While we care for our body, we should also think of how to improve brainpower, because the brain controls all that goes on in the body. What you eat can be a major factor in your health, which includes boosting your mental ability. Here are some foods to help you boost your brain power.
1. Walnuts
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids and are an ample source of monounsaturated fatty acids. They are also a good source of natural phytrosterols and antioxidants, and have also been shown to reverse brain aging in older rats. They also contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), a type of omega-3 fat, to help boost brain functioning and also promote brain healing.
You can find more of this in animal-based omega-3 sources like krill and wild Alaskan salmon. Walnuts also contain some neuroprotective compounds, which include vitamin E, folate, melatonin, and antioxidants that are beneficial for the brain health.
2. Coconut oil
The brain needs glucose and ketones to fuel it for energy. Coconut oil contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCT), known as a great source of ketone bodies and contains up to 66% of MCTs, which goes directly to the liver and converts the oil to ketones that help to fuel the brain.
Ketone bodies have also been shown to restore and renew neurons and nerve functions in the brain, even if there’s already a damage. Two tablespoons of coconut oil will supply you about 20% of MCT, which has been shown to be a preventative measure against degenerative neurological diseases.
3. Broccoli and cauliflower
Broccoli and cauliflower are cruciferous vegetables with good sources of choline, a B vitamin known for brain development. Studies have shown that high intake of choline during pregnancy can help to improve the brain activity of animals in utero and may boost cognitive functioning and also improves learning and memory.
It further functions to diminish age-related memory decline and the brain’s vulnerability to toxins during childhood. Additional benefits of broccoli and cauliflower are that they contribute to the overall vegetable intake and offer health benefits due to their nutrient content.
4. Turmeric
Turmeric contains the anti-inflammatory antioxidant curcumin, which is capable of crossing the blood-brain barrier and is a neuroprotective agent in a wide range of neurological disorder. Studies have shown curcumin to inhibit the accumulation of destructive beta amyloids in the brain of Alzheimer’s patients and also break existing plaques. Curcumin also helps to boost memory and stimulate the production of new brain cells.
Turmeric is often used in curry, but some curry powders may have little curcumin, which is why it’s best that you opt for the turmeric powder instead.
Other ways to boost your brainpower include exercise, reducing overall calorie and carbohydrate consumption, and increasing omega-3 fat intake.
Image courtesy of: bbcgoodfood.com, authoritynutrition.com, thegreendivas.com, media.mnn.com.
