Whether it’s from lack of sleep, hormones, or stress, there are certain days when our mental capacities seem to be a bit lagging. Just as important as mental exercise is to feeding your brain, so is your diet. With a few simple tweaks to your menu, you can significantly boost your brainpower. Just keep in mind, some effects occur over time while others are a bit quicker to take hold.
Check our our Top 10 list of foods that feed your brain and you will be well on your way to achieving a higher level of mental clarity!
Turmeric: For long-term brain power, turn to this Indian staple,. This brightly hued herb is used in curry and has been shown to protect against inflammation as well as Alzheimer’s. You can sneak turmeric into just about anything, with it’s calming subtle flavor (unlike it’s neon-like color) it might light up your dish but not your taste buds.
Healthy Fats foods: Foods rich in healthy fats, including avocado and salmon have neurological benefits as well as cardiovascular ones. Try an avocado in your smoothie in the morning (you only need ¼) or add some soaked cashews. The blend will be creamy and your head will receive a multitude of benefits.
Go beta-carotene: The antioxidant responsible for the orange hue in fruits and vegetables has been shown to increase brain function. Aim for orange at every meal if you can, looking to such options as carrots, squash, sweet potatoes, oranges and peppers.
Cheers for chickpeas: Back to the chickpea comment above (related to turmeric), but chickpeas are rich in vitamin B and folate. Studies have shown that individuals with low levels of folate are at a higher risk for Alzheimer’s.
Go for the Joe: If you’ve had a rough night, heading for a cup of coffee isn’t such a bad idea. Coffee helps stimulate the central nervous system and can increase overall cognitive function. Just remember to keep it to 3 or less cups per day.
Chocolate: the real stuff has a lot of health benefits including boosting memory, cognition, and mood. This sweet treat, in it’s dark form with a high percentage of cacao, is famous for reducing inflammation and cardiac risk.
Tea: As I sip my tea, I’m discovering how healthy tea is for your memory. Tea is rich in polyphenols, antioxidants found to improve memory and overall cognitive function. In addition, tea may help inhibit the activity of enzymes that are linked with the development of Alzheimer’s Disease.
Beets: Beets don’t often receive a lot of acclaim. But according to research foods rich in nitrates help increase blood flow, helping protect your brain from dementia.
Rosemary: Herbs, including rosemary and oregano help reduce inflammation in the body. Scentually, however, these herbs also have beneficial effects helping increase memory and recognition.
Sunflower seeds: A variety of seeds including flax seeds and pumpkin seeds, as well as sunflower seeds are rich in omega-3 fatty acids as well as vitamin E, which has been shown to help protect your brain. Try adding a tablespoon to your daily diet.
3S Celebrity Blogger:
Melissa Wiliams, Freelance Writer | Co-Owner, Yoga Junction
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