Miracle foods for weight loss don’t exist and neither do miracle foods for brain health. However, we’ve got five super foods that will not only improve your brain health, but also enhance your brain function. Incorporate the following brain foods into your daily diet and enjoy a tasty boost in brain power.
Salmon
Salmon is one of the healthiest fishes you can eat. Protein-rich and high in good-for-you omega-3 fatty acids, this buttery-tasting catch will not only decrease your risk of heart disease, it can also reduce your risk of Alzheimer’s and dementia. You may even find that a regular intake of salmon—preferably wild salmon—will boost your mood, too. In addition to being a brain food, salmon is super versatile in the kitchen. Try it baked, broiled, poached, pan sautéed, or simmered in a seafood stew.
Blueberries
A blue hued bounty of antioxidants, blueberries can deliciously ward off brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s as well as decrease your chances of developing dementia, which can be caused by oxidative stress. Blueberries—and other berries—can combat the free radicals that cause damage to the brain’s healthy cells. Wild blueberries have been found to have even more antioxidant power. Throw a handful in cereal or pancake batter, toss them into fruit and green salads, simmer them down into a sweet or savory fruit sauce, and blend them into smoothies.
Coffee
Whether you sip coffee first thing in the morning or pop chocolate covered coffee beans as an occasional indulgence, coffee contains caffeine, which has been shown to improve concentration and mental focus. Coffee is also chockfull of antioxidants, which can ease oxidative stress. However, before you chug a pot of java, keep in mind that too much caffeine can actually make you scatter-brained and isn’t good for your health. Keep your coffee intake to 3 cups or less per day.
Nuts
Nuts not only offer crunch and fabulous flavor, these nutritious gems are rich in protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and vitamins E and B6, all of which benefit the nervous system, including your brain function. The nutrients in nuts can also ward off mental disease such as depression. Grab a handful for a snack, crush them into a yummy coating for lean fish and poultry, or purée them into a tasty nut butter.
Avocados
Creamy, dreamy avocados are loaded with healthy unsaturated fats, which can contribute to heart health and healthy blood flow. Since hypertension is associated with a decline in brain function, eating these luscious fruits can boost your brain health by aiding in lowering blood pressure. Additionally, simply eating an avocado, with its creamy rich texture, can immediately boost your mood, offering mouthful after mouthful of comfort. Since avocados are high in calories and fat, however, be sure to limit your intake to modest portions.
Although consuming more brain power foods can boost your brain health and improve your brain function, following a healthy diet that includes these foods and other super foods has been proven to be your best defense against brain diseases and age-related brain decline.
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