6 Beneficial Foods For Your Brain Health
The brain is undoubtedly our most valuable and important organ, since it acts as the director of our body. We reason, we think, we speak, we move and ultimately, we live thanks to him. So, in order for your brain to stay healthy, strong and clear-headed, we recommend a list of the best foods for your brain health.
The brain is the organ that allows us to feel and be aware that we are alive. Therefore, the way in which we take care of it will determine our quality of life. This vital organ needs a healthy diet and lifestyle, so not all foods are equally beneficial for our brain health.
Why is it important to maintain good brain health?
It is scientifically proven that people who remain physically and intellectually active have a higher quality of life, are more independent, have more initiative and relate better. Like a muscle, the brain also atrophies.
In the same way that you have to exercise your body to keep your muscles in shape, you also have to exercise your brain. In addition to exercise, diet also plays a very important role in caring for the brain.
Foods with benefits for your brain health
1. Blueberries
The red and purple fruits are an important source of polyphenols, substances that help fight oxidative stress. Blueberries, therefore, could help prevent or delay degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s thanks to these polyphenols, as indicated by research such as that published in 2014 in the Expert Review of Neurotherapeutics .
2. Broccoli
Broccoli is the star of vitamin K, along with Brussels sprouts and green leafy vegetables. In some studies, it has given very positive results not only in its already known and indispensable function in blood clotting, but also in treatments for Alzheimer’s.
Research from the University of Montreal in Canada showed that older people with a higher presence of vitamin K1 made better speeches, progressed in their verbal expression and had greater retention of information.
3. Blue fish and your brain health
Salmon, tuna, mackerel or sardines are foods rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, basic for neuronal functions. These nutrients are also effective in slowing the progression of mild cognitive impairment and can help prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s or Parkinson’s.
4. Egg yolk
The egg yolk contains choline, a nutrient that belongs to the group of B vitamins and that strengthens the nerve connection of neurons. The foods that contain the most choline are eggs, red meat, peanuts, chicken, cod, milk, Brussels sprouts, garlic, among others.
According to research, increasing the dietary intake of choline can lead to improvements in cognitive performance and would also protect against memory loss.
5. Oats
Another of the foods that should not be missing on our shopping list. Usually taken at breakfast, oatmeal helps control sugar and cholesterol levels, two fundamental parameters for the health of your brain.
In addition, we are facing a good balancing of our nervous system because, apart from having vitamin B1, it has properties that favor concentration and intellectual performance.
6. Dark chocolate for the health of your brain
Cocoa is high in flavonoids, a natural compound with antioxidant and neuroprotective effects that improves cognitive performance and reduces the risk of dementia. In addition, cocoa contains stimulating substances such as caffeine and theobromine that promote concentration.
On the other hand, scientific studies have shown that dark chocolate protects the brain from inflammation and neurodegenerative effects in some cases.
Of course, chocolate, like any other food, must be consumed in a balanced way, since in excess it will be harmful. Whenever possible, ensure that the intake is dark chocolate or as pure as possible to prevent its properties from being altered.
We hope that you will be encouraged to include these foods that benefit your brain health, we also recommend doing exercises that involve thinking a little so that you remain clear and active despite the passage of time.
