Promising studies recommend that mental exercises, like playing video games, coupled with a balanced diet can protect the brain and prevent mental disorders. Despite the bad reputation of some video games, a new article published in the American Psychologist suggests that aside from focusing on the negative effects, people also need to consider the positive aspects of video games.
Through the years, video games have become more complex, realistic, and social in nature. Various studies in the last five years have recognized the benefits experienced by children and adolescents playing these new, interactive games. Isabela Granic together with her co-researchers at Radboud University in the Netherlands, recommends that not only do the modern video games provide young individuals with undeniable cognitive, emotional and social experiences; they can also potentially enhance mental health and well-being.
In addition to this, people nowadays shouldn’t worry about going overboard with gaming since most gaming companies take initiatives to promote a responsible gaming environment. An example is, Alchemy Bet, developer for mobile gaming app pocket fruity, cooperates with GambleAware, an organization that provides information to help people make informed decisions about their gaming. This way, people can still enjoy playing online games in a sensible manner.
It goes without saying that aside from video games, a nutritious diet can also promote positive mental health. According to Fernando Gómez-Pinilla, a UCLA professor of neurosurgery and physiological science, food is similar to a pharmaceutical compound that affects the brain. This proves that a change in diet is a feasible approach for improving cognitive abilities, protecting the brain from damage and neutralizing the effects of aging.
Anyone can maintain a strong and functioning brain with video games and healthy food. Here is a nourishing recipe you can prepare for your family to promote an improved healthy state of mind.
Grilled Salmon with Mustard & Herbs
Ingredients:
2 lemons, sliced thinly,
1 lemon, sliced into wedges for garnish
20-30 sprigs of mixed fresh herbs, wherein 2 tablespoons of it are chopped and divided
1 clove garlic
1/4 tsp salt
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 pound center-cut skinned salmon
Instructions:
First step is to preheat the grill to medium-high. Place 2 9-inch pieces of durable foil on top of each other and then lay on a rimless baking sheet. In two layers, assemble the lemon slices on the center of the foil. Place herb sprigs extensively over the lemons. Using one side of a chef’s knife, crush the garlic with salt to create a paste. Put in a small dish and add in mustard and the leftover 2 tablespoons of chopped herbs. Apply the mixture on both sides of the salmon and then put the salmon on the herb sprigs.
Slip the foil including the salmon off the baking sheet and onto the grill without unsettling the salmon-lemon stack. Cover the grill and cook the fish for 18 to 24 minutes or until it is opaque in the center. Using oven mitts cautiously move the foil and salmon back onto the baking sheet. Slice the salmon into 4 parts and serve with lemon wedges. Dispose of herb sprigs and lemon slices.
*This post is by a contributing writer.