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Posted on Apr 22, 2018, 4 a.m.
Consuming brain foods is the best route to boost memory, focus, concentration, and other cognitive functions. Foods which nourish the body and mind have high levels of good fats, antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins. The best choices include things such as avocados, beets, broccoli, salmon, blueberries, dark chocolate, walnuts, pumpkin seeds, celery, and extra virgin olive oil, among others.
Avocados contain high levels of monounsaturated fats and vitamin K which can help to reduce blood clots which can affect cognitive health.
Beets are loaded with cancer preventing antioxidants and nitrates which can help prevent plaque deposition in the brain.
Celery is a great source of luteolin which can help decrease inflammation in brain microcapillaries.
Romaine lettuce just like many other leafy greens is associated with better brain function and blood flow.
Broccoli and other cruciferous veggies are ideal for keeping memory intact due to its high choline and vitamin K content.
Egg yolks are rich in choline which is an important nutrient for brain repair and development.
Salmon has high concentrations of omega-3 fatty acids which is known to reduce inflammation and help protect the brain from oxidative stress.
Turmeric is probably one of the most antioxidant rich spices in any kitchen, its active ingredient curcumin is known to boost focus and memory.
Mackerel and sardines are much like salmon being rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as EPA and DHA that help protect the brain against the development of neurodegenerative diseases.
Tomatoes contain lycopene which is a powerful antioxidant which help to prevent oxidative stress in neural pathways.
Black currant is a high source of anthocyanins which can help protect against chronic inflammation.
Pumpkin seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and magnesium which can help to reduce inflammation.
Sunflower seeds contain both omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids which will help to boost concentration and memory.
Spinach has high content of vitamin K which is known to boost brain function.
Dark chocolate is packed with flavonols and other antioxidants know to protect brain health,
Coconut oil contains medium chain fatty acids which are metabolized into ketones that are high efficiency fuel for the brain.
Carrots contain a good amount of zeaxanthin and lutein making them ideal brain boosting foods which can also help eliminate inflammation.
Herbs such as sage and rosemary contain rosmarinic acid which has been linked with improved focus and cognition.
This is just a small sampling of functional foods which can help protect and improve cognitive abilities, there are many more such as leafy green vegetables, cruciferous vegetables, and different types of fish. The added benefit to these foods is that they are not just good for the mind, they are also good for the body as well.
Materials provided by:
Healthline
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