10 Super Foods That Will Protect and Boost Your Brain Power
The older you get, the more important it
becomes to take care of your brain in order for it to function properly.
The human brain relies on a steady supply of nutrients from our diet,
blood sugar, and oxygen, all vital components for preventing such mental
disorders as Alzheimer’s and dementia.
The brain is responsible for controlling all movement, thought
processing, and the sensations in the human body. It is a gigantic
memory-storing warehouse capable of holding (arguably) over 2.5
petabytes of data, which is approximately three million hours of your
favorite T.V shows and movies.
The brain regulates every movement your
body makes, from raising your arms in the air to walking in a straight
line and blinking your eyes. So take care of it, learn about ten
super-foods that can help fight off mental illnesses, increase memory
power, and keep your brain healthier.
10 Super Foods That Help Boost Brain Power
1) Dark Chocolate
Dark Chocolate lovers will be pleased to know that this
delicious treat can also be used to increase memory power and even lower
cholesterol. Dark chocolate contains many anti-aging and
anti-inflammatory properties, which help increase proper blood flow.
Enjoy a piece of dark chocolate after dinner and look for the
supermarket versions containing 70% cocoa.
2) Blueberries
Blueberries are a delicious memory-enhancing healthy snack, boosting
many cognitive functions. Blueberries contain high levels of flavonoids,
which are vital components that keep the brain protected from
Parkinson’s disease and dementia. You can mix a handful of blueberries
together with your yogurt, or eat a half cup of these bad boys daily.
3) Walnuts
Walnuts are known to improve memory and thinking abilities since they
contain very high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids
play a critical role in the proper functioning of neurotransmitters,
keeping your mind super sharp. They provide essential nutrients and keep
the oxygen properly flowing throughout blood vessels in the brain. Add
1/2 cup of chopped walnuts to homemade fruit salads, oatmeal, or simply
eat a handful of them raw.
4) Salmon
Salmon is one of the healthiest superfoods you can eat. It is a rich
source of omega-3 fatty acids, many essential vitamins, and DHA
(docosahexaenoic acid), which can significantly reduce the risk for
Alzheimer's disease. Choose wild salmon as opposed to the farmed
version, since it contains fewer levels of mercury and PCB
contamination.
5) Turmeric
This yellow spice contains high levels of curcumin property, which can
prevent Alzheimer’s disease and other serious illnesses from forming in
the body. It is used as a natural healing treatment for toothaches,
various stomach disorders, and clogged arteries. Turmeric also improves
cognitive functions, such as problem-solving and reasoning.
6) Spinach
Spinach is loaded with all the essential vitamins your brain requires to
function properly. It contains high amounts of potassium, which helps
promote electrical conductivity in the brain. Spinach also protects
against fatigue, drowsiness, and even dementia. Make sure you include
this incredible leafy green vegetable to your diet.
7) Tomatoes
Tomatoes help destroy free radical damage to cells, leading at times to
severe mental disorders and even cancer. Tomatoes protect against memory
loss since they contain high amounts of lycopene antioxidant property.
There are many ways to enjoy this robust vegetable. You can add them to
your salad, prepare a homemade tomato sauce, or use them in a healthy
low-fat soup dish.
8) Broccoli
Broccoli contains a memory-boosting compound known as choline, which can
increase the growth of new brain cells and neural connections. Broccoli
also reduces bad cholesterol levels, improves bone density and protects
from cancer. They are also great sources of vitamin C and keep you
protected from the common cold. Eat a cupful of broccoli at least three
times per week to reap their incredible health benefits.
9) Acorn Squash
Winter squash is a rich source of folic acid, which allows for quick
transmission of information through nerve cells. Squash contains high
levels of the B-12 vitamin that protects against nerve damage. You won't
be forgetting important details any time soon with a helping of winter
squash. They can be baked, roasted or pureed as well.
10) Green Tea
Green tea contains plenty of immune-strengthening antioxidants, which
help you concentrate better and stay healthy overall. Drink 2-3 cups of
green tea each day to prevent memory loss and protect against mental
diseases. You can increase these health benefits by adding a squirt of
freshly squeezed lemon juice, a few ginger roots and a dash of honey to
it.