Whether you want to ensure your young child gets a helping hand in brain development, or are moving into your twilight years and want to retain your brain power, certain foods can play an integral part. Listed below are five super foods that will boost learning and help maintain a healthy brain well into old age.
Blueberries
These delicious fruits are often promoted as one of nature’s ultimate superfoods, and there are plenty of good reasons for the high accolade. Blueberries are packed with essential vitamins C & E, and they are a rich source of flavonoids: these are antioxidants that not only help fight against cancer, but are also linked to the prevention of degenerative disease. Research highlights that the antioxidants present in blueberries appear to encourage the flow of blood and oxygen to your brain, increasing the ability to concentrate and improving memory substantially.
Wild Salmon
There’s a lot more going for salmon than just its luxurious taste. It simply couldn’t be more jam-packed with goodness if it tried, including essential omega-3 fatty acids, which improve brain power, plus it is a great source of iron and vitamin B. Salmon is known to have a positive effect on moods, too. If eaten regularly, it can help you feel more energized, allows you to focus better, and combats depression.
Nuts and Seeds
Another group of wonder foods, nuts and seeds are full of essential fatty acids, protein and are a great source of vitamin E. Peanuts contain folate, a mineral that helps with brain development, playing a part in counteracting any cognitive decline as you age. All nuts and seeds boost brain power, but for general health purposes, it is recommended that you eat them in their most natural state, avoiding those that have been roasted or heavily salted.
Whole Grains
When eaten regularly, this particular food group can help prevent heart disease. The condition of your heart determines how well your blood flows, so if your heart is strong and healthy, it pumps blood around the body efficiently, subsequently increasing the flow to the organs, including the brain. As the name suggests, whole grains involve foods in their natural state with very little removed; switch to whole-grain cereals, bread and rice, and notice the difference in brain power!
Avocado
The health benefits attributed to the avocado put this superfood in a league of its own. Research shows that just one quarter of an avocado a day can produce noticeable and measurable benefits, including improved brain function and the prevention of nerve damage. The mono-saturated fats found in avocados have been associated with the treatment of certain brain disorders and can also help prevent strokes.
Incorporating these five brain-boosting foods into your diet is not difficult, yet the possibilities for improved brain power for young and old alike are immeasurable.
No Comments