Powerful Antioxidants and Anti-Inflammatories:
Nutrition plays a powerful role in improving brain health. With self-reported mental wellness issues more than doubling since before the pandemic, empowering individuals with the knowledge, tools, and resources to help improve brain health is crucial. During my training at Dr. Sears Wellness Institute, and The School of Applied Functional Medicine, we learned topics that address these types of issues, including the connection with spices I think you would benefit from as well. Making simple changes such as adding antioxidant-rich, anti-inflammatory spices regularly to your meals can have a significant impact on wellbeing. I LOVE oregano, for example. According to research conducted by Dr. Daniel Amen “Dried oregano has thirty times the brain-healing antioxidant power of raw blueberries, forty-six times more than apples, and fifty-six times as much as strawberries, making it one of the most powerful brain cell protectors on the planet.”
Take a look at this list and try some tonight!
Best Spices for the Brain Turmeric – It is one of the most important spices to include in the diet. Not only is it an extremely powerful antioxidant, but it also decreases plaques in the brain, improves memory, reduces depression and anxiety. Since turmeric doesn’t have a lot of flavors and doesn’t need to be cooked, it’s easy to add to foods like sprinkling on eggs or adding on top of a salad. Cinnamon – It is an everyday spice that lowers blood sugar, and improves attention and memory. it’s easy to add to foods like oatmeal and apple sauce, or even add into tea or coffee. Oregano – Boosts blood flow to the brain and is one of the highest antioxidants of all spices. Ginger, Cayenne, and Black Pepper – Enhances memory Saffron – Has anti-depressant effect Rosemary, Thyme, and Sage – Boosts memory Garlic – Boosts blood flow to the brain Cumin Seed – Lowers stress response and improves recall Paprika – Protects neurons, reducing Alzheimer’s disease.
It's also worth noting that many of these are equally effective as an essential oil and may be even more potent for brain health when diffused. The Olfactory pathway is a direct route to the brain. Something I do often when studying or working on a client case to help boost my brain power!
