Brain food from the Mediteranean Coast

We know that a Mediterranean diet is excellent for our waistline but a new study published by Columbia University says this diet is also good for our brain.

The diet, which consists of fruits, vegetables, fish and olive oil has been shown to reduce the onset of Alzheimer's in patients already showing signs and also helps prevent the disease from even occurring in some cases.

Not only does the diet ward of dementia, people who consume a moderate to high amount of these foods are at a much lower risk of developing heart disease, some cancers and Parkinson's disease.

The study also says that people who were not extremely stringent in the diet still saw tremendous health improvements and a reduction in brain cognitive impairment.

The study couldn't pinpoint an exact reason why this diet is so good for the brain. But maybe it is the high fish content (they're packed with Omega-3s) or the olive oil (great for a healthy heart) and you can never go wrong with fruits and veggies.

What do you do to keep your brain healthy? What do you think about this study? Let us know.....

Hearts all around!!!!

Not only is February the month of love, it also the month of the heart.

Cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of Americans and there are small steps everyone can take to naturally reduce their risk of heart disease.

Exercise regularly, stay in your recommended weight range and reducing your stress levels are the most common ways to reduce your risk.

But in today's world there are other factors that we don't pay attention to as much. We do not eat the same as people 50 years ago. I know I enjoy a drive-thru meal every once and a while :) So we do not consume the vitamins we need from our food.

It is important to remember that daily heart health starts with what you consume. If you know you are not getting your recommended daily vitamins, incorporate at least a few of these:

• Fish oil. Even if you are an avid fish eater you might want to consider taking a small capsule daily. Cold water fish can sometimes be devoid of essential Omega 3's due to poor manufacturing and handling practice.
• Vitamins C, E and all of the Bs. These are the best for heart health (especially if your diet is a little lacking in the veges' department)
• CoQ10. If you already have high cholesterol or heart risk factors, this is one of the most important supplements.
  

What do you do to stay heart healthy? Let us know.............. Happy Heart Month!!