Brain Food: What a Psychologist Eats Daily

You know the saying "you are what you eat"? Turns out, it's especially true for our brains. Newsweek sat down with Chartered Psychologist Kimberley Wilson to find out what she munches on to keep her brain sharp. "I start my day with some green, leafy veggies," Wilson shared. "Studies show that older folks who eat these daily have brains that are 11 years younger! " The secret? Two nutrients called lutein and zeaxanthin, known for eye health but also thought to protect our brains from age-related decline. Wilson doesn't stop at greens. She loves her berries, especially blueberries. They're packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, all great for brain function. Plus, a high-fiber diet, which berries help with, can reduce the risk of dementia. Exercise is also key for Wilson. "About five days a week, I mix cardio and resistance training. " Cardio keeps brain blood vessels flexible, while resistance training boosts growth factors that support brain cells. Sleep is another priority. "I use earplugs, eye masks, and keep my room dark," she said. Lastly, Wilson values her social life, noting that it reduces loneliness and stress, which can harm the brain. If you're struggling with healthy habits, Wilson suggests training your brain to eat better. She discusses these ideas on her podcast Stronger Minds and will be talking more about diet and brain health at the New Scientist Live event.