Aarushi Bhadury

Navratri 2024: Swap These Fried Foods With Healthier Alternatives This Navratri

Navratri Fried Food (Credit-Canva)

<span>Navratri</span> is a time to celebrate and enjoy a good time with your family. The food is a major part of the celebrations. It a festival of nine nights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. While it's a time for fasting and spiritual practices, it doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the joy of delicious food. Many traditional Navratri dishes are deep-fried, which can be unhealthy. But fear not! There are countless ways to enjoy the flavours of Navratri while embracing healthier cooking techniques.

Here are some healthier alternatives to popular fried Navratri dishes. By making these simple swaps, you can indulge in the festive flavours without compromising your health. 

<h2><span rel="noindex">Healthier Alternatives For</span> Navratri Fried Food</h2>

Eating healthy cam be quite boring for people, especially during festive season, but instead of eating same food, here are healthier alternatives to try! 

Instead of deep-frying samosas, which can be high in unhealthy fats and calories, opt for baking them in a preheated oven. Baking samosas uses significantly less oil, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste. You can still enjoy the crispy exterior and flavourful filling of samosas while reducing your calorie intake. 

Traditionally, papdi for chaat are deep-fried, but you can make them healthier by toasting them in a dry skillet or oven. This method eliminates the need for excess oil, making the papdi lighter and less greasy. You can still enjoy the delicious combination of flavours in chaat without the added unhealthy fats. 

<h3>Baked <span rel="noindex">Aloo Tikki</span></h3>

Deep-frying aloo tikki can be unhealthy due to the high oil content. A healthier alternative is to bake them in a preheated oven. Baking aloo tikki allows the potatoes to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can still enjoy the flavourful and satisfying texture of aloo tikki without the excess oil. 

Grilling sabudana tikki is a healthier option compared to deep-frying. Grilling allows the tikki to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. 

Baking pakoras is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Baking allows the pakoras to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. 

Using an air fryer to cook kachori is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Air frying uses hot air to cook the kachori, requiring much less oil. This method allows you to enjoy the crispy texture of kachori while significantly reducing your calorie and fat intake. 

Baking jalebi is a healthier option compared to deep-frying. Baking allows the jalebi to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavor, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. 

Baking bhajiya is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Baking allows the bhajiya to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. 

Baking mathri is a healthier option compared to deep-frying. Baking allows the mathri to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. 

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navratri fried foodeating

roasted papdi chaattraditionally

healthier alternatives for

aloo tikki

Navratri 2024

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Navratri is a time to celebrate and enjoy a good time with your family. The food is a major part of the celebrations. It a festival of nine nights, is celebrated with great enthusiasm and devotion. While it's a time for fasting and spiritual practices, it doesn't mean you have to sacrifice the joy of delicious food. Many traditional Navratri dishes are deep-fried, which can be unhealthy. But fear not! There are countless ways to enjoy the flavours of Navratri while embracing healthier cooking techniques.Here are some healthier alternatives to popular fried Navratri dishes. By making these simple swaps, you can indulge in the festive flavours without compromising your health. Healthier Alternatives For Navratri Fried FoodEating healthy cam be quite boring for people, especially during festive season, but instead of eating same food, here are healthier alternatives to try! Baked SamosasInstead of deep-frying samosas, which can be high in unhealthy fats and calories, opt for baking them in a preheated oven. Baking samosas uses significantly less oil, making them a healthier option without sacrificing taste. You can still enjoy the crispy exterior and flavourful filling of samosas while reducing your calorie intake. Roasted Papdi ChaatTraditionally, papdi for chaat are deep-fried, but you can make them healthier by toasting them in a dry skillet or oven. This method eliminates the need for excess oil, making the papdi lighter and less greasy. You can still enjoy the delicious combination of flavours in chaat without the added unhealthy fats. Baked Aloo TikkiDeep-frying aloo tikki can be unhealthy due to the high oil content. A healthier alternative is to bake them in a preheated oven. Baking aloo tikki allows the potatoes to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can still enjoy the flavourful and satisfying texture of aloo tikki without the excess oil. Grilled Sabudana TikkiGrilling sabudana tikki is a healthier option compared to deep-frying. Grilling allows the tikki to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. Baked PakorasBaking pakoras is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Baking allows the pakoras to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. Air-Fried KachoriUsing an air fryer to cook kachori is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Air frying uses hot air to cook the kachori, requiring much less oil. This method allows you to enjoy the crispy texture of kachori while significantly reducing your calorie and fat intake. Baked JalebiBaking jalebi is a healthier option compared to deep-frying. Baking allows the jalebi to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavor, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. Baked BhajiyaBaking bhajiya is a healthier alternative to deep-frying. Baking allows the bhajiya to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. Baked MathriBaking mathri is a healthier option compared to deep-frying. Baking allows the mathri to cook evenly while developing a crispy exterior. You can use a light coating of oil or ghee for flavour, but the overall fat content will be significantly lower than deep-frying. 

