There’s enough evidence and scientific research that support a healthy diet for a sound body and mind. A recent study not only substantiates this, but also specifically identifies Mediterranean diet as being key to keeping a healthy brain through old age. If we’re not careful with the food we eat, our brain will suffer as we get older. Thanks to a recent research, now we know that adding Mediterranean food like olive oil, salad, and more fruits helps conserve our brain into old age.
As we age, our brains get smaller; but if we keep our brain healthy, the shrinkage will amazingly be slower. According to research, bigger brains have more resistance against common brain diseases like Alzheimer’s disease and other forms of dementia. More series of experiments and researches are being considered by experts to further support this.
Vocabulary:
substantiate – to show that something is true, or to support an idea with facts
conserve – to keep and protect from waste, loss, or damage; preserve
shrinkage – the act or process of becoming smaller
resistance – the ability not to be affected by something
dementia – a disease or condition that can affect older people; this results in the loss of mental abilities, such as the ability to think, reason, and remember things
True or False:
- That a healthy diet leads to a sound body and mind is backed by enough evidence and research.
- According to a research, Mediterranean diet can help protect the brain through old age.
- Even if we’re not careful with what we eat, our brains will be fine as we get older.
- Our brains increase in mass as we get older.
- Older people with lower brain shrinkage are more prone to brain diseases.
Express your opinion:
- In addition to a healthy diet, what do you think are other factors that can help keep our brains healthy as we age?
- Do you think people who are better at solving puzzles have healthier brains? Discuss.
- Give examples of every day activities that are good for the brain.
- If you were to choose between an excellent analytical skills and an outstanding memory, which would you choose? Discuss.
- Do you think not having a good conversation for a long time can make a person dull? Explain.
Defend your argument:
- “The brain is wider than the sky.” – Emily Dickinson
- “Humor is by far the most significant activity of the human brain.” – Edward de Bono
- “The root of all health is in the brain. The trunk of it is in emotion. The branches and leaves are the body. The flower of health blooms when all parts work together.” – Kurdish saying