Nuts and Beets
Nuts are lauded as a resource of protein and healthy fats, they are great foods for the brain. Each nut has its own unique benefits that will definitely support your brain health. Also, pistachios, macadamias, and almonds have their own unique benefits that support brain health. Although, if really want to better your brain health eat walnuts, which are full of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. Both are important for preventing mental decline.
Beets are root vegetables and are one of the most nutritious foods for the brain. Beets help reduce inflammation, they are high in cancer-protecting antioxidants. Not to mention, they help rid your blood of toxins. The natural nitrates in beets boost blood flow to the brain. Which helps with your mental performance. Also, they help during tough workouts, and they help boost your energy and performance levels.
Green tea and Tomatoes
Green tea has a lot of polyphenols and antioxidants that are believed to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s diseases. The amino acid L-theanine is linked to increased neurotransmitter activity that can reduce anxiety. Eggs have several important B vitamins, including B6, B12 and B9 (folic acid). Studies show that these vitamins can possibly help prevent brain shrinkage. And they can also possibly curb mental decline in older adults.
Tomatoes are one of the best foods to eat to improve your brain health. Tomatoes have a lot of lycopene content. This carotenoid has been shown to help stave off cognitive disorders. One fresh medium tomato contains about 3.2 milligrams of lycopene. Furthermore, you can find a lot more in tomato sauce, paste and ketchup.
Whole Grains and Seeds
Whole grains such as oatmeal barley and brown rice are essential parts of a balanced diet. These whole grains support cardiovascular health. Whole grains have a lot of vitamin E. This is an important antioxidant that helps reduce free radicals and prevent neurological damage. Experts also favor consuming vitamin E in its natural form rather than via supplements.
Which makes whole grains a good choice for boosting your vitamin E intake. For example, sunflower seeds have a lot of vitamin E in them.
Pumpkin seeds also have antioxidants and important minerals like copper, zinc and iron. Each mineral can help guard against cognitive decline or brain disorders. That includes Alzheimer’s disease, depression and even epilepsy.
Greens, Berries, and Caffeine
Greens such as kale and spinach have a lot of nutrients like Vitamin K, folate, and lutein. Research suggests that these foods can help slow cognitive decline.
Research shows that the natural plant pigments that give berries their hues help improve memory. A study by researchers at Harvard’s Brigham and Women’s Hospital discovered that women who eat more than two servings of strawberries each week delayed memory decline. The women also ate blueberries each week delayed memory decline by up to two and a half years.
The caffeine in coffee or tea can possibly boost your concentration. In 2014 a study published in The Journal of Nutrition, participants who consumed more caffeine scored better on tests of mental function. Caffeine might help solidify new memories, according to another research. Investigators at Johns Hopkins University asked participants to examine a variety of images. After that, they were asked to take a placebo or a 200-milligram caffeine tablet. New individuals in the caffeine group were able to identify the images correctly on the same day.
Written by Markita Thomas
Source :
Harvard Health – Foods linked to better brain power
Tomah health – 5 Foods That Are Proven To Improve Brain Health
CNET – 12 Best Foods for a Healthy Brain and Better Memory
Dr. Axe – 15 Brain Foods to Boost Focus and Memory
Top and Featured Image Courtesy of PurpleLorikeet Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
Inset Image Courtesy of Josh Graciano Flickr Page – Creative Commons License
