Beat Brain Drain

Another good reason to lose weight is that it may improve your memory and concentration.  The latest research shows that if you’re looking to improve brain health and become a better decision maker, losing weight is key.

Scientists have known all along that overweight and obese people are at greater risk for memory problems and many other cognitive disabilities, but recent studies are confirming that weight loss does improve brain health.  It’s good to know that if your memory is suffering due to excess weight, weight loss will improve it.

It’s been proven that being overweight is linked to many other cognitive deficits such as Alzheimer’s disease, dementia and stroke.  Obesity affects many physiological mechanisms that have adverse effects on the brain.  Hypertension, high cholesterol and Type II diabetes are just a few of the several health conditions resulting from being overweight.

Taking care of your body means taking care of your brain. Losing weight by eating a healthy, well-balanced diet and making permanent lifestyle changes will do you and your body plenty of good.  The healthiest way to lose weight is neither crash diets nor bursts of exercise.  Also diets that severely restrict calories or the types of food ‘allowed’ can lead you to be deficient in the nutrients and vitamins your body needs.  The body likes slow and steady changes. Small changes can make a big difference and you’re more likely to stick them.

Below are some easy and effective tips to lose weight and get brain healthy.

1. Eliminate all of the “whites”. White flour, white sugar, white rice and white potatoes.
2. Don’t drink your calories.
3. Eat healthy fats. Wild fish, nuts, seeds, olive oil and avocados.
4. Eat lean protein. Turkey and chicken breast, wild fish, tofu, beans, etc.
5. Eat whole grains. Quinoa, brown rice, millet.
6. Journal your food and exercise daily.
7. Exercise daily.