Various nutrients are needed by our brain for it to maintain its health and be able to function well as we age. Studies have found that feeding our brain with high quality, nutrient-rich, and smart foods can help lower our risk of a range of brain issues and help us achieve incredible health benefits and a higher quality of life.
Here are some great brain-healthy foods that really pack the power:
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain fat-soluble nutrients that act as a powerful safeguard for the brain which is composed of mostly fats (60% to be exact). These nutrients which are known as carotenoids are believed to be great antioxidants that are beneficial in neutralizing free radicals. This is an important process to keep our brain functioning at its highest level.
Oily Fish
Oily fish, such as salmon, trout, mackerel, herring, and sardines, are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, which are essential for brain function and possess anti-inflammatory effects.
Tea
Tea has a combination of caffeine and the amino acid L-Theanine. These two have been found to have powerful effects on brain function as it can help improve memory power, reduce anxiety, and improve cognition.
Blueberries
Blueberries are loaded with anthocyanins, compounds that have been shown to help improve or delay short-term memory loss. The same effect can be achieved when we consume other dark-red and purple fruits like blackberries and vegetables like red cabbage.
Broccoli
Dark green leafy veggies are a powerhouse of brain-protective nutrients and antioxidants. They are extremely rich in fiber, folate, lutein, vitamin A, and vitamin K which all help in slowing down cognitive decline.
Pumpkin Seeds
As compared to other seeds, pumpkin seeds are richer in zinc, a mineral that is important in enhancing memory and thinking skills. In addition to this, they are also packed with stress-busting magnesium, B vitamins, and tryptophan, the precursor to the good mood chemical serotonin.
Onions
Studies have found that onions are one of the best sources of folate which can help improve the blood flow to the brain by decreasing homocysteine levels in the body. For those suffering from depression, these effects may also help.
Aside from adding these healthy foods into our diet, regular exercise should also be part of our lives. Exercise helps keep our brains sharp, improves cognitive function, helps us process information effectively, and slows down the mental aging process.
