Not to be taken for granted, the brain and the many functions it carries out remain a crucial part of the body’s ability to successfully function daily.
As the control centre of our body, the brain is tasked with keeping our heart’s beating, lungs breathing, limbs moving, and body going.
In order to keep the brain in optimal working condition, there are a number of foods we can eat, that will aid in boosting brain power and memory, some of which include:
1. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish is among the most popular foods as far as brain foods go. This type of fish includes salmon, trout, and sardines, which are all rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids.
The brain uses omega-3s to build brain and nerve cells, as well as these fats are beneficial for learning and memory.
2. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in the micronutrients magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper, each of which play vital roles in sustaining or improving brain functioning.
The component Magnesium is essential for learning and memory, iron is necessary for improved brain function, zinc is useful for nerve signaling, and copper aids with controlling nerve signals.
3. Eggs
A regular breakfast item in many households, eggs are an excellent source of several B vitamins including B6 and B12, as well as the compound folate and choline which has been linked to brain health.
B vitamins and folate can assist with slowing mental decline, while choline which is rich in egg yolk, is essential for the memory-boosting brain chemical, acetylcholine.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric contains the active ingredient curcumin, which has been shown to provide the brain with benefits such as, improved memory and new brain cell growth.
5. Broccoli
Eating broccoli is a great source of vitamin K, which has been linked to enhanced cognitive function and improved brainpower.
Research indicates that because broccoli is high in compounds called glucosinolates, it can slow the breakdown of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, which we need for the central nervous system to perform properly and keep our brains and memories sharp.
6. Blueberries
Blueberries and other deeply colored berries have been linked to improved memory or delayed short-term memory loss.
This is owing to the fact, that the fruits contain anthocyanins, a group of plant compounds with antioxidants that act against stress and inflammation, conditions that may contribute to brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases.
7. Green Tea
Green tea has been found to boost brain function by improving alertness, performance, memory and focus.
In addition, green tea is rich in polyphenols and antioxidants that may protect the brain from mental decline and reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
8. Citrus Fruits
When it comes to citrus fruits, chances are you’ll think of vitamin C, and with good reason.
One medium orange can provide the daily recommended amount of vitamin C, in addition to choline, a nutrient essential for learning and memory.
Eating sufficient amounts of vitamin C-rich foods can protect against age-related mental decline and Alzheimer’s disease.
Comments