Certain foods will boost your brain and memory, so consuming these items is essential as your brain is the control center of your body. Your brain keeps your heart beating and lungs breathing, and this also allows you to move, feel and think.
For these reasons, it is a must that you keep your brain healthy and in peak working condition, so incorporate the following foods into your diet:
- Fatty fish
Salmon, trout and sardines are examples of fatty fish, and these are considered brain foods because they are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. Your brain uses omega-3s to build brain and nerve cells, and these fats are necessary for learning and memory. Omega-3s also slow age-related mental decline and help prevent Alzheimer’s disease.
- Coffee
Believe it or not, coffee is good for you because caffeine and antioxidants – the main components in this drink – can help support brain health. Caffeine will have several positive effects on the brain, including improved mood, increased alertness and sharpened concentration. Coffee can also offer some protection against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.
- Blueberries
This fruit delivers anthocyanins, a group of plant compounds with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. These will protect you against oxidative stress and inflammation, which are conditions that can contribute to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases. Studies show that the antioxidants in blueberries can accumulate in the brain to help improve communication between brain cells. Sprinkling them on your breakfast cereal, enjoying them as a snack or adding them to your smoothie will help delay brain aging and improve your memory.
- Turmeric
Curcumin is the active ingredient in turmeric and can cross the blood-brain barrier so it can directly enter the brain and benefit the cells there. It is a potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory compound that can help ease depression, improve your memory, and help new brain cells grow.
- Broccoli
This vegetable is packed with powerful plant compounds and is very high in vitamin K, linked to better memory and cognitive status. Broccoli contains several compounds that have potent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
- Pumpkin seeds
These contain effective antioxidants that protect the brain and body from free-radical damage. Additionally, pumpkin seeds are also an excellent source of magnesium, iron, zinc and copper, all of which are important for brain health.
- Dark chocolate
Flavonoids, caffeine and antioxidants are brain-boosting compounds found in dark chocolate and cocoa powder. The flavonoids can help protect the brain, and eating dark chocolate can boost both your memory and mood.
- Nuts
Those who eat nuts regularly may have a sharper memory than those who do not, and the consumption of nuts is also linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline in older adults. Nuts contain nutrients including healthy fats, antioxidants and vitamin E, all of which will positively affect brain health.
- Oranges
Eating one orange can provide you with almost all the vitamin C you need daily. Vitamin C will help prevent medical decline, which is very important for brain health as higher levels of vitamin C in your blood can improve focus, memory and attention. Additionally, vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant that can help fight off the free radicals that can damage brain cells. Vitamin C can also protect against conditions like Alzheimer’s disease.
- Eggs
Eggs contain several nutrients tied to brain health, including folate, choline and vitamins B6 and B12. These nutrients and B vitamins are essential for regulating mood and promoting proper brain function and development.
- Green tea
The caffeine in green tea will boost brain function and improve alertness, performance, memory and focus.
Get Back on Track
Healthy foods will positively affect your overall health, and UpMeals can help you get on track. Our meal kits will ensure you eat the best foods, and we will take care of all the cooking for you—so that you can focus on enjoying life’s moments instead of stressing over what you can, should, or shouldn’t eat. We specialize in healthy prepared meals, so if you are looking for food delivery services in Vancouver, contact us today!
