiness. Lack of it can cause depression and an excess can induce sleep. Food sources are pasta, starchy vegetables, cereals and bread.