The CEO and Brain Health

CEOs make important decisions everyday that affect an entire company. Setting the direction for where a company is headed requires lots of brainpower; however, many of the habits that some CEOs exhibit have a huge impact on cognitive performance and brain health. From lack of sleep, poor dietary habits, stress, lack of exercise, and smoking, these habits can severely affect decisions that a CEO makes.

While getting more sleep, getting enough exercise, reducing stress¸ and putting an end to smoking are so important in promoting brain health, eating the right kinds of foods will also go a long way in protecting the brain. There are five super foods in particular that I would recommend to keep the brain healthy and strong.

• Blueberries - Blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia.
• Wild Salmon - These deep water fish are rich in Omega 3s, which help to protect against cognitive decline.
• Nuts and seeds - Nuts and seeds are rich in Vitamin E, which also helps to protect against cognitive decline. There are a wide variety of nuts to choose from including: Brazil nuts, hazelnuts, walnuts, and almonds. Chia seeds, flaxseeds, and sunflower seeds do just as much to protect the brain.
• Avocadoes - This fruit promotes healthy blood flow, which contributes to a healthy brain.
• Whole grains - Whole grains such as quinoa, bulgur, and farro help promote good blood flow to the cardiovascular organ system, which includes the brain.

Brain health is crucial for a CEO. Feeding the body the right kinds of brain healthy foods could mean the difference between a good decision and a great one. Feed your body well, and it no doubt feeds your mind.

Salmon with Avocado Salsa

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds wild salmon fillets (make sure its wild and not farm raised. Much healthier) 
• 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon salt, divided
• 3/4 teaspoon chili powder, divided
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, sliced into quarters
• 1 cup diced avocado
• 1 tablespoon minced shallots
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice

1) Preheat oven to 500 degrees. Cut fish into four pieces, leaving skin on; rinse and pat dry. Place fish skin side down on a baking sheet. Rub with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then sprinkle with 1/4 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon chili powder.

2) Reduce oven temperature to 275 degrees. Place salmon in oven on lowest rack and roast 6-14 minutes, so that centers of thickest parts are translucent when cut into with a knife.

3) In a medium bowl, stir together remaining salt, chili powder, and olive oil with tomatoes, avocado, shallots, cilantro, and lemon juice. Remove salmon from over, transfer to plate, and serve.