The 5 Best Brain-Boosting Foods : Brain Foods

Published May 22, 2020

Article by Kathryn Steed

Can food make you smarter? In a way, yes. Food can’t improve your knowledge, but certain foods can enhance your brain function, memory, and alertness. While you shouldn’t depend solely on food to keep your brain healthy, snacking on these will help you build a mammoth mind and a massive memory.

BerriesBerries are rich in antioxidants, which help reduce oxidative stress in the brain. Strawberries contain a flavenoid called fisetin which can improve the memory, but blueberries are probably the most beneficial for aging brains. In lab tests, they helped improve the cognitive function of elderly lab rats, and blueberry extract can help limit brain damage due to a stroke. Doctors recommend three servings of fruit per day, so try to make at least one of them berries.

EggsCholine, a nutrient that is important to brain development and memory, is abundant in egg yolks. Choline is especially important for children under the age of seven because their brains are in the early stages of development. Eggs are fairly high in cholesterol, so try not to get too carried away when it comes to this brain food.

SalmonSalmon, along with other oily fish, is high in omega-3 fatty acids. These fatty acids contain DHA, an acid that helps your brain transmit signals. Generally, low levels of DHA in the brain can result in memory loss, lack of concentration, or mood disturbances. But sometimes, people who do not consume enough DHA even suffer from memory loss, depression, ADD, schizophrenia, or autism. Doctors recommend that adults consume between 2-4 grams of omega-3 per day.

CoffeeFreshly-ground coffee beans are rich in vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and amino acids. Several studies have shown that regular coffee consumption can reduce one’s risk of dementia. Recently, researchers in South Korea found that coffee may even slow the growth of brain tumors. It is important, however, to try to drink coffee in its purest form when possible. Combining it with fattening creamers or sugary syrups is counterproductive and poor quality coffee does not contain as many beneficial elements.

NutsNuts contain a great deal of vitamin E, a brain-healthy vitamin. It can help prevent memory loss due to aging. Walnuts, like salmon, also contain omega-3. Cashews contain magnesium that allows more oxygen into the blood cells in the brain. The addition of oxygen makes the brain work better. Peanuts and pecans contain the brain-boosting nutrient choline. Doctors recommend eating one ounce of nuts per day.

Kathryn Steed is a writer and editor for Recipe4Living.com, an ever-growing recipe sharing website. For more articles like this, or for a large collection of recipes, visit the site as http://www.Recipe4Living.com.