We are what we eat, isn’t just a saying. It is a rule you should live by. Your diet affects all aspects of your life- overall health, brain function, productivity, mood, etc. And your job is to make sure the foods you introduce to your diet have a positive rather than a negative effect.

Since everything comes down to adequate brain functionality, you should always strive to eat foods that boost your cognitive functions and brain health. In this article, we will mention seven foods that can boost your brain’s functions.

1. Fatty fish

Our body needs the essential fatty acids, known as EFAs, for the proper functionality. However, it is unable to produce these acids itself, and we have to take them through our diets.

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for our overall health, and the best source of these acids is fish and seafood. Oily fish contain EPA and DHA, which are unsaturated fats that have a positive effect on our cardiovascular system, prevent prostate cancer, improve vision, and boost our brain’s health.

Various studies have confirmed that omega 3 fatty acids found primarily in fatty fish prevent age-related decline. Moreover, this food contains antidepressant and neuro-protective properties that increase the gray matter in our brain.

Additionally, deficiency of omega 3 fatty acids often leads to numerous health and neurological problems. On the other hand, regular consumption of these acids via oily fish our cognitive functions improve as well as concentration, focus, memory and the risk for dementia, Alzheimer’s disease and other conditions decreases. 

2. Whole grains

Studies show that eating whole grains benefits our brain. For example, did you ever try to avoid carbohydrates altogether and later found it difficult to concentrate and focus on your tasks? That happens because your brain relies on glucose for energy.

However, the brain can’t store glucose, which means it needs the regular and consistent supply of it to function properly. Whole grains digest at a slower rate than refined and processed carbohydrates, and provide your brain with the gradual supply of glucose. This means that moderate use of whole grains retains the proper function of your brain.

Another benefit of this type of food is the release of serotonin. It is a hormone that makes you feel happy, calm, and relaxed. The journal Neuroscience Nursing published results of the study that revealed that lack of Vitamin B6 (this vitamin helps serotonin work better) leads to irritability, nervousness, and in some cases depression.

Naturally, the consumption of this food or any food for that matter should be moderate.

3. Blueberries

They are rich in antioxidants and according to scientists, compounds found in blueberries known as flavonoids improve memory, learning and general cognitive functions including decision-making, reasoning skills, numerical ability and verbal comprehension.

Due to a high level of antioxidants, blueberries protect our brain from oxidative stress and reduce the effects of age-related conditions like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

4. Avocado oils

The Journal of Ethnopharmacology published results of the study that confirmed that avocado oil preserves our brain’s functions by preventing stroke invoked by high blood pressure.

Moreover, avocados are just as successful in boosting our cognitive abilities as blueberries. Avocado is fatty fruit and belongs to a group of monounsaturated fats that contribute to healthy blood flow. Healthy blood flow means healthy brain. Since avocados are high in calories, make sure you add this fruit to only one daily meal as a side dish.

5. Chocolate

You probably didn’t expect to see chocolate on the list of brain boosters, but here it is.

Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants and contains natural stimulants that improve our concentration and focus and stimulate the production of endorphins (the brain’s “feel good” chemicals). It is advised to take one-half to one ounce every day.

6. Coffee

Research conducted by the Johns Hopkins University found that drinking one or two cups of coffee in the morning improves your memory for new information by 10%. It happens because caffeine improves the activity of brain chemicals involved in memory functions.

Various other studies discovered that coffee improves our mood, decision-making skills, concentration and focus, and also some researchers revealed that coffee can even protect our brain from dementia, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Naturally, this only works when you drink coffee moderately.

7. Wild salmon

Foods that act as brain boosters started with fatty fish, and wild salmon is one of them. However, this fish has numerous benefits that cannot be ignored. Wild salmon is regarded by scientists as the powerhouse of nutrition, for a good reason. This fish is rich in omega 3 fatty acids and possesses anti-inflammatory characteristics. Regular consumption of wild salmon improves the efficiency of brain functions, improves your memory as well as your concentration.

Also, together with amino acids, Vitamins A and D, and selenium, fatty acids in wild salmon protect your nervous system from various age-related conditions. Also, healthy level of omega 3 fatty acids reduces the symptoms of ADHD and decreases the risk of getting a stroke.

8. Brain supplements

Another great way to boost your brain functions is by purchasing brain booster products. These products are designed to help you concentrate and improve your memory as well as other cognitive functions. However, you should always bear in mind the quality of product you’re about to purchase.

The example of good and effective brain supplement is Lumonol as it is designed to have multiple positive effects on your cognitive function, upgrades your memory, attention, concentration, and relieves anxiety and forgetfulness. Lumonol is made of natural ingredients and doesn’t induce side effects.

Conclusion

All functions of our brain can be improved through adequate nutrition rich in antioxidants, omega 3 fatty acids and other nutritional components that our brain needs in order to perform properly.

Reference:

https://www.consumerhealthdigest.com/brain-health/how-to-improve-memory.html

http://www.theworldofhealth.co.uk/united-kingdom/london/articles/health-benefits-of-omega-3-to- improve-your-brain-health-52

http://broowaha.com/articles/22949/5-foods-that-boost-your-brain-power

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                                                       About Our Guest Author
Vaileria Dennis is a Health and Beauty expert. She has written various articles on Beauty and Makeup. In recent years, she has had an opportunity to learn about Food and Nutrition. She is always excited to share her ideas related to Beauty, Makeup Tips and skin science.