Fit Tip: Beware of Bad Brain Foods

Monday Morning Fit Tip:
BEWARE OF BAD BRAIN FOODS

The #1 Brain-Harming Food: Fructose

In a 2012 UCLA study published in the Journal of Physiology, researchers found that a diet high in fructose over time can damage your memory and learning ability.  This high-fructose corn syrup (HFCS) diet can also cause the storage of extra belly fat, insulin resistance and possibly lead to type-2 diabetes.

The average US resident consumes a LARGE quantity of fructose without even thinking about it from soft drinks, sports drinks, juices, cakes and candies.  There is even HFCS added to store-bought salad dressings, breads, cereals, and even condiments like ketchup.

Also note that agave syrup (aka, agave nectar) which is marketed as a “healthy” sweetener as well, is one of the most concentrated forms of processed fructose in sweeteners as well.

Doesn’t fruit contain sugar?

Yes, natural whole fruits do contain fructose, but generally contain MUCH smaller quantities of fructose than you would consume in a sweetened juice drink, soft drink or sweetened junk foods.  Also, the antioxidants and fiber found in most whole fruits counteract any negative effects of the fructose.

What can you do?

Make your own food and drinks!  Not only will it save you money, but you’ll be consuming fresher, healthier meals.  Even small changes can make a big difference:

• Make homemade salad dressings from your favorite olive oil and vinegar with added spices
• Instead of sweet tea, try unsweetened iced tea with lemon.  Fresh lemon juice has even been shown to control blood sugar response from a meal…another bonus!
• Drink water with lime for a sweet change.
• If you use a lot of ketchup, look for an all-natural brand or try using hot sauce which generally doesn’t have sweetener.

Questions or comments?  Have a topic to suggest for next week?  Comment below!

Kathie Brown

Certified NASM and AFAA Personal Trainer. Over 20 years experience. Specializes in weight loss, athletes and women body building and leaning out. Crossfit athlete, trains and competes in Crossfit competitions. Took the L1 Crossfit course and completed the judges course. Enjoys working with all levels and body types and loves seeing her clients get stronger and feel confident.