navratri 2024: swap these fried foods with healthier alternatives this navratri

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Couscous Is More Processed Than You Think—But It's Still Healthy. Here's Why

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Once considered purely a North African delicacy, <span>couscous</span> is a processed grain that offers nutritional benefits in form of selenium and plant-based <span>protein</span>. However, this grain contains gluten, making it not suitable for everyone. So, should we consume couscous?

<h2>Nutritional Benefits of Couscous</h2>

One of the standout nutrients in couscous is selenium. A single cup (157 grams) offers over 60% of the recommended daily intake. Selenium is a crucial mineral with several health benefits—it acts as a powerful antioxidant, supports cellular repair, and reduces inflammation. It also plays a key role in maintaining thyroid health by aiding hormone production and protecting the thyroid gland from damage. Additionally, selenium may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering oxidative stress and preventing plaque buildup in arteries.

The selenium content in couscous could also contribute to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Findings from a review involving more than 350,000 participants indicate that higher selenium levels in the blood—primarily from dietary sources—may offer protection against specific cancers. Notably, selenium deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, and a combination of adequate selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin E may lower lung cancer risk among smokers.

Couscous may give your immune system a boost, thanks again to its selenium content. Selenium enhances immunity by reducing oxidative stress and supporting immune cell function. It also assists in regenerating vitamins C and E, which play a role in strengthening immune responses.

Protein makes up around 16–20% of the human body and is essential for metabolic processes. Couscous provides about 6 grams of plant-based protein per one-cup serving. While it is not a complete protein—meaning it doesn't contain all essential amino acids in adequate amounts—it can be paired with other plant-based proteins to form a balanced vegetarian or vegan diet. Diets high in plant-based protein have been linked to lower risks of stroke, cancer, and heart disease-related deaths.

Often seen as a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, couscous is made from whole-wheat flour and is quick to prepare. Most supermarket versions are pre-steamed and dried; they only require the addition of boiling water or broth followed by fluffing with a fork. Light and fluffy when cooked, couscous easily absorbs the flavours of other ingredients and pairs well with salads, meats, vegetables, or other grains like <span>quinoa</span> and brown rice.

<h2>Things You Should Consider Before </h2>

Couscous is made from semolina, a product of durum wheat, and therefore contains gluten. This makes it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.

Could Raise <span>Blood Sugar</span> Levels

With 36 grams of carbohydrates per cup and minimal protein, couscous may cause blood sugar spikes—particularly a concern for those with diabetes or insulin resistance. Combining it with protein-rich foods or those high in soluble fibre can help mitigate this effect.

While couscous contains small amounts of fibre, potassium, and other nutrients, it falls short compared to other whole grains like quinoa, oats, or brown rice. Foods such as avocados, bananas, and potatoes are richer sources of potassium, which supports healthy blood flow and may reduce the risk of stroke.

Couscous, with its high selenium content, offers several health benefits, including immune support and a potential reduced risk of cancer. However, it may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with gluten intolerance or blood sugar concerns. For those who tolerate gluten, couscous remains a convenient, versatile grain option worth including in a balanced diet.

