10 Brain Boosting Foods

Our lifestyle choices affect the way every organ of our bodies performs. Healthy dietary habits are a natural remedy to most of the complications that we face. Our brain is like an engine that runs every aspect of our being from our creativity to performance. Here is a list of foods that will naturally help you boost your cognitive performance.

Oily Fish
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential nutrients for cognitive health and increased performance. Our bodies do not naturally produce these fats, and that is why we need a supplementary diet to gain them. These fats support over 100 billion neurons and have neuroprotective and antidepressant properties. Foods such as salmon, mackerel, and oysters are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids. You can also obtain these fats from spinach, chia seeds, and walnuts.

Avocados
These fruits are a powerhouse of essential vitamins to boost brain function. While they contain healthy fats, they also contain vitamins B and C. Folate and Vitamin K are what make this fruit standout as a brain booster. These two nutrients can prevent blood clots in the brain which can lead to stroke. They also improve your concentration span, memory, and improve brain function. Try out different ways of preparing the fruit so that you don’t get bored with it.

Blueberries
It’s amazing how our brains benefit from snacking on this small fruit. They are powerful antioxidants and rich in vitamins K and C. They can improve short-term memory loss that is associated with aging and also brain degeneration. Start snacking now if you’d like to remember where you left your keys!

Dark Chocolate
Is there anything that dark chocolate can’t do? We are at it again, and this time it’s because of its properties that help boost brain function. It stimulates the production of endorphins (a feel good hormone) which suppress depression and stress. That’s not all; it contains flavonoids which improve blood circulation in the brain supplying it with sufficient oxygen. This increases concentration span, improves memory, and can enhance your problem-solving skills.

Turmeric
Did you know this ancient spice can help to improve your memory? Turmeric is also known to improve mood and brain function. It enhances cognitive functioning through reducing inflammation, improving neurotransmitter systems, and protecting our brains from oxidative stress. Medical practitioners have used the ancient spice properties to treat Alzheimer's (a neurodegenerative disease). This may just be one of the most useful spices in your kitchen!

Broccoli
You better finish your plate of broccoli during dinner if you want your brain to be sharp even in old age. Broccoli is highly concentrated with choline, vitamin K, and glucosinolates which boost your memory, brain power and protect the central nervous system. Broccoli enhances your cognitive stamina by protecting your brain cells from damage caused by free radicals.

Egg Yolks
Most of us see egg yolks as our worst nightmare because of their high calorie count. However, don’t be so quick to toss them. They are rich in vitamins B6, B12, choline, and folic which are essential in boosting our cognitive development. They are handy when it comes to suppressing the level of homocysteine in our blood. Elevated levels of homocysteine have been linked to making individuals more prone to Alzheimer's disease and cognitive impairment.

Whole Grains
They are the best way to kick-start your day. They provide essential energy to our brains in the form of glucose. This helps us to stay attentive and increases our concentration span. An energized brain is an active one!

Leafy Vegetables
A healthy cognitive diet will consist of leafy veggies. They are powerful antioxidants and protect our brain cells from the damage of free radicals. Veggies such as spinach, kale, and romaine lettuce are concentrated with vitamins K and A. Some studies even indicate that leafy veggies can help prevent dementia.

Sunflower Seeds
These seeds are jam-packed with vitamin E which is essential in protecting our brain cells against damage from free radicals. They also contain amino acids that stimulate the production of serotonin in the brain. This is known as a mood regulator, hence promoting problem-solving skills and cognitive development.

We can naturally boost our brainpower through the food that we eat. By combining a healthy diet with other lifestyle changes such as exercising, regulated alcohol intake, and smoking cessation, you can vastly improve the health and function of your brain. Prepare these foods using different methods to avoid boredom then sit back and enjoy the healthy benefits.

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