Brain health is the least focused on aspect of health until memory loss happens.  Often, we pay attention to looking physically attractive, emotionally stable, and mentally sound forgetting that the brain is the center of all operations and must be well nurtured. 

The brain is one of the largest and most complex organs in the human body.  It is made up of more than 100 billion nerves that communicate in trillions of connections called synapses.  This 3-pound organ is the epitome of intelligence, the ultimate interpreter of our senses, the initiator of body movement, and the controller of behaviour.  It is the embodiment of what truly defines our humanity. 

Perfect synchronization is what defines the activities of the brain.  The 3 basic units include;

1. Forebrain- this is the largest and most highly developed part of the brain.  It primarily includes the cerebrum which is the source of intellectual activities.  Also, it holds the memories, allows you to plan, imagine and think
2. Midbrain- the uppermost part of the brain stem.  It is responsible for controlling some reflex actions as well as eye movements and other voluntary movements
3. Hind brain-it involves the upper part of the spinal cord, brain stem, and cerebellum.  The main role is to control respiration and heart rate whereas the cerebellum coordinates movement and is involved in routine movements

A healthy brain is necessary for longevity and present life.  Therefore, sustaining brain health over time is important as it allows one to maximize their ability and independence.  Identifying a healthy brain is not an uphill task.  The following characteristics can act as pointers;

1. Learning new things
2. Calm mind
3. Sleeping well
4. Strong memory
5. Ease in making decisions
6. Good gut health
7. Strong grip
8. Eating well
9. Having a fit body
10. Good body balance
11. Good relationships
12. Having emotions under control

The functionality of the brain changes with age.  It is interrupted by neurological disorders and impacted by diet.  We are what we eat because food has a ripple effect on brain functionality.  One research conducted deduced that the consumption of processed foods in children resulted in brains that are 10% smaller and a reduced IQ (Intelligence Quotient) by 7 points.  How then can we maintain brain function?

1. Mental stimulation through mental involving activities helps improve neurogenesis (new neurons synthesis) which facilitates learning and memory
2. Physical exercise helps in the neurogenesis process, improves cholesterol levels, reduces mental stress and increases oxygen supply in the brain
3. A Mediterranean diet. This diet encourages the consumption of water, vegetables, oily fish rich in Omega 3 oils, fruits such as blueberries which are high in antioxidants and avocadoes that have MUFAs, nuts like walnuts which resemble the brain and spices such as turmeric which improves the brain’s oxygen levels.  Eggs can also be included because they are rich in choline.  The diet will also help maintain a healthy gut
4. Maintain good blood pressure readings.  High blood pressure in midlife increases the risk of cognitive decline in old age
5. Maintain a recommended blood sugar reading since diabetes increases the risk of dementia
6. Improve your HDL (High-Density Lipoproteins) levels since this will regulate your bad cholesterol which increases the risk of dementia
7. Avoid head injuries
8. Have meaningful social networks
9. Proper stress management techniques
10. Getting enough and quality sleep

The brain is a powerhouse because major roles like speech, motion, learning, and memory rely on it.   We ought to serve it for it to serve us. Choose to live the moment; explore, continue to learn, and ditch technology once in a while.  The brain needs this and breath in fresh air.   Also, incorporate our range of herbal infusions that are rich in polyphenols and fiber-rich flours in your diet to help boost your brain functionality.