The brain is not what you initially think of when you think about health and nutrition! What you eat and your brain are entirely in sync with one another, and what you eat can affect how your brain functions and core aspects of your mental health.
Our brains require the correct fuel to be the best functioning brain it can be! Things like mood disorders and managing emotions are all connected by what you are eating and the nutrients you are putting in your body.
There is an excellent selection of foods that can promote a healthy functioning brain, and there are a variety of nutrients that you should be putting in your everyday diet.
Here are some of the best kinds of foods for better brain health.
Dark Green, Leafy Vegetables
Dark leafy green veggies like spinach, collards, and broccoli are rich in brain-healthy nutrients like vitamin k, lutein, folate, and beta-carotene.
85% Dark Chocolate
Specifically, dark chocolate is packed with compounds that boost the brain, like flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants.
Fatty Fish
Fish like Salmon, trout, and sardines are full of omega-3 fatty acids, primary building blocks for the brain.
Ginger
Ginger contains valuable health and well-being plant-derived chemicals that benefit the brain. Research shows that foods with high antioxidants, like ginger, help prevent stress on the brain.
Berries
Multiple types of berries contain flavonoids, which are the natural plant pigments that give berries their hue. These flavonoids are also linked to improving memory.
Turmeric
This active compound is curcumin which has strong anti-inflammatory benefits. Found in ingredients such as curry powder, commonly used to add flavor, can also benefit the brain. When cooked, turmeric becomes more easily absorbable in the body and increases the nutrients. Turmeric has also been shown to reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease and even depression.
Tea and Coffee
Both these examples contain caffeine and antioxidants that help the brain and sharpen concentration.
Cinnamon
Cinnamon is a commonly used spice that comes from a tree’s bark. Cinnamons are used in therapies for things like diabetes and improving glucose levels.
Nuts
Different types of nuts are high in omega-three fatty acids, which also improve memory.
Black Pepper
Piperine is the main component found in black pepper. Studies show that piperine has high antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties. Those benefits can help with memory and have been linked to benefiting those with Alzheimer’s disease.
To feel balanced and have energy, you must make nutritional choices and determine what you want in your body to fuel your brain. Eating quality foods with a high amount of vitamins can nourish the brain in so many ways. A high processed food diet with high sugar content is worsening your brain and mental health status.