We know that it is important to introduce as many vegetables and fruits into your diet as possible. But a special place among them is occupied by those that have a blue, purple and purple color.
These foods contain antioxidants and other substances necessary for the body that are important for the health of the brain and nervous system.
The brain is the center of the nervous system, it centrally controls all organs of the body, regulates sensory information and muscle activity. The brain supports the control of hormone synthesis. A healthy brain is everything for us: it allows us to understand the world around us, memorize information, learn new things, concentrate, think logically.
Blue and purple foods and your brain
If brain health has deteriorated, we experience mood imbalances (depression and anxiety), problems with attention, memory, and movement.
Blue, purple and purple plant foods contain a high concentration of antioxidants, namely those that protect the brain and nervous system from oxidative stress and inflammation due to free radical
damage.
Anthocyanins are blue-violet pigments in plant foods (antioxidant flavonoids). They have the ability to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, affecting brain cells.
What's good to know
Anthocyanins are included in the group of flavonoids - phytochemical compounds. Their positive effect on the body is to improve vascular function, blood circulation and cognitive functions.
Blueberries and strawberries slow down the risk of cognitive decline, and blueberries help strengthen memory.
Anthocyanin substances support the thinking process and memory, reducing inflammation and suppressing DNA damage in the brain.
Blueberry juice is composed of polyphenols and anthocyanins and has a bright antioxidant effect, protecting the brain from oxidative stress.
Blue and purple fruits and vegetables that are useful to include in the diet
Bilberry
The introduction of blueberries in the menu (up to 1 cup of fresh berries) helps to improve cognitive functions.
Phytochemical compounds in the composition of these berries reverse neuronal and behavioral aging
It is recommended to choose hard blueberries of uniform color. There should be no excess moisture in the berries.
Plums
Plums and prunes are composed of phenolic substances - neochlorogenic and chlorogenic acids.
Neochlorogene c-ta is able to suppress inflammation in the brain.
Chlorogenic c-ta has an antioxidant effect and is able to penetrate the blood-brain barrier, showing neuroprotective properties for the brain.
If plums need to ripen, you need to store them indoors at room temperature.
Dark grapes, raisins, blackberries, marionica are also good for brain health.
Purple cabbage
Chinese purple-colored cabbage includes more valuable substances for our body than other species: a higher concentration of phenolic acids and flavonoids in comparison with white cabbage.
Calais
The taste of this cabbage ranges from bitter/spicy to slightly sweet. The typical color of cabbage leaves is green, but its range varies from light purple to dark purple.
Purple potatoes
An excellent source of antioxidants (vitamin C and anthocyanins, phenols, flavonoids).
The product has a high concentration of vitamin B6, necessary for the activity of brain cells and the nervous system. Its function is to produce the neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine.
Other blue and purple vegetables for brain health are eggplant and purple cabbage
