Nutritionists unveil beverages and concoctions that boost cognitive health
In the quest to maintain a healthy brain and reduce the risk of dementia, establishing a morning routine that supports brain health is a powerful strategy. This routine can include sipping on various teas and herbal infusions, each offering unique benefits for brain health, memory, and stress reduction.
Green tea, rich in antioxidants like epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) and nicotinamide (a form of vitamin B3), is often associated with strengthening brain health. Its balanced amount of caffeine and L-theanine promotes mental clarity and calm without the jittery effects of coffee.
White tea, particularly An Ji White, is high in theanine, providing calming effects and supporting focus and sustained mental energy without bitterness or overstimulation.
Chrysanthemum green tea blends, containing Japanese sencha, peppermint, chrysanthemum, and rose petals, offer a unique combination. Peppermint, despite not containing caffeine, can stimulate the brain and improve memory, alertness, and cognitive performance through its menthol content.
Herbalists often recommend teas made from rosemary, turmeric, valerian, and lion’s mane. These herbs work by supporting dopamine regulation, neuroplasticity, and gut-brain communication, contributing to improved memory, reduced stress, and overall brain and nervous system health.
Moreover, many teas combine antioxidants and mild stimulants to protect brain cells from oxidative damage, promote focus, mental clarity, calm, and reduce stress. Enjoying these teas also contributes to stress relief through relaxation rituals and optimal hydration for cognitive function.
Chamomile tea, known for its calming properties, promotes brain health by helping improve sleep and inducing feelings of calm. This, in turn, supports overall cognitive function.
Research suggests that around 35% of dementia cases are caused by modifiable risk factors, including hypertension, obesity, diabetes, smoking, physical inactivity, and social isolation. Adopting habits that support brain health, such as a balanced diet, regular exercise, and mindfulness practices, can help minimize the risk.
Gary Wenk, professor of psychology and neuroscience at Ohio State University, emphasizes the importance of never skipping breakfast, as the brain needs a lot of glucose in the morning. Several studies have studied the effects of skipping breakfast on cognition and memory, both short and long term, with theories suggesting that the brain needs fuel to function, and skipping breakfast may affect energy consumption in the brain, leading to negative effects on short-term memory.
In conclusion, incorporating green tea (for antioxidants and neuron support), white tea (for calming the mind), herbal blends (for stress reduction), and specific herbs such as lion’s mane, rosemary, turmeric, and valerian into your daily routine can be beneficial for enhancing brain health, memory, and reducing stress naturally.
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