Interpreting is one of the most stressful jobs there is. So how do we make sure we stay on top of our game? One of the ways to do that is by eating healthy.
The term superfood has been used to describe a foodstuff that contains a lot of beneficial substances such as vitamins and antioxidants, or that offer some form of protection, like helping to reduce inflammation, having antimicrobial or antifungal properties.
Here are seven superfoods for a healthy brain!
1. Water
There’s nothing nicer than some tasty mineral water when you are thirsty! And also when you’re not – by the time you feel thirsty, you may already be slightly dehydrated. Drink good quality, filtered water. Ideally we should all be drinking mineral water directly from its source in the mountains. Tap water is often full of chlorine, fluoride and other undesirable substances that act as endocrine disruptors and cause all sorts of ‘mysterious’ symptoms down the line. You can make your own mineral water or electrolyte drink by adding lemon juice and a quarter teaspoon of sea salt to a large glass of sparkling water. The resulting lemonade will not be salty or sour, but perfectly refreshing.
2. Cocoa
Cocoa is high in antioxidants, it enhances mood, protects the skin from UV damage, boosts cardio-vascular health and benefits the nervous system. Moderation is key though: 1-2 ounces of cocoa a day are enough to lower blood pressure, reduce blood clots, improve skin, sharpen the mind and slow down ageing. Trouble is, cocoa often comes in combination with sugars and fats that create different effects altogether!
3. Broccoli
Broccoli & other cruciferous vegetables contain phytochemicals, antioxidants, minerals and fibre. That may not sound too sexy but you will quickly see lots of beneficial effects for the body and the brain!
4. Berries
Berries contain the most powerful antioxidants. They fight cancer cells, reduce inflammation, improve memory, support healthy skin and gums. They are rich in vitamin C, collagen, B-vitamins and minerals. Did you know that they are easy to grow at home, in planters?
5. Eggs
Eggs (organic) are a great source of protein and Omega-3, vitamin A, E and beta-carotene – and of good fats, too. Eggs fell out of grace because of the food industry’s low-fat campaign. They are back in favour now with functional medicine practitioners and nutritional therapists. Don’t be afraid of eggs (unless you have an egg allergy)!
6. Avocado
Avocados contain 20 essential nutrients and also help absorb other fat-soluble nutrients. They contain B vitamins, potassium, vitamins K and E, Omega-3s; their fatty acids increase the good cholesterol HDL and help protect cells from free radicals damage. A very versatile fruit with a neutral taste – great for making vegan deserts as well as in savoury dishes. The downside to avos is that growing them requires a lot of water.
7. Cultured dairy
Cultured dairy (kefir, amasai). Best made with organic milk from grass-fed cows. Contains highly absorbable whey protein, vitamin D3, calcium, vitamin K2, B-vitamins and Omega-3 fatty acids. It improves digestion, boosts your immunity, reduces inflammation, it even promotes weight loss. Healthy, delicious probiotics; just make sure you read the label carefully and buy the one without any added sugars.
What are your favourite superfoods? Let us know in the comments.
Images: Wesual Click / Unsplash; ronymichaud / Pixabay; allybally4b / Pixabay; Hans Ripa / Unsplash; Alex Block / Unsplash; Peggychoucair / Pixabay; coyot / Pixabay; Anshu A / Unsplash
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