by Melissa Chichester
You may even feel that way yourself.
Here are three reasons your brain loves summer – and a few supplements that can support cognitive health.
There’s no denying it – summer is hot! And when it’s hot, we not only want to drink more water, but we also want to drink more water. This makes your brain happy because water helps it function better. You’ll feel more alert and energetic when you keep up with hydration.
Consider this from the Women’s Brain Health Initiative: “Drinking water can improve one’s brain health by simply increasing blood flow and oxygen to the brain”
And what’s crazier is that when you are dehydrated, your brain can shrink and actually pull away from your skull. This can cause a dehydration headache – so make sure you drink enough water daily, more if you’re sweating a lot or playing outdoor sports.
>>3 Ways to Increase Your Water Intake
Lacking a sunny disposition? Soaking up the sunshine is one thing that can help. Numerous studies have shown that sunshine is a mood booster. This is because it triggers serotonin production, a chemical messenger that your body makes. Plus, when sunlight hits your skin, it triggers Vitamin D production. Vitamin D is an essential nutrient that aids in calcium absorption and supports healthy bones and teeth.*
>>Simple Solutions to Summer’s Little Troubles
When the weather is nice, we tend to spend more time outside. And spending time getting fresh air has cognitive benefits.
In a compilation of studies noted by the American Psychological Association, they note in one of the findings:
“Participants who listened to nature sounds like crickets chirping and waves crashing performed better on demanding cognitive tests than those who listened to urban sounds like traffic and the clatter of a busy café.”
Spending time outdoors may also help reduce stress and improve your mood.
For extra support throughout the year as the seasons change, certain supplements may help.
Neuro Superfood: This brain support supplement features marigold, a source of lutein and zeaxanthin. It also provides red grape powder and wild blueberry extract to provide plant-based antioxidant support.* Neuro Superfood also includes Lutemax® 2020 – clinically shown to increase levels of Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor (BDNF). BDNF is a natural growth factor important for the maintenance of a healthy brain.*
L-Theanine: A natural phytochemical found in Japanese green tea, l-theanine is a non-essential amino acid that can be absorbed across the brain.* Non-essential amino acids are ones the body can produce.
Ginkgo biloba: This herb is known for its distinct two-lobed, fan-shaped leaves. It helps support memory – especially occasional mild memory problems associated with aging.* It also provides you with the supplemental nutrition you need to support brain function.*
Supporting brain health in the summer and throughout the year is a daily task. Making healthy lifestyle choices to support brain health can have a big impact on your life. Spending time outdoors, getting fresh air, and staying hydrated are some of the most simple things you can do. Your brain will thank you!
