About Me

Hello! My name is Julia Figueiredo and I am the founder of Mind Meals, an online platform that explores the direct link between food and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP). PSP is a neurodegenerative disorder that affects a person’s mobility and concentration. Unfortunately, there is no cure for PSP and there are only a few treatment options. That is why I have decided to create Mind Meals in order to spread awareness for the illness and allow the thousands of patients throughout the world who suffer from this disease to understand that they are not alone.

      Progressive Supranuclear Palsy is caused by the abundance of tau proteins in the brain. In a healthy person’s body, the protein folds properly and maintains a stable amount. Unfortunately, for those with PSP, the tau proteins misfold, causing them to form clumps and produce at an unhealthy rate. The tau protein is found in the MAPT gene and is associated with the stabilization of microtubules. In neurons, the microtubules provide a backbone for axons and dendrites. Axons and dendrites are responsible for receiving and sending out information. If the tau proteins begin to clump and misfold, it destroys the microtubules and stops the process of axonal transport, which ultimately destroys the neurons permanently.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            The concept of PSP is very complex and there are a lot of different aspects that tie into the disease. However, after careful research, studies have shown that a series of compounds known as polyphenols have been able to inhibit the production of tau proteins. There are numerous types of polyphenols however, the two that have been shown to be more effective are curcumin and epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG). Both polyphenols are found in different types of fruits, teas, and spices which is why many neurologists encourage PSP patients to change their diets, reduce the consumption of specific sugars and fats, and increase their intake of unprocessed foods. In Mind Meals, each recipe that is posted contains one highlighted food, tea, or spice that contains one of the two polyphenols. A complete list of all foods containing curcumin and EGCG is provided below:                                                                                                                                                                                        Foods that contain EGCG:                                                Foods that contain curcumin:                                     - Black Tea                  - Cherries                                        - Tumeric                                                                          - Green Tea                 - Peaches                                        - Ginger                                                                             - White Tea                 - Plums                                            - Curry Powder                                                             - Oolong Tea               - Pears                                                                                                                                         - Cranberries               - Apples                                                                                                                   - Strawberries             - Pecans                                                                                                                                     - Blackberries             - Hazelnuts                                                                                                                                  - Avocados                  - Pistachios                                                                                                                                 - Kiwis                          - Dark Chocolate                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            A recipe will be posted regularly and some might be inspired by upcoming seasons or holidays. Additionally, throughout the majority of recipes, some ingredients are accompanied by a set of parentheses with vegan, dairy-free, and gluten-free options stated. These are substituted ingredients for those who have allergies, intolerances, or dietary restrictions.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Please keep in mind that these recipes are not a cure for PSP, they are simply provided to allow a more accessible way of maintaining a healthy lifestyle that could be encouraged by a neurologist for PSP patients. Mind Meals is meant to spread awareness and inform people about PSP. Enjoy all the recipes provided!