Is Milk Returning to Favour?

Many foods are know to support optimal brain function such as the healthy fats found in salmon, avocado, nuts and coconut oil. But the old standby many of us grew up with is making a come-back as a means of keeping the brain young.

Dairy may have gotten a bad rap lately but a study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, has found that the naturally occurring antioxidant glutathione is raised by a drinking milk and may lower the risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Researchers from the University of Kansas studied 60 older adults over several weeks and found that those who drank the most milk had higher levels of the antioxidant which is known to fight free radical damage in the brain. However, very few seniors meet the recommended daily intake of 3 cups per day.

One of the best ways to increase glutathione levels is to consume whey protein which contains very little lactose and may be tolerated by those who are sensitive. Other foods such as meats, poultry, eggs and quinoa may also support higher antioxidant levels in the body.

A healthy diet rich in nutrients, exercise, stress reduction as well as life long learning and brain games are also important components in promoting brain health.