Not a day goes by that I try and remember something…
Where are my keys?
A complicated piano pattern…
A fluffy pancake recipe…
It can be any number of things…
1. Berries
Berries are packed with antioxidants that neutralize free radicals in your brain. Free radicals have been linked to age-related effects of dementia, Parkinson’s or Alzheimer’s disease. Antioxidants not only capture these damaging free radicals, they boost blood and oxygen flow to keep your mind fresh and improve long-term memory.
2. Green Tea
Green tea contains caffeine and L-theanine, both improve alertness and memory and help you to focus better. But do not overdo it. Green tea is better than coffee due to its theanine that prevents fast release of caffeine which can lead to an energy crash.
3. Whole Grains
Whole grains –such as quinoa and oatmeal – are packed with fibers and complex carbohydrates (your brains favorite fuel) to keep your blood sugar stable, promote a healthy nervous system, and enhance memory function.
4. Bananas
Bananas are high in potassium, manganese, vitamin C and B6, and fibers to boost memory and focus. Vitamin B6 stimulates the production of serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine which support concentration and mental clarity.
5. Nuts And Seeds
Nuts and seeds – such as walnuts, almonds, ground flax seeds, or chia seeds – are a good source of antioxidants, fibers, iron, magnesium, vitamin E, and omega-3s which are essential for brain development. They slow down mental decline, improve memory, and increase focus and mental alertness.
6. Avocados
Avocados improve the blood flow to heart and brain and its monounsaturated fats help to improve the communication between brain cells to aid your concentration.
7. Fatty Fish
Fatty or oily fish – such as salmon, marcel, and sardines – are packed with brain boosting omega-3s. They improve memory, mental performance, and mood. They have been linked to lower the risk of strokes, dementia, or Alzheimer’s.
8. Leafy Greens
Leafy greens are packed with brain-boosting nutrients – such as carotenoids, folic acid, and vitamin B6 – to protect your brain and prevent cognitive decline. A study in Neurology has shown that people who eat at least 2 servings of leafy greens – such as spinach, kale, arugula, or Swiss chard – a day improve focus, memory, mental health, and clarity.
9. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is packed with antioxidants and magnesium, which improve blood flow and stimulate the production of endorphins and serotonin. It also contains small amounts of caffeine to improve mental alertness and short-term memory. Opt for raw dark chocolate with the highest cacao percentage and the least processing.
10. Avocados
Avocados improve the blood flow to heart and brain and its monounsaturated fats help to improve the communication between brain cells to aid your concentration.
Here’s an extra…
Water
All right, this isn’t a food…
But it’s a consumable nonetheless…
And it improves the overall function of your body, including optimal function of your brain, depends on water. Staying hydrated has been proven to help you think faster, improves focus, and promotes clarity and creativity. So make sure you get enough of it during the day.