Diet & Nutrition

quinoa

Couscous

Blood Sugar

Protein

Breakfast

Once considered purely a North African delicacy, couscous is a processed grain that offers nutritional benefits in form of selenium and plant-based protein. However, this grain contains gluten, making it not suitable for everyone. So, should we consume couscous?Nutritional Benefits of CouscousRich in SeleniumOne of the standout nutrients in couscous is selenium. A single cup (157 grams) offers over 60% of the recommended daily intake. Selenium is a crucial mineral with several health benefits—it acts as a powerful antioxidant, supports cellular repair, and reduces inflammation. It also plays a key role in maintaining thyroid health by aiding hormone production and protecting the thyroid gland from damage. Additionally, selenium may help reduce the risk of heart disease by lowering oxidative stress and preventing plaque buildup in arteries.May Help Lower Cancer RiskThe selenium content in couscous could also contribute to a reduced risk of certain cancers. Findings from a review involving more than 350,000 participants indicate that higher selenium levels in the blood—primarily from dietary sources—may offer protection against specific cancers. Notably, selenium deficiency has been associated with an increased risk of prostate cancer, and a combination of adequate selenium, vitamin C, and vitamin E may lower lung cancer risk among smokers.Boosts the Immune SystemCouscous may give your immune system a boost, thanks again to its selenium content. Selenium enhances immunity by reducing oxidative stress and supporting immune cell function. It also assists in regenerating vitamins C and E, which play a role in strengthening immune responses.Good Source of Plant-Based ProteinProtein makes up around 16–20% of the human body and is essential for metabolic processes. Couscous provides about 6 grams of plant-based protein per one-cup serving. While it is not a complete protein—meaning it doesn't contain all essential amino acids in adequate amounts—it can be paired with other plant-based proteins to form a balanced vegetarian or vegan diet. Diets high in plant-based protein have been linked to lower risks of stroke, cancer, and heart disease-related deaths.Very Easy to PrepareOften seen as a healthier alternative to traditional pasta, couscous is made from whole-wheat flour and is quick to prepare. Most supermarket versions are pre-steamed and dried; they only require the addition of boiling water or broth followed by fluffing with a fork. Light and fluffy when cooked, couscous easily absorbs the flavours of other ingredients and pairs well with salads, meats, vegetables, or other grains like quinoa and brown rice.Things You Should Consider Before High in GlutenCouscous is made from semolina, a product of durum wheat, and therefore contains gluten. This makes it unsuitable for individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.Could Raise Blood Sugar LevelsWith 36 grams of carbohydrates per cup and minimal protein, couscous may cause blood sugar spikes—particularly a concern for those with diabetes or insulin resistance. Combining it with protein-rich foods or those high in soluble fibre can help mitigate this effect.Lower in Some Key NutrientsWhile couscous contains small amounts of fibre, potassium, and other nutrients, it falls short compared to other whole grains like quinoa, oats, or brown rice. Foods such as avocados, bananas, and potatoes are richer sources of potassium, which supports healthy blood flow and may reduce the risk of stroke.The TakeawayCouscous, with its high selenium content, offers several health benefits, including immune support and a potential reduced risk of cancer. However, it may not be suitable for everyone—especially those with gluten intolerance or blood sugar concerns. For those who tolerate gluten, couscous remains a convenient, versatile grain option worth including in a balanced diet.

couscous is more processed than you think—but it's still healthy. here's why

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Thinking about taking supplements to boost your well-being quest? You're not the only one. As worldwide sales of supplements are expected to exceed $230 billion by 2027, they've become the face of preventive health. But experts are now sounding the alarm about a less obvious risk—the silent effect they have on your liver.

From daily vitamin pills to herbal powders that claim to deliver everything from healthy skin to improved concentration, supplements are frequently perceived as benign. But the reality is, when taken excessively or without instruction, they may be doing more damage than good—particularly to one of your body's most critical organs: your liver.

Your liver is your body's biochemical sorting center. It sifts through everything from food to poisons to medicines—and, yes, supplements.

As per Dr. Karan Rajan, a well-known UK surgeon and educator with more than 1.7 million followers on Instagram, even natural supplements undergo liver metabolism. "That means your liver breaks them down with enzymes, which impacts how hard it has to work," he says. When your liver is overwhelmed, your liver cannot detoxify the body effectively, and there is a higher risk of inflammation, scarring, or worse—acute liver injury.

In a recent case cited by Dr. Rajan, a female patient developed organ failure following consumption of supplements aimed at hair and nail growth. "Just don't turn your liver into a science fair project gone wrong," he cautioned in a now-famous video.

