Everyone knows the phrase: “A man is what he eats.” When mentioning it, most people associate it with the body’s need for quality food and a balanced diet to be healthy. Apart from our physical health, however, the way we eat is especially important for the health of the brain and its activity.
A new study published in Nature Mental Health shows that a balanced diet is associated with better brain health. It includes basic food groups – vegetables, fruits, cereals, nuts, seeds, legumes, dairy products, eggs and fish.
According to the study, a moderate and varied diet is also associated with better cognitive functions and even greater amounts of gray matter in the brain.
The scientists behind the study from the University of Warwick, England, also emphasize how important it is to introduce healthy eating at an early age.
“To encourage the development of a healthy balanced diet, both families and schools need to offer a diverse range of nutritious meals and cultivate an environment that supports their physical and mental health,” said Dr. Feng, the study’s lead author.
To come to the conclusion about the relationship between nutrition and brain function, scientists conducted a study among 181,990 people from the United Kingdom. Their eating habits were analyzed against a number of factors, including cognitive function, blood counts and genetics.
Each participant’s food preferences were collected through an online questionnaire, which the team of scientists categorized into 10 groups (including fruit, meat, alcohol).
People were divided into four groups. The first consumed more low-carb foods, the second were vegetarians, the third consumed more protein but less fiber, and the fourth ate a balanced diet.
According to the findings, participants in the latter group had better mental health and better cognitive function compared to those in the first three groups.
The study also states that people can improve their brain health by changing to a more balanced diet. By gradually reducing their sugar and fat intake, they will naturally begin to choose healthier foods.
Genetic factors also contribute to the link between brain health and diet, experts say. However, Dr. Feng emphasizes the role of public policy in promoting affordable healthy eating options.
“As our choices can be influenced by socio-economic status, it is extremely important to ensure that this does not prevent people from building a healthy and balanced diet,” said the professor, quoted by the Independent.
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