March 21, 2022

easy winter oatmeal for your brain

citrus season

When we take care of our gut health, we take care of our mental health. Our brain and gut are in constant communication, and if our brains aren’t working their best, we can have a stronger sense of this link. Since my brain injury, I can feel my brain working slower if I’m dehydrated or I’ve indulged in too many fatty foods. Once it became clear that my concussion symptoms weren’t going to resolve in a week or two like a typical concussion, I dedicated myself to eating what’s best for my brain, starting with this easy winter oatmeal for breakfast.

Our ‘belly brain’ is more formally called the enteric nervous system (ENS). The ENS contains over 100 million neurons, the second highest concentration of neurons in the body, after of course the central nervous system (CNS). ENS neurons line the entire gastrointestinal tract and control every part of digestion. The ENS works together with the CNS to respond to our environments. Something I’ve learned in my recovery is that everything in the body is connected, and guess what? Stomach issues are common symptom of stress and anxiety.

This easy oatmeal has nourished me for two concussion winters so far. Seeds are some of my favorite brain-boosting foods, full of essential nutrients, protein, healthy fats, and insoluble fiber. Chia seeds and hemp hearts (the insides of hemp seeds) are my daily go-to seeds, but flax, pumpkins, and sunflower seeds are also great choices. Along with seeds, I add raisins for their natural sweetness and shredded coconut for its texture and flavor. I love loading up on citrus in winter to brighten the dark days. Orange is the star of this healthy winter oatmeal, adding freshness, juiciness, and flavor.