Nutrition/Hydration
Nutrition and hydration play a vital role in physical and mental wellbeing. Food and drink are the building blocks of physical and mental health, creating an environment for our brains to thrive. Gavin Flood made the observation that “the body is a precondition for experience” and can thus be considered a physiological premise for cognition. Whereas diets rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins can help reduce inflammation and support healthy brain function, diets high in processed foods and sugar can lead to inflammation and damage to brain cells, increasing the risk of cognitive decline. Furthermore, hydration maintains brain health by flushing toxins out of our body and delivering nutrients and oxygen to the brain. Staying hydrated can improve memory and cognitive performance, boost mood, and reduce the risk of cognitive decline. There is one more step, by practicing mindfulness and gratitude when we eat and drink, we can foster connection between the body and the environment that sustains it, amplifying their nourishing effects.
USEFUL LINKS
NIH / NIDDK Diet and Nutrition Links