9 Foods that are good for your brain

Your brain is the command center of your body, which makes it an essential part of all of your body’s functions. Thus, it’s vital that you take measures to keep it as healthy as possible. One way to do this is to eat nutritious foods that will keep your brain healthy. Here are nine foods that are good for your brain.

1) Salmon and other fatty fish

One food that’s great for your brain (and overall health) is salmon. This type of fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which provides the docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) essential for nervous tissue growth and function. Our bodies are not capable of making DHA, so we must get it from the food that we eat. Salmon, as well as other fatty fish like trout and sardines, is an excellent source. 

2) Green tea

Green tea contains theanine and gamma-aminobutyric acid (in small amounts), which lowers blood pressure and regulates brain and nerve function. Furthermore, green tea is known to reduce anxiety and improve memory, and it contains caffeine, which stimulates wakefulness and reduces fatigue. Despite common beliefs, in moderate and safe amounts, caffeine carries certain health benefits.

3) Dark chocolate

Another excellent snack that you can munch on (in moderation) to boost your brain function is dark chocolate. Delicious and packed with nutrients, dark chocolate contains flavonoids, which have antioxidant effects that may enhance memory and slow down aging. Dark chocolate is an excellent substitute when you want something sweet and nutritious.

4) Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds are also great foods for your brain. They contain healthy fats, antioxidants and vitamin E, which protects your cells from the effects of free radicals. This is important to keep cells healthy and prevent DNA damage. 

5) Whole grains

All your body’s organs are dependent on a healthy supply of blood. Your brain is no different. In fact, it receives 15-20% of the blood pumped out by your heart.  So this is a good reason why to eat foods that are good for your heart. Whole grains like oatmeal and barley promote a healthy heart and may help your body circulate blood better throughout your system.

6) Avocado

Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fat, which may help you maintain healthy blood pressure levels and promote a healthy blood flow. There are countless ways to prepare avocados. You can even add them to your smoothies. They don’t change the flavor but add a little creaminess.

7) Beans

Beans, such as lentils and black beans, are foods that are good for your brain and heart health. Studies reveal that increasing the intake of beans improves heart health. Since your brain is highly dependent on blood flow, a healthy heart means a healthier brain. 

8) Berries

Blueberries and other kinds of berries provide a lot of health benefits. They’re especially beneficial for your brain since they contain flavonoids — which may improve memory — and a lot of other antioxidants, which prevent inflammation and fight against free radicals. Moreover, the antioxidants from berries are found to accumulate in the brain and may help improve your brain cells’ function.

9) Green and leafy vegetables

Green, leafy vegetables like spinach and broccoli are full of nutrients like vitamin K, which is important for your nervous system, and lutein, which has been shown to accumulate in the brain and is positively correlated with cognitive function.

In addition to proper nutrition, there are other things you can do to improve cognitive performance, to keep your brain sharp and in good condition.

Do Brain Exercises

Studies show that mentally stimulating activities create new connections between your nerve cells, which may protect your brain from the effects of aging. Answering puzzles and math problems are some of the ways you can stimulate your brain. Additionally, science has found that learning a second language offers brain health advantages.

Stay Physically Active

Physical activity not only helps you stay fit and healthy, but it also improves learning and memory. Staying active can help you improve both your physical and mental health.

Build Social Networks

Keeping in touch with old friends and meeting new people might help to improve your brain health. Studies show that having strong social relationships may help improve cognitive function.

Your brain — along  with your heart, of course — is your body’s powerhouse. Nutrition matters immensely. Everything you consume has an impact on you. Make smart choices, opt for wholesome foods, and reap the benefits.