According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), dietary supplements comprise:

<strong>Vitamins</strong>: A, C, D, B-complex

<strong>Minerals</strong>: Magnesium, calcium

<strong>Herbal compounds</strong>: Elderberry, ginger

<strong>Botanical powders</strong>: Green powders, turmeric blends

<strong>Probiotics</strong>: Live bacteria or yeasts that aid digestive system health

Supplements have been a daily fill for many people. Be it vitamin C as an immunity boost during the flu season or B12 for that energy drive, individuals look toward pills in anticipation of a good meal. Without proper checks and balances, the practice tends to go downhill fast into becoming a health risk.

The risk isn't necessarily in the supplement itself—but in the amount you take and how it affects other substances in your body.

"More isn't always better," warns Dr. Rajan. "Excessive doses of even simple vitamins like vitamin A can cause liver damage or brain pressure."

Vitamin D overdose: Can increase blood levels of calcium, leading to kidney issues and changed mental status.

Unregulated herbal mixes: May create unknown chemical interactions, especially if you’re taking multiple at once.

Drug interactions: Supplements like St. John’s Wort can interfere with antidepressants or blood thinners.

With so many supplements flooding the market, choosing a safe one can feel like a gamble. Flashy packaging and bold health claims are not enough.

Dr. Rajan suggests checking for third-party certifications. Labels such as (e.g., USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab) mean that the product has been independently tested to be of good quality, purity, and accuracy of ingredient descriptions. Although no certification can absolutely ensure 100% safety, it significantly lessens your risk of taking something potentially toxic to the liver.

<h2>How to Take Supplements the Right Way?</h2>

So does it mean you must abandon supplements altogether? No. Properly planned, supplements can be useful. Here's how to do it safely and responsibly:

<h4>1. Talk to a Healthcare Professional First</h4>

Don't start adding anything to your routine without first talking to a physician or registered dietitian. They can check whether you actually need it, particularly if taking prescription meds such as statins, antidepressants, or anti-epileptics.

Beginning a new supplement? Have your doctor perform liver function tests (LFTs). This establishes a baseline and allows you to track how your liver reacts over time.

This FDA and NIH-supported database contains in-depth case reports on how drugs and supplements impact the liver. Supplements graded Grade A, B, or C need to be treated with additional caution.

<h4>4. Don't Mix Multiple Supplements</h4>

Taking more than one herbal supplement or taking high doses of several vitamins at once can have synergistic toxicity. Unless prescribed by a professional, keep it simple and concentrated.

Supplements aren't bad in themselves—but taking them without knowing how they'll affect your liver might be very bad indeed, sometimes causing irreversible damage. As consumer interest increases, so should awareness and prudence.

