Everyone knows that what you choose to eat is reflected both inside and out. By consuming ingredients that are fresh, clean and sustainable, you are improving the function of all your bodily systems. And although it might sound like a bit of a stretch, you are also helping your mind in the process.
8 Healthiest Foods For Memory Power
Adopting the right diet can make all the difference in the world in matters of health, and that includes cognition. Fortunately, pursuing this goal is leisurely as long as you have a little inspiration on hand. Here are the best eight foods that boost focus and memory, complete with a few meal ideas that will make incorporation a lot simpler.
1. Broccoli
Dark leafy greens are all equally viable sources of nutrients that improve memory, focus and other similar roles. But if we’d have to choose just one from all of them, we’d have to go with broccoli as the winner. Due to its high vitamin K contents and glucosinolates stores, this refreshing ingredient will keep you on top of your game at all times. You can learn more about the benefits of vitamin K2 here.
In addition, broccoli is the perfect side dish. Serve it steamed or roasted alongside a lean cut of meat for a delicious, intellect-boosting dinner. And if you want to choose the vegetarian option, you can also bake them into a delicious soufflé together with the preferred cheese varieties in your household. The options are endless, all you need to do is decide.
2. Salmon
Deepwater oily fish such as salmon is an excellent source of essential omega-3 fatty acids. These improve brain function, and fight inflammation as well. All in all, they are a powerhouse for human health. Other varieties that share these properties include mackerel, trout, herring, and sardines, so you have a wide array of choices.
Avoid frying the meat so that you don’t alter its properties. Thus, fish fingers are out of the question entirely. Try baking, broiling or steaming instead. Serve alongside a clean side dish, such as asparagus, brown rice or a few slices of avocado. The latter is another food that is beneficial for cognition, so it will be a win on all sides.
3. Eggs
Eggs are an excellent source of B-complex vitamins, such as B12 and folic acid. These compounds prevent cognitive impairment by lowering levels of homocysteine in the bloodstream. What is more, this property also helps delay brain shrinkage, which keeps your memory and focus astute for longer.
Thus, not only are they a delicious breakfast food, but also one that promotes intellect health. To enjoy their benefits, ensure that you cook them in a clean, sustainable way.
4. Blueberries
Berries are generally known for their cognition-boosting properties. Out of all the popular varieties, blueberries seem to be the best. According to Steven Pratt, M.D., these tasty little fruits protect the brain from oxidative stress, while preventing conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer’s at the same time.
Fortunately, they are also fairly easy to integrate into your daily dishes. Consume them for breakfast mixed into your oatmeal or Greek yogurt or eat them plain as a tasty snack. It’s recommended to eat blueberries as fresh as they come so that their mind benefits remain intact but baking them into a pie from time to time won’t hurt either.
5. Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene, an antioxidant that protects brain cells from free radical damage. Thus, not only does it boost its overall functions, but it also impedes dementia and Alzheimer’s from forming. Eat them more often and you will be surprised at how much sharper you will start feeling.
Cooking tomatoes with a bit of olive oil brings out the lycopene and facilitates absorption. However, many people enjoy them fresh as well. They are a popular addition to many types of famous salads. Thus, if this sounds more like something you’d like to eat, try alternating between cooked tomatoes and fresh tomatoes.
6. Avocado
Speaking of avocados, they are another tasty and healthy ingredient that is worthy of making it on this list. Nutrition expert Ann Kulze, M.D. argues that avocados are almost as good as blueberries at improving brain function. This is due to their high contents of vitamins E and C, as well as a hefty dose of beneficial monosaturated fats.
As previously mentioned, they make a great side to baked salmon. They can also be consumed on a piece of wholegrain toast in the morning together with an egg. And, of course, mixing them with tomatoes in a fresh bowl of guacamole works too. These are all ideal because it combines the benefits of the various ingredients, resulting in even more cognition power.
7. Walnuts
According to science, eating walnuts can keep you from going nuts! Just eating a couple of walnuts a day can improve your overall brain health. Walnuts are high in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals; all of which help to increase cognitive function. The vitamin E content in the nuts can also help ward off different types of brain disease.
8. Dark Chocolate
It may be hard to believe, but dark chocolate is actually very good for you! Cacao beans are full of flavonols, which have antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. These flavonols can also help to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to both the brain and heart.
However, don’t confuse dark chocolate with milk chocolate (like what you find in a Hershey bar). Most of the chocolate you see in stores is highly processed and has tons of added sugar. The rule of thumb is the darker the chocolate, the more health benefits.
Incorporating brain foods into your daily dishes is a safe and efficient way to boost cognitive functions such as memory or focus. Therefore, if you want to keep your mind alert and your attention set on what matters most, try any of the suggestions above. The positive results that will ensue will make the transition worth it.
Author Bio: Daniel Powers, is the co-founder of Utzy Naturals. He is a health fanatic, writer, and entrepreneur. Obsessed with optimizing every aspect of life, he is passionate about teaching others how to live a healthier, happier life.
