I loved learning and being a student. Although I’m no longer in the lucky position of learning new things on a daily basis, it’s very important to me that I stay as sharp as possible. But a new study reveals that being deficient in this nutrient can cause oxidative damage to your brain, resulting in significant decline in cognitive performance and memory. It’s also the same one that The New York Times calls “the most talked-about and written-about supplement of the decade.” Can you guess what it is?
…it’s Vitamin D, folks!
A new study by the researchers at the University of Kentucky shows that Vitamin D deficiency leads to free radical damage in the brain. This causes decline in both learning new information and recalling memories. Previously, low Vitamin D levels were associated with Alzheimer’s disease. Vitamin D deficiency is particularly problematic for older people, but according to The New York Times most people in the U.S. don’t get enough of the stuff–and they very rarely meet all their requirements from diet.
We get most of our Vitamin D from staying in the sun without SPF protection. Staying outdoors during the warmer months with no sunblock (except the face, which should always be protected) for about 5-10 minutes at a time, 2-3 times a week should build up your supply for the year. But if you’re like me and feel concerned about your D levels, try adding a glass or two of fortified non-dairy milk to your diet. 1 cup of Blue Diamond Almond Breeze, for instance, has 25% of your daily recommended value.
Also in Healthy Eating: 6 Surprising Benefits of Leafy Greens
5 Reasons Why You Should Be Eating Almonds
Best Mood Boosting Foods for Happiness and Calm
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