By: Dr. Keith Darrow, PhD, CCC-A

Nourish Your Noggin with Nature’s Nectar!

Welcome to the tea party for your brain! Green tea isn't just a refreshing beverage; it's a potion of cognitive prowess! Let’s explore how this humble green brew can boost your brainpower with its evidence-based benefits. So, grab your favorite cup, sit back, and let's sip on some knowledge!

My published cookbook, Healthy Food Healthy Brain, is your definitive guide to doing more to ensure you stay mentally, physically and cognitively healthy by eating the right foods and making sure you feed your brain the very best, every day, every meal.

For a complimentary copy of my book, tap this link and get started!  www.brainhealthyrecipes.com.

Aromatic Ambrosia

First things first, let's talk aroma! Picture this: you hold your cup of freshly brewed green tea, and the gentle steam carries a delightful scent that tickles your senses. That very aroma isn't just a pleasant experience; it's the beginning of your cognitive journey. Studies have shown that inhaling the aroma of green tea can enhance cognitive performance, revving up your brain for the challenges ahead. So, take a deep breath and let the scent of green tea whisk you away to cognitive wonderland!

The Mighty Matcha

Ah, matcha, the vibrant green elixir that packs a powerful punch! Derived from finely ground green tea leaves, matcha is a superstar in the realm of cognitive enhancement. Packed with antioxidants, notably catechins and L-theanine, matcha promotes relaxation without drowsiness, setting the stage for optimal cognitive function. This dynamic duo stimulates alpha brain waves, fostering a state of alert tranquility, perfect for sharpening focus and enhancing creativity. So, the next time you need a mental pick-me-up, reach for that invigorating matcha latte and let your creativity soar!

Mindful Meditation in a Cup

Ever heard of mindful sipping? Well, green tea is your passport to this zen-like experience! With each sip, you're not just hydrating your body; you're also engaging in a mindful practice that calms the mind and enhances cognitive clarity. The ritual of brewing and savoring green tea promotes mindfulness, reducing stress levels and improving attention span. So, take a moment to appreciate the simple pleasure of sipping on your favorite green tea blend, and watch as your mind becomes a sanctuary of serenity and focus.

Brain Boosting Brew

Now, let's dive into the nitty-gritty of how green tea actually boosts brain power. Green tea contains a unique combination of bioactive compounds that work synergistically to support cognitive function. Catechins, particularly epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), exhibit neuroprotective properties, shielding the brain from oxidative stress and inflammation. Meanwhile, L-theanine promotes relaxation and enhances attention, resulting in improved cognitive performance. These potent compounds not only safeguard your brain but also help you stay sharp and focused, unleashing your cognitive potential with every sip!

While it’s not a green tea recipe, pecans and apples are also great for brain function, and below is an apple-pecan chicken salad recipe from my cookbook. Please feel free to let me know if you enjoy it!

Apple-Pecan Chicken Salad

Pecans are brimming with nutrients that can benefit brain function, including mono- and polyunsaturated fatty acids. Monounsaturated fatty acids, in particular, have been linked to decreased mental decline and reduced inflammation.

They're also rich in mineral magnesium, which is thought to improve memory recall and delay age-related memory loss. Pecans have great benefits for the heart. They're full of plant sterols, compounds that effectively lower cholesterol levels.

Natural compounds found in apples and other fruits may help to stimulate the production of new brain cells, which could have implications for learning and memory according to a new study by researchers at the University of Queensland, and the German Center for Neurodegenerative Diseases.

 Ingredients for the Dressing:

·      1 teaspoon of organic honey

·      ¼ cup of pomegranate juice

·      1 teaspoon of Dijon mustard

·      ¼ cup of white wine vinegar

·      ¼ cup of extra-virgin olive oil

·      Himalayan pink sea salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Place all ingredients in a jar. Secure the lid and shake well. Set aside.

Ingredients:

·      a handful of mixed greens

·      1 cup of cooked chicken breast – cut into chunks

·      ¼ cup toasted pecans

·      ¼ cup of dried cranberries

·      1/8 cup of crumbled blue cheese

·      1 Honeycrisp or Pink Lady apple – chopped

Directions:

In a small skillet, toast pecans on medium heat for about a minute until toasted. Toss occasionally. In a large bowl, add lettuce, chicken, pecans, cranberries, blue cheese, and apple. Drizzle dressing over all and serve immediately.

The Verdict

Green tea isn't just a delightful beverage; it's a brain-boosting elixir that elevates your cognitive prowess to new heights. From its tantalizing aroma to its powerhouse of antioxidants, green tea offers a plethora of evidence-based benefits for your brain. So, the next time you're in need of a mental boost, reach for that cup of green tea and let its magic unfold. Here's to sipping smarts and unlocking the full potential of your magnificent mind! Cheers!

To learn more about evidence-based benefits of green tea, go to 10 Evidence-Based Benefits of Green Tea (healthline.com).

As I bring you essential information each month about the connection between eating healthy and long term overall active aging, it is important to keep in mind that the number one way to potentially prevent dementia and cognitive decline is to FIRST TREAT YOUR HEARING LOSS!

Please remember this month and every month to treat your hearing loss and tinnitus and feed your brain for optimal performance.

And, again, don’t forget your complimentary free copy of my book! www.brainhealthyrecipes.com

To learn more about aging gracefully, treating hearing loss, and maintaining a healthy brain, please visit – www.excellenceinaudiology.org.