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A focused diet to maintain brain health can lead to long-term results.
Walnuts, almonds, and peanuts, as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds, are high-protein, omega-fatty acid-rich brain foods. (Photo: Shutterstock)
A nutritious diet is vital for overall health, but it may also help improve brain power in kids and prevent degeneration as you age. Other factors to consider include heredity, stress, and mental stimulation, all of which can contribute to good brain health. But a focused diet to maintain brain health can lead to long-term results. Just like you concentrate on specific foods for fitness or other health benefits, try including these few food items in your daily diet. These are quite common and can be found in most households-
Nuts and Seeds
Walnuts, almonds, and peanuts, as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds, are high-protein, omega-fatty acid-rich brain foods. Nuts also include antioxidants, vitamin E, and other elements that help brain cells resist oxidative stress. Eating nuts has been related to better memory, sharper cognitive function, and a lower risk of neurodegenerative disease.
Blueberries
Blueberries and other berries are high in antioxidants, which help guard against free radicals, making them an excellent brain food. They also aid in preventing degenerative changes in the brain and improving neural functioning and communication.
Whole Grains
Whole grains provide complex carbs, omega 3, and vitamin B, all of which promote appropriate brain function. Complex carbohydrates give a continuous flow of energy, which regulates mood and behaviour while also aiding in learning and memory.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish, such as salmon, trout, and sardines, are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial to brain function. Omega-3s form membranes surrounding all cells in the body, including brain cells, which improves the structure of neurons. Consuming fatty fish is considered helpful delay age-related cognitive decline and prevent Alzheimer’s.
Turmeric
Turmeric has garnered popularity for its health advantages. Curcumin, a chemical contained in turmeric, can cross the blood-brain barrier and is considered helpful for improving brain functioning. It is also a powerful antioxidant and anti-inflammatory substance that has been linked to improved memory and the ability to generate new brain cells.
Dark Chocolate
Cocoa and dark chocolate contain antioxidants, caffeine, and flavonoids. Flavonoids are a class of antioxidant plant substances that are considered helpful to improve memory and decrease age-related cognitive decline.
