By DR. RICHARD BELIVEAU
The old cliche that fish is "brain food" has been confirmed by a study showing people who regularly eat fish are at less risk of being afflicted by cognitive impairment.
People who eat poorly are at a higher risk of developing serious chronic illnesses.
An unbalanced level of certain amino acids and some essential fats, such as omega-3, can contribute to the development of many mental disorders (depression, apathy, anxiety, behavioural problems), as well as the premature decline of cognition.
Obesity is also linked to many problems targeting the brain and many recent studies have shown obese people had elevated levels of inflammatory molecules in their system that can damage neuron function. This can lead to a premature loss of cognitive function and even, in more serious cases, the early appearance of Alzheimer's.
Obese people are twice as likely to develop degeneration of cerebral function at some point in their lives. That risk can jump to seven times more likely if the excess weight is accompanied by hypertension and high cholesterol.
In a recent board study, researchers saw people who regularly ate fish had 20% less risk of showing signs of cognitive impairment that those who never at it.
ANTICANCER RECIPE
FINE HERB RATATOUILLE
11/4 cups sliced eggplant
11/4 cups sliced zucchini
4 tsp. coarse salt
Drizzle of olive oil
11/4 cups red onions, chopped
2 cloves of garlic hopped
2 cups red peppers, diced
3 1/3 cups ripe tomatoes, skinned, seeded and diced
12 leaves fresh basil, chopped
4 sprigs fresh thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and fresh ground pepper
Put eggplant and zucchini in a colander. Sprinkle with coarse salt and let drain for 30 minutes. Rinse slices in cold water and pat dry with paper towel. Cut slices into quarters.
Heat olive oil in a pot and cook onions over medium-high heat. Add garlic, zucchini and eggplant and peppers. Cook for a few minutes until peppers are tender.
Add tomatoes and fine herbs. Salt and pepper to taste. Let simmer at low heat for 30 minutes.
Makes 4 portions.
