Best Brain Boosting Foods

There are a number of foods that taste delicious but also have the added benefit of boosting your brain power!  Try incorporating some of these things into your diet.

• Whole Grains – The brain cannot properly function without energy and the ability to focus and concentrate is derived from blood glucose feeding the brain. Whole grains that offer a low GI are extremely beneficial, as they offer slow releasing glucose, which helps keep levels even throughout the day. Wheat bran, brown cereals, brown pasta and grainy breads are rich sources of whole grains.
• Oily Fish – Offering valuable essential fatty acids, fish is an excellent source of Omega-3, EPA and DHA. For people that don’t care for fish, pumpkin seeds, flaxseed oil, soya bean oil, soya beans and walnut oil also offer excellent benefits. The best types of fish include trout, salmon, mackerel, pilchards, sardines and kippers. Low DHA levels are directly linked to a high risk of developing memory loss and Alzheimer’s.
• Blueberries – High in antioxidants, this deliciously tart berry helps improve short-term memory loss.
• Tomatoes – Lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes, is thought to help prevent free radical damage to cells, especially those associated with Alzheimer’s and dementia.
• B-Vitamins – Vitamins B6, B12 and Folic Acid help reduce homocysteine blood levels, as high levels are associated with Alzheimer’s, stroke and cognitive impairment.
• Blackcurrants – With high levels of Vitamin C, blackcurrant can help increase mental agility.
• Pumpkin Seeds – Just a handful a day delivers a high dose of zinc, helping increase thinking skills and enhancing memory.
• Broccoli – High in Vitamin K, broccoli can help improve brainpower and cognitive functioning.
• Sage – Helping improve memory, sage is an essential oil and herb that is not only delicious, but also healthy.
• Nuts – High in Vitamin E, this tasty treat also prevents cognitive decline. Other sources of Vitamin E include asparagus, green vegetables, seeds, brown rice, eggs and whole grains.

Source: Zupas