We have always known that what we eat affects our bodies. That means that everything we eat takes a toll on our brains. At our Las Vegas neurology clinic, we emphasize that brain foods matter! Do you know the top foods for brain health? Food rich in antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals provide energy and aid in protecting against brain diseases. In addition, hormones from our stomach influence cognitive ability like understanding and processing new information. Being properly fed helps us stay focused on the task at hand and recognize when we’re full. When we focus on feeding our bodies whole, nutritious foods, we’re benefiting both our minds and bodies. Our Las Vegas neurologist Dr. Milford has compiled a list of foods for brain health that we should all have in our diets. Read on to learn 25 of the best foods for brain health!
- Avocados: rich in monounsaturated fats (the “good kind), folate, vitamin K, vitamin B, and vitamin C
- Freshly Brewed Tea: hot or iced, boasts memory and focus-enhancing caffeine as well as antioxidants
- Beets: high in antioxidants and natural nitrates
- Almonds: contain high concentrations of vitamin E (3 times more than peanut butter)
- Blueberries: packed with vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber; the highest antioxidant-rich food known to man
- Tomatoes: top source of carotenoids and lycopene
- Bone Broth: high levels of collagen and healing amino acids
- Coconut Oil: concentrated with brain-fueling trigycerides
- Broccoli: loaded with vitamin K, choline, and vitamin C
- Hemp Seeds: provides all essential fatty acids, vitamin B, vitamin D, and vitamin E
- Coffee: contains high concentration of antioxidants and helpful caffeine
- Celery: dense with antioxidants and polysaccharides
- Pumpkin Seeds: excellent source of magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper
- Dark Chocolate (at least 70% cocoa): chock-full of anti-inflammatory flavonols
- Citrus fruits: full of powerful antioxidant vitamin C
- Egg yolks: contains large amounts of choline
- Berries: rich source of anthocyanins and other flavonoids
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: loaded with powerful antioxidants known as polyphenols
- Green, Leafy Vegetables: full of inflammation-fighting vitamins A and K
- Salmon: packed with brain friendly omega-3 fatty acids
- Turmeric: high in powerful anti-inflammatory agent curcumin
- Walnuts: high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals
- Whole Grains: dense with fiber as well as vitamin E and omega-3s
- Beans: provides steady stream of glucose to feed the brain
- Pomegranate Juice: offers potent antioxidant benefits