ENIS 3

1. By Michael Scanlon | Posted June 12, 2007 at http://www.lumosity.com/blog/five_foods_for_/|
It’s hard to keep all the diet news straight… What should I
eat to keep my brain healthy?”
A complete and balanced diet is probably the most sound
advice, but some specific types of food are especially good
for brain health. Here are a few of the best:
Fish: The original “brain food” contains lots of omega-3
fatty acids and fish oils, especially cold water fish like
salmon and cod. Omega-3s are beneficial in a number of
ways, including promoting neuronal growth, improved
cholesterol, and fortification of myelin sheaths which
facilitate communication between neurons.
Vegetables: This is a great source of antioxidants, which
may reduce the risk of developing cognitive impairment by diminishing oxidative
stress. Spinach, Brussels sprouts, broccoli, and cauliflower are among the top
candidates.
Fruits: Like vegetables, fruits are rich in antioxidants. However, fruit tastes better.
Some of your healthiest options are blueberries, blackberries, cranberries,
strawberries, raspberries, plums, avocados, oranges, red grapes, red bell peppers,
cherries and kiwis.
Water: Be sure to get enough to keep your body and brain hydrated. Dehydration
can cause a headache now, and can lead to long-term neuronal damage sustained
from elevated stress hormones.
Chocolate: Last (and arguably least beneficial) is cocoa beans, which contain the
flavanol epicatechin and antioxidants. Dark chocolate is best, and avoid candy bars
with lots of added sugars. Also, recent research suggests that chocolate can
improve memory.
FILED UNDER: BRAIN HEALTH, TRAINING TIPS
Reading Exercises for ENIS Level 3

2. Read the article on brain food, and decide if the following
statements are TRUE (T) or FALSE (F).
T F Omega-3 can easily be found in fish.
T F Salmon and cod lack* Omega-3.
T F Omega-3 is important because it helps neurons communicate.
T F Antioxidants can reduce the risk of cognitive problems.
T F A great source of antioxidants is the red meat.
T F Cauliflowers lack great amounts of antioxidants.
T F Among the fruits that contain antioxidants we have the berries.
T F Water prevents stress hormones.
T F Dehydration does not affect your brain.
T F Dehydration can cause headaches.
T F Cocoa beans also have antioxidants.
T F Chocolate is no good for your memory.
T F The best type of chocolate for your brain is the dark one.
*lack ≠ have
Cod
Match the words on the left with definitions on the right.
1 advice _____ direct
2 antioxidants _____ related to mental processes
3 beneficial _____ a recommendation or suggestion
4 brain food _____ brain cells
5 cocoa beans _____ that is good for you, with no negative results
6 cognitive _____ nourishment that is good for your brain
7 dehydration _____ the seeds inside the cocoa pod
8 neurons _____ when your body loses water
9 straight _____ substances that prevent you from getting old quickly
Cocoa Pod
Reading Exercises for ENIS Level 3