Whether you’re looking to support optimal memory, focus or cognition,
maintaining brain health is essential for daily life. Like all areas of health,
the food you eat may have an effect on your brain.
Fish
The EPA and DHA content in fish help support brain health by promoting
mental focus. Fatty fish contain vitamin D, which also supports the brain.
Anchovies, sardines and fatty fish like salmon are all great choices.
Grass-fed beef makes the cut due to its iron content. Iron is well known for
helping your body transport oxygen to the brain, which will help you perform
mental tasks more efficiently and effectively.
Yolk found in eggs helps your brain because of its choline content. Choline is a neurotransmitter that helps promote healthy brain function. Eggs are also beneficial because the yolks contain cholesterol, which is needed to support brain health.
Beets have nitrates, which help promote blood flow and promote mental performance.
Avocados
Seventy-five percent of the fat in an avocado is monounsaturated fat. It
promotes acetylcholine production, which leads to learning and optimal memory
support.
Blueberries deliver optimal memory support due to their anthocyanin content. Other dark red and purple fruits and vegetables also benefit brain health.
The lycopene in this juicy vegetable also helps support healthy brain
function.
Something as easy
as adding more spinach, kale, collards and mustard greens to your diet could
help slow cognitive decline and keep the brain healthier for a longer period of
time, according to new research.
Oats
Foods rich in carbohydrates such as oats contain glucose that act as fuel
for your brain. As oat carbohydrates break down slowly, so your brain will stay
active for hours.
Nuts and seeds contain fatty acids like omega-3 and alpha-linolenic acid
(ALA). These fats deliver optimal memory support and help your brain process
sensory information such as taste and touch. You can eat walnuts or pumpkin
seeds as a snack, or add chia, hemp or flaxseed to your favorite smoothie.
Beans contain B vitamins, which are known for supporting brain health. Beans
also break down slowly like oats, so your brain will stay active longer.
Sage
Your body uses acetylcholine to support learning. Your body breaks down
acetylcholine, but sage will help prevent such a breakdown, which allows for
optimal brain function.
Known best as the yellow spice found in curry dishes, turmeric promotes
brain health thanks to its curcumin content.
Coconut Oil
Like nuts, coconut oil contains fats that nourish the brain, support optimal
memory and promote mental energy.
Olive Oil
Olive oil contains polyphenols, antioxidants that support optimal memory,
learning and other cognitive functions.
Dark chocolate contains flavonols, which promote blood flow and optimal
memory support. Cacao contains 15 times more antioxidants than blueberries, so
make sure to go as dark as possible when it comes to chocolate.
