Following a healthy diet is equally important for your body and mind. Ever noticed how your brain gets a little fuzzy from time to time? This will become more frequent as you grow older. Though many dietary supplements boast of keeping you fitter and sharper, nothing can beat the real thing. Here are 9 brain foods that will help you concentrate and keep your memory intact.
1. Coffee
Many of you cannot start your day without that steaming cup of joy! Well, good news for all you coffee lovers out there! Coffee keeps you alert and pumps your brain with energy. Though the energy produced is for a short term, it gives you the right kick to get going.
2. Sugar
Numerous studies show how sugar has the the power to fuel your brain and increase your alertness. Note that by sugar, we mean glucose; not your table sugar. Glucose is processed by your body through the carbs and sugars you consume. Again, the effects only last long enough to give a jolt to your brain cells and thought processes.
3. Fish
Consuming fish has a host of health benefits, one of which happens to be the ability to boost your brain function. The omega-3 fatty acids that are abundant in fish is a key brain food. A diet that contains high levels of fish reduces your risk for strokes, keeps your heart healthy, and makes sure your brain is on top of its game. Wild salmon is your best bet if you plan to include fish in your diet to enhance your brain.
4. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate lovers can rejoice, for chocolate can help you focus better. Dark chocolate is known for its antioxidant properties and the caffeine content in it can keep you awake and alert. An ounce of dark chocolate per day could have amazing benefits on your brain as well as heart health.
5. Nuts
Filled with vitamin E and fiber, nuts make sure your cognitive skills remain unaltered as you age. Consuming an ounce of nuts every day can provide you with all the energy your brain requires, that too with less calories. You can have them along with your breakfast, or snack on them in the evening to make sure your brain stays fueled.
6. Blueberries
Many studies have observed how eating blueberries can help modulate your blood pressure, stimulate your brain, and increase your metabolism. Known as “brainberries”, they are low in sugar and rich in potassium, fiber, and vitamins. Blueberries, are known to reduce the harmful effects on brain caused by free radicals, and prevent age-related brain diseases like Dementia and Alzheimer’s.
7. Whole Grains
Whole grains are filled with carbohydrates that are necessary for your body. Filled with protein, nutrients, B vitamins, and various trace minerals, whole grains help keep your cholesterol levels under control, reduce the risk of plaque build-up in your blood, and stimulate your brain cells. Some whole grains that will help you maintain your genius include popcorn, whole wheat, oats, and bran.
8. Avocados
A rather underrated brain food, avocados are as good as blueberries when it comes to making your brain smarter. Though it is a fatty fruit, the fat is monounsaturated and enhances your blood flow, which results in a well pumped mind as well as body. Avocado is also known to keep your blood pressure under control, preventing hypertension, which is a major factor that causes cognitive downfall as one ages.
9. Beans
Not only are they readily available, but also super cheap. Beans are known to regulate your blood sugar levels, which in turn stimulates your brain, as your brain requires glucose for energy. Any kind of beans would do, though lentils and black beans are known to be most effective. Half a cup of beans every day will make sure your brain is fueled well.
