Our brain constitutes less than 2% of our body weight, yet it uses 20% of all the calories we consume. What we eat matters.
The brain is our most cholesterol-rich organ. It contains 25% of our body’s total cholesterol. It is also our fattiest organ, consisting of at least 16% fat. Hence, eating healthy fats such as omega-3s (wild deep sea fish, chia seeds, walnuts), olive oil and coconut oil are essential for effective brain function.
About 75% of the brain is water. This means that even a small amount of dehydration (as little as 2%) can negatively impact concentration and memory.
Sleep deprivation compromises our brain’s ability to detoxify, raises cortisol and adrenaline levels (the stress hormones), and increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease and dementia.
There are almost 160 000 km (100 000 miles) of blood vessels crammed into our skull. High blood pressure is another risk factor for dementia.
Our muscles communicate with our brain. The stronger our hand grip, the stronger our memory and mental functioning. Strength training is essential to maintain not only muscle mass but also brain mass.
For more fascinating facts about improving brain function, join me at Sydney Northern Beaches Seniors Festival — Dementia Wellness Workshop — at Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club on Wednesday 19th March from 12pm to 3pm.
This will be a life-changing experience for anyone who wants to know more about the brain and dementia. I look forward to seeing you there and answering your questions.
The event is free but bookings are essential as numbers are limited.
Light lunch will be provided.
Address: Queenscliff Surf Life Saving Club, North Steyne — opposite Collingwood St, Manly NSW 2095
For more information on the festival click here.
Complete this form if you would like to attend: GHA Dementia Wellness Workshop – Booking Request Form
Feel free to share this Health-e-Byte to anyone who would enjoy a brain-boosting afternoon in Manly.
Photo credit: I took this photo from my beach shack on South Stradbroke Island, where I recently spent a peaceful weekend. It was a completely different brain-boosting experience from the jet ski (see last week’s Health-e-Byte): relaxing, reflective and meditative. Our brain needs both stimulation and stillness.
