Have you ever heard that fish is considered “brain food?” It might sound like an old wives’ tale, but the food you eat can have a tangible impact on your overall brain functions. What are the best foods for brain health?
Best Foods for Brain Health
When you’re a senior, taking an active interest in your brain health is a good idea. You may already be taking steps to improve your brain health, such as doing daily brain teasers or ensuring you get enough sleep. However, if you haven’t looked at the food you eat yet, it’s time to start. Studies show that eating certain foods can positively affect your overall cognitive health, making tasks like remembering things easier. So what are the best foods for brain health, and how can you make sure they’re in your diet?
Coffee
If you start every day with a cup of coffee, you’re already doing something great for your brain health. That’s because coffee has caffeine, a chemical that promotes alertness and concentration. Drinking coffee every day has even been linked to a reduced risk of Parkinsons’, Alzheimer’s, and other neurological diseases. If you aren’t a fan of coffee, green tea also has similar benefits.
Fatty Fish
It’s a commonly-held belief that fish is good for your brain. Surprisingly enough, this old piece of advice has some actual scientific backing. Fatty fishes can provide a hefty dose of omega-3 acids, a vital neurological building block that your brain uses in many important ways. Consuming fatty fish has been shown to slow the effects of aging on the brain and may even positively affect Alzheimer’s. If you want to improve your brain health, add regular servings of tuna, salmon, trout, or herring to your diet.
Broccoli
When you were younger, eating broccoli might not have been the highlight of your dinner. However, broccoli is a brain superfood because it contains significant amounts of vitamin K, a nutrient essential to brain tissue development. Studies show that consuming vitamin K can improve memory and cognitive functions. Be sure to add a side of broccoli to your lunches or dinners when possible!
Mixed Nuts
Are you looking for a food that packs a nutritional punch, is easy to eat, and can positively affect your neurological health? Look no further than a can of mixed nuts. Nuts like peanuts, walnuts, almonds, and other standbys are rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, which have a positive effect on your brain’s health. They also have a lot of protein, making them an excellent snack for seniors with a limited appetite. If raw mixed nuts aren’t your favorite, nut butter like peanut butter can give you these benefits too.
Eggs
Eggs are one of the most versatile, high-protein foods a senior can eat. They’re packed with nutrients that will positively affect your cognitive functions, like vitamin B and folic acid. They’re also an essential source of a nutrient called choline, which your brain uses to regulate mood and improve memory. Make sure eggs are on the breakfast table whenever you can, or keep a few hard-boiled eggs in the fridge for a brain-friendly midday snack.
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Now that you know the best foods for brain health, how can you add them to your diet? Talk to your doctor about how you can improve your daily nutrition.
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