Ever contemplated what role food plays in brain function? While it’s no secret that what we eat affects the way we look and feel, physically and emotionally; according to researchers, our dietary decisions also impact brain functions like memory and productivity.
In fact, according to a 2010 study, by consuming foods rich in antioxidants, good fats, vitamins, and minerals, you'll boost both your gut and brain function, allowing for increased energy and memory as well as reducing your risk of brain disease. For a mix of fruits, veggies, oils, and chocolates that’ll do your mind and body good, keep scrolling.
Avocado
Both a fruit and an excellent source of healthy fats, these tiny green powerhouses are packed with both vitamin K and folate, which prevent blood clots in the brain as well as improve cognitive functions like memory and concentration.
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Blueberries
Rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, fiber, and Gallic acid, blueberries are especially good at protecting our brains from stress and degeneration – proof that great things do come in small packages!
Broccoli
Not only has broccoli been linked to weight loss, but the veggie’s been dubbed one of the best brain-boosting foods out.
Loaded with vitamin K and choline, it helps keep your memory sharp.
High levels of vitamin C and fiber will also have you feeling fuller longer, allowing you to concentrate more on the day ahead of you and not your growling stomach.
ALSO READ: Eat Broccoli To Help Manage Diabetes
Coconut oil
It’s not only good for your waistline! When it comes to your brain, this versatile oil is proposed to be a “source of ketone bodies that has been touted as an effective treatment for AD [Alzheimer’s disease],” a 2012 study published in Future Medicine says.
RELATED: 10 Ways to Protect Your Brain
Dark chocolate
Packed with flavonols, antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, this sweet treat improves blood flow to the brain and heart.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil
Not only does extra virgin olive oil improve learning and memory, but it also combats diseases like Alzheimer’s.
According to experts, this is due to properties that fight against ADDLs, toxic proteins known to attack memory-forming synapses, which as a result, induce progressive memory disease.
Leafy greens
Leafy greens like kale, Swiss chard, spinach and romaine lettuce (loaded with vitamins A and K) can help ward off dementia, research says.
In one study, which evaluated the eating habits and mental ability of about 950 adults for an average of five years, those who ate one to two servings of leafy greens each day saw slower mental deterioration than those who didn’t consume any veggies.
Even after factors like age, education and family history of dementia were factored in this was the case.
RELATED: 4 Exercises to Aid in Strengthening Your Memory
Salmon
Goodbye, memory fog! This brain-friendly food is full of omega-3 fatty acids to help keep your brain running smoothly all day long.