In addition to cholesterol, plaque can build up in brain neurons, interfering with normal synapse firing. Gingko helps create new small artery capillaries to feed the brain tissue and help clear plaque. Fish oils high in DHA are the best kind of fat (most nerve tissue is fat). Lecithin with its content of phosphatidyl serene and choline is excellent brain-food. Cholesterol is required for brain and nerve health, so the more powerful cholesterol lowering drugs may end up speeding the onset of Alzheimer's or other degenerative conditions!
A stable diet providing a steady amount of blood sugar to the brain is essential. Refined carbs give a large influx of sugar to the bloodstream, spiking insulin, which takes away sugar from the blood. Foggy thinking can result with low blood sugar, as the brain demands nearly one half of the available sugar to perform its functions. Diets and low carbs can make one 'spaced out' and unable to think. Diabetes or hypoglycemia can cause this too. Slow-release, high-protein and complex carb diets help.
Exercising the brain is like working a muscle. Doing crossword puzzles, math in your head, learning a new language or skill helps the brain stay active. Tax the brain, make it work. Some people try to remember everything that was said to them the day before. Reading, writing composition and public speaking are good exercises too. For further diet and exercise information, talk to your naturopath.
