Ten foods to help fend off the fuzzies and keep your memory sharp.
When it comes to feeling great, a whole-food, plant-based diet comes out on top. Fruits, vegetables, and grains are ideal foods for nourishing your body and your brain. To help keep your memory sharp, give these 10 brain foods a try.
Garlic
Eating garlic does more than ward off coughs and sniffles. Research shows that the phytonutrients found in garlic may help prevent the onset of dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.
Leafy Greens
It’s no secret that green, leafy veggies, such as spinach and kale, are great for your health. Not only do they help support the immune system and keep an aging brain sharp, they are also a source of iron and a rich source of folate.
Cruciferous Vegetables
Don’t let the name scare you off! The cruciferous vegetable family includes everyday veggies such as broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, and Brussels sprouts. This versatile bunch is rich in vitamins and minerals that may help improve memory.
Whole Grains
Whole grains are rich in phytonutrients and the B-group vitamins that are important for cognition. They’re also an ideal energy source for maintaining concentration throughout the day.
Pomegranate
There’s a reason why you’re seeing this delicious fruit in healthy salads, and it isn’t just because it looks good. Pomegranates are packed with powerful antioxidants that help protect your brain and memory.
Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
This pantry staple is the perfect choice for everyday cooking and salad dressings. Not only is olive oil full of good fats, it’s also rich in phytochemicals that help to enhance blood flow in the brain.
Berries
These little guys pack a serious nutritional punch. Berries are bursting with antioxidants and phytonutrients, which help boost cognition, coordination, and memory. So, whether you’re after a healthy snack or something to boost your morning smoothie, a handful of berries is a no-brainer.
Nuts
Don’t let brain fog get the best of you—enjoy a handful of nuts per day to improve mood and help with clear thinking.
Seeds
Seeds such as flax and chia contain vitamin E (an antioxidant) and omega-3 fat, which may help your brainpower. You can sprinkle them on salads or add them to your favorite cereal to be ready for a busy day.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes are a rich source of lycopene. It’s the nutrient that makes them red, and it also has potent antioxidant properties that may help combat the development of dementia.
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