The food you eat plays a key role in how your brain performs.
Certain foods boost your mental power and should be consumed regularly if you want to be at your best.
Here are the top 10 foods to make you smarter:
1. Dark Leafy Greens
Leafy greens (kale, spinach, arugula, collards, chard) are packed with brain-healthy nutrients including vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene. Consuming a big salad daily is associated with the brain being 11 years younger!
2. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish — including salmon, mackerel, anchovies, sardines, and herring — are loaded with brain-boosting Omega-3s. Aim to eat fish at least 2 times per week for optimal brain health benefits.
3. Berries
Blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries contain flavonoids that improve memory and boost cognitive functioning. Berries also have potent anti-inflammatory properties.
4. Coffee
Coffee has been shown to boost concentration and mental functioning, among other performance benefits. Drinking 3–5 cups of coffee per day is associated with a decreased risk of dementia by 65% and Alzheimer’s disease by 64%
5. Nuts
All nuts are healthy but walnuts and almonds in particular have been shown to improve memory and brain function.
6. Extra-Virgin Olive Oil
Extra-virgin olive oil is rich in polyphenols and monounsaturated fat — good for both brain and heart health.
7. Avocados
Avocados have also been shown to support brain health, while simultaneously lowering blood pressure.
8. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate (85% cacao or above) has many health benefits, including improved blood flow to the brain.
9. Eggs
Eggs are rich in important vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, D, E, and K, which the body uses for memory and communication among brain cells.
10. Turmeric
Turmeric is associated with numerous health benefits and curcumin — the active ingredient in turmeric — has a proven impact on cognition and mood. Adding this spice to your meals will make your brain and body work better.
Include these 10 foods in your diet to make you smarter on a daily basis and over time as you age.
