Our brain is a factory of nerve cells that control and coordinate your emotions, thoughts, behaviors, and movements. Basically, it’s the highway that links every part of our body into one system.
However, many people tend to take their brain’s health for granted. This can be problematic because your brain tends to deteriorate over time, affecting your concentration, memory, and other mental functions.
Thus, make sure that your brain gets the proper nutrition it needs to perform various mental tasks. In this blog post, you will learn more about the best food to boost your memory and other brain functions.
1. Fatty Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids are the champion when it comes to building membranes around the brain cells. These unsaturated fats help improve the brain’s neurons, the basic building blocks of our brain, which transmit information to different cells in the body.
Oily or fatty fish are primary sources of the said healthy fats that can minimize beta-amyloid’s blood levels. This type of protein causes clogging in the brain, which can result in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
To get enough Omega-3 fatty acids for your brain, eat salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines at least twice per week. Nuts, soybeans, and other seeds are also a good source of the said unsaturated fat.
2. Dark Chocolate
Experts believe that dark chocolates can improve the brain’s cognitive function, processing speed, and memory, most especially among adults.
Notably, a bar of dark chocolate made of cacao contains flavonoids. This antioxidant combats oxidative stress, which can trigger cognitive decline and cause various brain diseases associated with aging. The said antioxidant also stimulates blood vessel and neuron growth and blood flow in the brain.
3. Berries
Similar to dark chocolates, these fruits are rich in antioxidants that are good for your brain. Research also shows that flavonoids, the berries’ natural pigments, can help delay age-related memory decline. Other antioxidants include caffeic acid, catechin, quercetin, and anthocyanin.
Add strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, mulberries, and blackcurrants to your shopping list to increase plasticity.
4. Coffee
As most people all know, a cup of coffee can help you stay focus and alert. It has been a popular concentration aid that impedes adenosine production, a substance that can make an individual feel sleepy.
Furthermore, many studies suggest that caffeine can elevate the brain’s capacity to process information. It can also curtail the risks of developing stroke, cognitive decline, Alzheimer’s disease, and Parkinson’s disease.
5. Walnuts
Indeed, nuts have always been associated with brain health. Nonetheless, walnuts have alpha-linolenic acid (ALA) that can improve cognitive functions, especially among adults.
When the said omega-3 fatty acid enters the body, it is converted into omega-3 DHA and EPA, suitable for maintaining normal brain development.
6. Avocados
Avocados have monosaturated fats that are good for the brain, helping reduce the risk of cognitive decline. Other sources of the said fats are soybeans, canola oils, sunflower, flaxseed, chia seeds, cashews, and almonds.
7. Whole Grains
Having a whole-grain breakfast like brown rice, barley, bulgur wheat, and oatmeal can boost your brain. This type of food helps fuel the brain by supplying the right amount of glucose. It’s also a good source of Vitamin E, which is considered an important antioxidant.
8. Green Vegetables
It’s no surprise that leafy vegetables are linked to better brainpower and can slow down cognitive decline.
To get the right amount of Vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene, including kale, collards, spinach, and broccoli in your diet.
Conclusion
After learning what food can help preserve mental sharpness, it’s time to take the leap and be more conscious about what you put in your mouth. Your brain is an important asset that you should always prioritize, regardless of your busy schedule.
