If you're a fish-phobe (or vegetarian) who's worried about brain health, we've got great news for you! Fish isn't the only food linked to mental fitness according to researchers... asparagus can do the trick, too!
According to RealAge (a site geared at helping us stay young and healthy as we grow old), if you want to keep your mind sharp, you should consider making the folate-rich veggie a regular part of your diet. Here's why:
In a recent study of 2,200 people age 65 and over, low levels of folate in the blood and high levels of homocysteine were linked with greater memory problems. Excess homocysteine was also associated with cardiovascular disease and stroke. On the other hand, elevated blood folate levels and decreased blood homocysteine levels were associated with better memory function.
So, get plenty of folate rich foods (like asparagus) and you'll protect against memory deficits. Plus, when you increase your folate intake, you automatically help keep the homocysteine in check, potentially helping to prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke.
According to studies, getting a total of 700 micrograms of folate per day in food and supplements can make your body's "real age" as much as 1.2 years younger.
Asparagus has 190 micrograms of brain-boosting folate per one-half cup serving. Other good sources of folate include artichokes, black-eyed peas, and fortified orange juice and cereals.
| Need help rejuvenating your spirit? Call now! | |