We all know that our brain is one of, if not the most, important organs in our body. It uses 20% of the body’s energy, energy that comes from calories in the food we consume. Just like our car, if we constantly put in fuel that is empty in nutrients, our brain won’t last as long as it should. Neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's, dementia, and epilepsy are frequently hereditary, but their severity can be directly mitigated if we are conscious about the foods we ingest. Don’t get us wrong, we love a good juicy burger but with everything in life, the rule of duality, of true balance, is the recipe for success!
Oily fish: despite a strong smell and possibly being shunned from the office if you reheat it, oily fish contains omega-3 fatty acids which build membranes around each cell in the body, especially brain cells. Fish like salmon, mackerel, tuna, herring, and sardines have been connected to increasing blood flow to the brain and better thinking abilities.
Nuts and seeds: echoing the significance of omega-3 fatty acids, nuts are full of them and antioxidants. Specifically, nuts and seeds such as sunflower seeds, almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts are full of the antioxidant vitamin E, which protects calls from oxidative stress, which our brain can be exposed to as we age. A 2014 study found nuts and seeds to also contribute to strong cognitive abilities and a reduction in a risk of Alzheimer diseases.
Dark chocolate: whether you drink it or eat it, dark chocolate, 70% cacao or higher, is good for both your brain and your soul! Dark chocolate contains antioxidants that help support neuron and blood vessel growth in the parts of the brain controlling memory and learning. Studies conducted in 2016 found dark chocolate to reverse memory problems in snails!
Berries: echoing the significance of antioxidants, berries are chock full of flavonoid antioxidants that help reduce inflammation, oxidative stress, increase plasticity which helps new brain cells form new connections, and reduces or delays age-related cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. The most powerful berries are strawberries, blackberries, blueberries, black currants, and mulberries.
Whole grains: whole grains such as brown rice or oatmeal, coffee, avocados, peanuts, eggs, and broccoli!
We encourage you to try to add this into your daily diets for a strong brain. We are better equipped to thrive in the face of life’s stressors the stronger our tool box is.