Unlock the secret of longevity: A neurosurgeon’s hearty recipe that fends off dementia
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As we age, our thoughts often turn to longevity and maintaining a sharp, active mind.
It's a common goal in the GrayVine community to live life to the fullest, and that includes taking care of our brain health.
What if we told you that the secret to a robust memory and a vibrant mind could be found right in your own kitchen?
Dr. Jonathan J. Rasouli, a board-certified spinal neurosurgeon at Northwell Health, understands the importance of brain health not only in his professional life but also in his personal habits.
He's generously shared a recipe that's not just a feast for your taste buds but also a boon for your brain.
This isn't just any stew; it's a concoction brimming with ingredients that have been scientifically shown to support brain health and potentially ward off dementia.
The star players in this dish are turmeric, spinach, and lentils, each bringing their unique benefits to the table.
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2018 study highlighted that daily curcumin supplements could improve memory and mood in older adults, possibly by reducing amyloid and tau accumulation in the brain, which are markers associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Spinach is a verdant powerhouse, rich in vitamin K, lutein, and beta carotene. These nutrients are vital for protecting brain cells from damage and staving off cognitive decline.
Garlic, more than just a flavor enhancer, is a superfood with sulfur compounds that may protect the brain from disease and aging.
Olive oil, a staple in the Mediterranean diet (often associated with longevity), helps reduce brain inflammation, which is a known factor in cognitive decline.
Lentils are the unsung heroes of brain health. A single cup provides 90% of your daily recommended intake of folate, essential for neurotransmitter regulation, mood, and mental clarity. Plus, they offer a steady supply of glucose, the preferred fuel for your brain cells.
Now, let's get to the recipe that Dr. Rasouli swears by—a curry lentil stew that's not only “super tasty” but also incredibly easy to prepare. A big batch on Sunday can last you the entire week, perfect for a quick snack or a nourishing meal.
Curry Lentil Stew with Spinach and Turmeric
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried red lentils (fiber and plant-based protein)
- 2 cups spinach (rich in folate and vitamin K)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory properties)
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp coriander
- 1 small diced onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
Source: Food Impromptu / Youtube.
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add turmeric, cumin, and coriander, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
3. Stir in lentils and broth, then simmer for 20 minutes until lentils are tender.
4. Add spinach in the final 5 minutes of cooking to retain its nutrients and vibrant color.
5. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for an added burst of brightness and vitamin C.
Remember, taking care of your brain can be as delightful as it is wise. With Dr. Rasouli's hearty stew, you're not just cooking up a meal—you're crafting a legacy of health for your mind.
Add another set of ingredients to your diet to avoid Alzheimer's through this neurosurgeon's guide for the dinner you should be having for your health.
Have you tried incorporating brain-healthy foods into your diet? Do you have any favorite recipes that are both delicious and beneficial for cognitive function? We invite you to share your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments below!
It's a common goal in the GrayVine community to live life to the fullest, and that includes taking care of our brain health.
What if we told you that the secret to a robust memory and a vibrant mind could be found right in your own kitchen?
Dr. Jonathan J. Rasouli, a board-certified spinal neurosurgeon at Northwell Health, understands the importance of brain health not only in his professional life but also in his personal habits.
He's generously shared a recipe that's not just a feast for your taste buds but also a boon for your brain.
This isn't just any stew; it's a concoction brimming with ingredients that have been scientifically shown to support brain health and potentially ward off dementia.
The star players in this dish are turmeric, spinach, and lentils, each bringing their unique benefits to the table.
Dr. Jonathan J. Rasouli, a neurosurgeon, recommends a curry lentil stew with spinach and turmeric for its brain health benefits. Image source: Andrea / Pixabay.
Turmeric, with its active compound curcumin, is celebrated for its anti-inflammatory properties.
A 2018 study highlighted that daily curcumin supplements could improve memory and mood in older adults, possibly by reducing amyloid and tau accumulation in the brain, which are markers associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Spinach is a verdant powerhouse, rich in vitamin K, lutein, and beta carotene. These nutrients are vital for protecting brain cells from damage and staving off cognitive decline.
Garlic, more than just a flavor enhancer, is a superfood with sulfur compounds that may protect the brain from disease and aging.
Olive oil, a staple in the Mediterranean diet (often associated with longevity), helps reduce brain inflammation, which is a known factor in cognitive decline.
Lentils are the unsung heroes of brain health. A single cup provides 90% of your daily recommended intake of folate, essential for neurotransmitter regulation, mood, and mental clarity. Plus, they offer a steady supply of glucose, the preferred fuel for your brain cells.
Now, let's get to the recipe that Dr. Rasouli swears by—a curry lentil stew that's not only “super tasty” but also incredibly easy to prepare. A big batch on Sunday can last you the entire week, perfect for a quick snack or a nourishing meal.
Curry Lentil Stew with Spinach and Turmeric
Ingredients:
- 1 cup dried red lentils (fiber and plant-based protein)
- 2 cups spinach (rich in folate and vitamin K)
- 1 tsp turmeric powder (anti-inflammatory properties)
- 1/2 tsp cumin
- 1/2 tsp coriander
- 1 small diced onion
- 2 cloves minced garlic
- 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil (EVOO)
- 3 cups vegetable broth
Source: Food Impromptu / Youtube.
Directions:
1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions and garlic until fragrant.
2. Add turmeric, cumin, and coriander, cooking for another minute to release the flavors.
3. Stir in lentils and broth, then simmer for 20 minutes until lentils are tender.
4. Add spinach in the final 5 minutes of cooking to retain its nutrients and vibrant color.
5. Serve with a squeeze of lemon for an added burst of brightness and vitamin C.
Remember, taking care of your brain can be as delightful as it is wise. With Dr. Rasouli's hearty stew, you're not just cooking up a meal—you're crafting a legacy of health for your mind.
Add another set of ingredients to your diet to avoid Alzheimer's through this neurosurgeon's guide for the dinner you should be having for your health.
Have you tried incorporating brain-healthy foods into your diet? Do you have any favorite recipes that are both delicious and beneficial for cognitive function? We invite you to share your thoughts, experiences, and questions in the comments below!