diet & nutrition

liver health supplements

supplement liver damage

too many supplements side effects

safe supplement use

natural supplement risks

supplement overdose symptoms

supplement interactions liver

Thinking about taking supplements to boost your well-being quest? You're not the only one. As worldwide sales of supplements are expected to exceed $230 billion by 2027, they've become the face of preventive health. But experts are now sounding the alarm about a less obvious risk—the silent effect they have on your liver.From daily vitamin pills to herbal powders that claim to deliver everything from healthy skin to improved concentration, supplements are frequently perceived as benign. But the reality is, when taken excessively or without instruction, they may be doing more damage than good—particularly to one of your body's most critical organs: your liver.Your liver is your body's biochemical sorting center. It sifts through everything from food to poisons to medicines—and, yes, supplements.As per Dr. Karan Rajan, a well-known UK surgeon and educator with more than 1.7 million followers on Instagram, even natural supplements undergo liver metabolism. "That means your liver breaks them down with enzymes, which impacts how hard it has to work," he says. When your liver is overwhelmed, your liver cannot detoxify the body effectively, and there is a higher risk of inflammation, scarring, or worse—acute liver injury.In a recent case cited by Dr. Rajan, a female patient developed organ failure following consumption of supplements aimed at hair and nail growth. "Just don't turn your liver into a science fair project gone wrong," he cautioned in a now-famous video.What Constitutes a Supplement?According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), dietary supplements comprise:Vitamins: A, C, D, B-complexMinerals: Magnesium, calciumHerbal compounds: Elderberry, gingerBotanical powders: Green powders, turmeric blendsProbiotics: Live bacteria or yeasts that aid digestive system healthSupplements have been a daily fill for many people. Be it vitamin C as an immunity boost during the flu season or B12 for that energy drive, individuals look toward pills in anticipation of a good meal. Without proper checks and balances, the practice tends to go downhill fast into becoming a health risk.The risk isn't necessarily in the supplement itself—but in the amount you take and how it affects other substances in your body."More isn't always better," warns Dr. Rajan. "Excessive doses of even simple vitamins like vitamin A can cause liver damage or brain pressure."        View this post on Instagram            A post shared by Dr Karan Rajan (MRCS MBBS BSc) (@drkaranrajan)]]>Other risks that are known include:Vitamin D overdose: Can increase blood levels of calcium, leading to kidney issues and changed mental status.Unregulated herbal mixes: May create unknown chemical interactions, especially if you’re taking multiple at once.Drug interactions: Supplements like St. John’s Wort can interfere with antidepressants or blood thinners.With so many supplements flooding the market, choosing a safe one can feel like a gamble. Flashy packaging and bold health claims are not enough.Dr. Rajan suggests checking for third-party certifications. Labels such as (e.g., USP, NSF, or ConsumerLab) mean that the product has been independently tested to be of good quality, purity, and accuracy of ingredient descriptions. Although no certification can absolutely ensure 100% safety, it significantly lessens your risk of taking something potentially toxic to the liver.How to Take Supplements the Right Way?So does it mean you must abandon supplements altogether? No. Properly planned, supplements can be useful. Here's how to do it safely and responsibly:1. Talk to a Healthcare Professional FirstDon't start adding anything to your routine without first talking to a physician or registered dietitian. They can check whether you actually need it, particularly if taking prescription meds such as statins, antidepressants, or anti-epileptics.2. Get Your Blood Work DoneBeginning a new supplement? Have your doctor perform liver function tests (LFTs). This establishes a baseline and allows you to track how your liver reacts over time.3. Consult ExpertThis FDA and NIH-supported database contains in-depth case reports on how drugs and supplements impact the liver. Supplements graded Grade A, B, or C need to be treated with additional caution.4. Don't Mix Multiple SupplementsTaking more than one herbal supplement or taking high doses of several vitamins at once can have synergistic toxicity. Unless prescribed by a professional, keep it simple and concentrated.Supplements aren't bad in themselves—but taking them without knowing how they'll affect your liver might be very bad indeed, sometimes causing irreversible damage. As consumer interest increases, so should awareness and prudence.

the dangers of taking too many supplements for your liver

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31-Year-Old Woman Dies From Dementia After Critical Early Signs Were Missed; How Prevent Early Memory Decline

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We've all rolled our eyes at our parents' dinner table lectures, “Eat your veggies, they'll make you smarter!” But what if they were right all along? Think about it, can a bowl of leafy greens really protect your memory? Could that sugary snack or burnt barbecue actually speed up brain aging? From the power of omega-3-rich fish to the silent damage from ultra-processed foods, we're breaking down the science behind food and cognitive health. 

When it comes to <span>brain function</span>, Harvard Health Publishing explains that following a strategic and healthy diet is key to a healthy brain. A diet filled with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and healthy fats rather than foods that are filled with saturated fats and added sugars. 

<h2>Can Food Slow Down Your Brain Aging? </h2>

Leafy greens like kale spinach collards and broccoli are rich in nutrients like vitamin K that is necessary for brain health and slow down cognitive decline. Fatty fish also has omega-3 fatty acids that have been shown to lower the levels of beta-amyloid in our blood, which is a protein that clumps in our brain and cause Alzheimer's disease. 

However, what are some foods you should avoid for your brain health? 

Dr. Ramon Velazquez, a neuroscientist and advisor at Mind Lab Pro, has highlighted five common food categories that could be silently damaging to our brain over time. He explained that the dietary choices we make in our youth can significantly influence our cognitive function as we age. 

Those quick and easy meals and snacks often have lots of extra stuff that isn't good for you. Dr. Velazquez warns that eating a lot of these foods might make your brain age faster. He says they can cause swelling that hurts the connections between your brain cells. He suggests eating whole foods like fruits, veggies, and plain meats instead. 

