Feeling exhausted and brain tired? Every day, our bodies need iron to produce healthy red blood cells, which are responsible for carrying oxygen to the brain. Yet many of us don't realise that an iron deficiency can lead to fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and a foggy brain. That's why it's important to maintain healthy levels of iron through a diet and lifestyle that supports our needs.
It’s no secret that diet plays a major role in overall wellbeing, including brain function. But did you know that your diet can also have a direct impact on the levels of iron in your body? Iron is an essential part of a healthy lifestyle, as it helps to keep your brain functioning properly. If you are looking to stay sharp, here are some tips on how to get the iron you need for optimal brain function.
First, make sure you’re getting enough iron in your diet. Lean red meat, chicken, and seafood are all excellent sources of iron. Additionally, dark leafy greens such as spinach and broccoli are high in iron too. You may want to consider adding iron-rich foods to your regular diet, or supplementing with an iron supplement if you’re not getting enough.
Second, eat foods that help your body absorb more iron. Foods like oranges, kiwi’s, grapes, pineapple, and strawberries are all great sources of Vitamin C, meat and poultry for Vitamin B12 which helps your body absorb iron more efficiently. So if you’re looking to increase your iron intake, try adding these foods to your meals.
Finally, be aware of foods that can interfere with your iron absorption. Coffee, tea, and some dairy products can all inhibit iron absorption, so it is important to either limit or avoid them when possible or for coffee lovers keep them an hour away from your iron rich foods and supplements.
It isn’t just your diet that can affect your iron levels – exercise can play a big role too. Regular exercise helps to improve circulation, which in turn can help your body absorb and retain iron more easily. If you are looking to increase your iron levels, an exercise routine that includes aerobic activities such as jogging, cycling, or swimming or Yoga can be beneficial.
In addition to helping with iron retention, exercise can also improve your overall mental wellbeing and help reduce stress. Exercise can boost your mood, as it releases endorphins and other “feel good” hormones. It can also help to sharpen your memory and focus, allowing you to perform better at work and in your studies.
But it’s important not to overdo it. Exercise can be helpful for brain health, but it’s important to take breaks and not push your body too hard. Too much exercise can actually be detrimental to your health, leading to fatigue and an increased risk of injury. So be sure to listen to your body and rest when necessary.
In addition to diet and exercise, managing stress and getting enough sleep can also help to support optimal brain function. Stress is a normal part of life, but it’s important to find ways to manage it effectively. There are many ways to cope with stress, including mindfulness, yoga, and journaling.
It’s also important to get enough sleep. Research shows anemia to be associated with insomnia which is a sleep disorder, PLMD is another sleep disorder associated with leg pain in evenings and night disturbing ones sleep. Sleep is essential for brain health, as it helps to refresh and restore your mind and body. Aim to get seven to nine hours of quality sleep each night, and avoid staying up too late or sleeping in too late.
By following these simple tips, you can support your iron levels and help keep your brain in top shape. Eating well, exercising regularly, managing your stress, and getting enough sleep are all essential for keeping your brain functioning optimally. So get started today, and you’ll soon be feeling sharper and performing better.