Abstract
[Purpose]Functional foods are thought to strongly influence the structure and function of the brain. Previous studies have reported that brain-boosting diets may enhance neuroprotective functions. Certain foods are particularly rich in nutrients like phytochemicals that are known to support brain plasticity; such foods are commonly referred to as brain foods.[Methods]In this review, we briefly explore the scientific evidence supporting the neuroprotective activity of a number of phytochemicals with a focus on phenols and polyunsaturated fatty acids such as flavonoid, olive oil, and omega-3 fatty acid.[Results]The aim of this study was to systematically examine the primary issues related to phytochemicals in the brain. These include (a) the brain-gut-microbiome axis; (b) the effects of phytochemicals on gut microbiome and their potential role in brain plasticity; (c) the role of polyunsaturated fatty acids in brain health; and (d) the effects of nutrition and exercise on brain function.[Conclusion]This review provides evidence supporting the view that phytochemicals from medicinal plants play a vital role in maintaining brain plasticity by influencing the brain-gut-microbiome axis. The consumption of brain foods may have neuroprotective effects, thus protecting against neurodegenerative disorders and promoting brain health.
Highlights
The brain, arguably the most complex structure in the human body, can be thought of as the control tower of the body; it comprises neurons and neuroglia, which serve to selectively route signals that underlie specific cognitive functions[1]
Recent evidence indicates that modern diets may lead to metabolic diseases[6]. These findings suggest that suitable diets, which are linked to brain health and neurodegenerative disorders, are required to maintain proper focus throughout the day
Resveratrol is a powerful polyphenol, and one of the reasons why Mediterranean diets are good for intestinal and brain health is their richness in polyphenols, which have been shown to protect against neuroinflammation[17]
Summary
The brain, arguably the most complex structure in the human body, can be thought of as the control tower of the body; it comprises neurons and neuroglia, which serve to selectively route signals that underlie specific cognitive functions[1]. Cognitive functions, including learning and memory, are influenced by a variety of factors that include aging, stress, enrichments in the environment, and physical exercise[2,3,4]. We refer to this phenomenon as brain plasticity, a process in which nutrition intake plays a critical role. Recent evidence indicates that modern diets may lead to metabolic diseases[6] These findings suggest that suitable diets, which are linked to brain health and neurodegenerative disorders, are required to maintain proper focus throughout the day. It provides the energy to the depleted brain, activates cellular responses, and contributes to the JPhEyxseirccalNAuctrtitviiotyn aBniodcNhuetmri.ti2o0n1.82;02220(2;2):40(017):-001141-,0h1t8tp, :h//tdtpx:./d/doxi..odrogi/.1o0rg.2/01406.230/j4e6n3b/p.2a0n1.82.002001.0003
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