FOOD FOR THOUGHT: 10 BRAIN BOOSTERS

Human brain is like a highly complicated instrument. It controls everything that we do and all our biological processes are handled by the brain. There have been several studies done to understand the relationship between food nutrition and the possibility for it to improve the brain’s efficiency. Research has revealed that dietary factors improve neuronal function and synaptic plasticity. This means that all our cognitive abilities like thinking, reasoning, decision-making, rationalizing and other such higher order intellectual functions that we employ in our day to day functioning are directly influenced by the food we consume. However, stress and other physical factors threaten the brain health making it prone to degeneration. Our mothers and grandmothers have been saying the same thing as the scientists are, that eating healthy is the key to superior intellectual performance. So here’s a list of food options we have scooped up for you that are scientifically proven effective for boosting your brain power.

1. Dark Green Leafy Veggies:

Go Green! Source

Spinach, Cabbage, Broccoli and other such vegetables are a rich source of folate and Vitamin E. Green beans also contain essential nutrients like Vitamin K. These nutrients enhance cognitive functions and brain power. They delay the cognitive impairments like dementia.

2. Essential Herbs:

‘Herb’ology Source

Ayurveda has long since appreciated the medicinal properties of natural herbs. Aromatherapy uses essential oils extracted from herbs for their therapeutic value. Brahmi, an essential herb is valued as a brain tonic which not only enhances short and long term memory but also increases brain circulation.

Another pertinent herb for boosting brain functioning is Gingho. It dilates blood vessels and reduced thickness of blood. Rosemary Oil, often used in aromatherapy and also while cooking is known for its effect on improving memory.

3. Berries:

Very Berry! Source

Laden with anthocyanins and powerful phytochemicals, berries are known for their effect on slowing down age-related mental decline. Latest research on berries have shown their direct impact on preventing cognitive decline by expunging toxic proteins that cause memory loss. Strawberries, Blueberries, Cranberry, Gooseberry, and Mulberry, all are powerful sources of nutrients.

4. Seeds:

Seed Up Source

Sunflower Seeds are a potent source of Vitamin E and advance mental capacities. Pumpkin Seeds also are a vital source of zinc which improves cognitive skills.

5. Avocado:

Avocados: Memory Boosters Source

They are a rich source of mono-saturated fats like Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that protect the brain. Vitamin E and Vitamin C present in avocados has been found to lower the risk of Alzheimer’s.

6. Peanuts and Peanut Butter:

Buttery Goodness Source

Both peanuts and peanut butter are rich in Vitamin E. They contain healthy fats that protect the health of the brain and the heart.

7. Nuts:

Nutty Buddy! Source

Nuts like hazelnuts and almonds have had the approval of mothers and scientists alike in being the most effective for higher memory power. Walnuts are superb sources for alpha-linolenic acid which is a type of Omega 3 fat useful in preventing mental decline. In addition, they also contain an antioxidant called ellagic acid that helps in protecting the brain from damage.

8. Fish:

Something Fishy Source

Exceptional sources for DHA (an Omega 3 fatty acid) consuming the different forms of fish like Salmon, Sardines and other oily fish thrice a week has shown excellent health benefits both physical and mental.

9. Eggs:

‘Eggs’uberant Intellect Source

Best consumed boiled, eggs especially the yolks are rich in choline, which helps in producing a neurotransmitter called acelytcholine. This neurotransmitters fire up neuronal activity in the brain and hence enhance memory capacity and performance.

10. Whole-grains:

Brain Grain Source

Consumption of whole-grains ensures a steady and abundant supply of energy in the body. They form the most essential part of your diet as they operate by releasing glucose steadily into the bloodstream and hence enhancing mental agility. Mediterranean diet of whole-grains is inclusive of fruits, vegetables, nuts and seeds, olive oil and wine which effectively reduces inflammation, oxidative stress reduces chances of high blood pressure and mental decline.

Rotator Picture Source