What you eat is what you become’ and the impact is not just physical. Your eating habits affect your mental health too. It is thus imperative to select your food cautiously. We have a wide variety of foods to choose from and each includes its own set of nutrients. Read on to find out about those food items that can particularly boost your brain power.
1. Broccoli
This healthful vegetable does as much good to your brain as it does to your physical health. Loaded with vitamin C, iron, calcium, fiber, beta-carotene, vitamin K and vitamin B, broccoli helps in proper circulation of blood and removes heavy metals that are harmful for the brain.
2. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain a powerful antioxidant, lycopene which helps in protecting cells against damage and also fights dementia thereby ensuring brain health.
3. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc that helps in improving memory as well as the power to think and analyse. Include a handful of these nutritious seeds in your daily diet and see the difference.
4. Blueberries
This small blue-coloured fruit safeguards the brain from oxidative damage and also helps reduce stress. Besides, rich in flavonoids, blueberries enhance the communication between neurons, sharpens memory and improves the cognitive function. Acai, goji berries and other dark berries also give a boost to the brain.
5. Whole Grains
Rich in fiber, omega 3 fatty acids and carbohydrates, whole grains protect the brain from sugar spikes and blood clots. These also contain good amount of B vitamins that help in improving the flow of blood to the brain that ensures proper functioning of the brain.
6. Nuts
Nuts such as walnuts and almonds are rich in vitamin B6, vitamin E and omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids. These are known to safeguard the brain from free radicals and enhance its power. You can crunch them as it is or better still soak them overnight before you have them.
7. Legumes and Beans
Loaded with complex carbohydrates, legumes and beans promote steady supply of glucose to the brain thereby barring the risk of sugar spike. These healthful foods also contain foliate that is essential for proper functioning of the brain.
8. Fish
Oily fishes contain rich amount of omega-3 fatty acids as DHA and EPA. Keep your DHA and EPA levels intact for proper functioning of the brain by consuming oily fishes such as mackerel, sardines, trout, pilchards, salmon, kippers and herring.
Apart from these, flaxseeds, sun flower seeds, coconut oil, sage, walnut oil, soya bean, avocado, quinoa, red cabbage and spinach are also known to boost the brain power.