[One Thousand Characters a Day] Happy Elderly People Do Not Grow Old＜4＞

Editor's Note"Man is defined by what he eats." This is a famous phrase by the German philosopher Ludwig Feuerbach. It is widely known that the way we eat greatly affects our health, mental and physical well-being, and life expectancy. Yet, it is also undeniable that there has been little change in our eating habits. Whether 'brain-appropriate nutrition' can protect or improve our brain health remains largely unknown. The opposite?whether poor eating habits can severely damage our gray brain cells (gray matter)?is equally unclear. However, Dr. Bernd Kleine-Gunk, author of ＜Happy Seniors Do Not Age＞, states, "It is far more logical to believe that human brain function is governed by proper and balanced nutrition than the opposite perspective." Word count: 834.

Many phytochemicals appear to have the potential to systematically protect, repair, and even enhance our brain function. Several substances biochemically belong to the 'polyphenol' group. Natural polyphenols exist as phytochemicals in fruits and vegetables. Like humans, plants are threatened by bacteria, fungi, and ultraviolet rays. Therefore, plants form their own immune systems, with many polyphenols playing a role in this. The positive news is that when we consume phytochemicals, their effects are transferred to our bodies. They protect us from oxidation and inflammation, known aging factors. The protective effects of polyphenols are especially well-known through antioxidant vitamins. Hence, polyphenols are called the '21st-century vitamins.'

Among polyphenols, anthocyanins are the most effective. The deep dark blue color is a characteristic of blueberries, blackberries, and blackcurrants. Anthocyanins are stars in the 'brain food' category. The effects of blueberries, in particular, have been extensively studied. When people with impaired cognitive abilities consumed about 100 grams of blueberries daily and then underwent cognitive tests, their brain function showed significant improvement.

Another superfood beneficial for brain health is curcumin, a phytochemical from India. This substance, found in turmeric, gives Indian curry its distinctive yellow color. In the brain, curcumin exhibits typical polyphenol effects, inducing long-term antioxidant and anti-inflammatory responses. Curcumin is absorbed much better when combined with piperine (an extract from black pepper). Perhaps Indians have long known this and therefore add a lot of black pepper to their curry dishes. There was a reason for the intense spiciness.

- Bernd Kleine-Gunk, ＜Happy Seniors Do Not Age＞, translated by Kang Young-ok, Gimm-Young Publishers, 17,800 KRW

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.