Fish can be good for your brain, but some big fish that live a long time can have too much mercury in them. Mercury is a poison that can hurt your brain. Dr. Velazquez says it can get into your brain and mess with how it works, which can cause problems with thinking later on. It's better to avoid fish like shark and swordfish. 

That tasty char on grilled food makes bad components called AGEs. Dr. Velazquez says these AGEs can cause swelling in your brain and might even be linked to the stuff found in people with Alzheimer's. He suggests cooking food in ways that don't burn it, like steaming or boiling. 

While Dr. Velazquez warns about burnt food, another expert says it's okay sometimes if you mostly eat a balanced diet with lots of good stuff. They say enjoying a little burnt food now and then is fine if the rest of your diet is healthy. 

Dr. Velazquez says that some fake sweeteners might change the good bugs in your stomach in a way that causes swelling. This swelling could then hurt your brain and maybe even increase the chance of brain problems later. He suggests trying natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead and trying to eat less sweet stuff overall. 

<h4><span rel="noindex">Too Much Alcohol</span> </h4>

While some people like to drink to relax, too much alcohol can really hurt your brain. Dr. Velazquez says that drinking a lot for a long time can actually make your brain shrink. It especially hurts the part of your brain that helps you make decisions and think clearly. So, it's best to drink only a little, if at all.

Diet &  Nutrition

too much alcohol

Common Foods That Damage Brain Function

food for brain health

foods you should avoid for brain health

Food that Slow Down Your Brain Aging

food that damaging to our brain

Brain Function

We've all rolled our eyes at our parents' dinner table lectures, “Eat your veggies, they'll make you smarter!” But what if they were right all along? Think about it, can a bowl of leafy greens really protect your memory? Could that sugary snack or burnt barbecue actually speed up brain aging? From the power of omega-3-rich fish to the silent damage from ultra-processed foods, we're breaking down the science behind food and cognitive health. When it comes to brain function, Harvard Health Publishing explains that following a strategic and healthy diet is key to a healthy brain. A diet filled with whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes and healthy fats rather than foods that are filled with saturated fats and added sugars. Can Food Slow Down Your Brain Aging? Leafy greens like kale spinach collards and broccoli are rich in nutrients like vitamin K that is necessary for brain health and slow down cognitive decline. Fatty fish also has omega-3 fatty acids that have been shown to lower the levels of beta-amyloid in our blood, which is a protein that clumps in our brain and cause Alzheimer's disease. However, what are some foods you should avoid for your brain health? Dr. Ramon Velazquez, a neuroscientist and advisor at Mind Lab Pro, has highlighted five common food categories that could be silently damaging to our brain over time. He explained that the dietary choices we make in our youth can significantly influence our cognitive function as we age. Super-Processed Foods Those quick and easy meals and snacks often have lots of extra stuff that isn't good for you. Dr. Velazquez warns that eating a lot of these foods might make your brain age faster. He says they can cause swelling that hurts the connections between your brain cells. He suggests eating whole foods like fruits, veggies, and plain meats instead. FishFish can be good for your brain, but some big fish that live a long time can have too much mercury in them. Mercury is a poison that can hurt your brain. Dr. Velazquez says it can get into your brain and mess with how it works, which can cause problems with thinking later on. It's better to avoid fish like shark and swordfish. Burnt Food That tasty char on grilled food makes bad components called AGEs. Dr. Velazquez says these AGEs can cause swelling in your brain and might even be linked to the stuff found in people with Alzheimer's. He suggests cooking food in ways that don't burn it, like steaming or boiling. While Dr. Velazquez warns about burnt food, another expert says it's okay sometimes if you mostly eat a balanced diet with lots of good stuff. They say enjoying a little burnt food now and then is fine if the rest of your diet is healthy. Fake Sweeteners Dr. Velazquez says that some fake sweeteners might change the good bugs in your stomach in a way that causes swelling. This swelling could then hurt your brain and maybe even increase the chance of brain problems later. He suggests trying natural sweeteners like honey or maple syrup instead and trying to eat less sweet stuff overall. Too Much Alcohol While some people like to drink to relax, too much alcohol can really hurt your brain. Dr. Velazquez says that drinking a lot for a long time can actually make your brain shrink. It especially hurts the part of your brain that helps you make decisions and think clearly. So, it's best to drink only a little, if at all.

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