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Eating a healthy diet is important for general well-being, but it might be even more beneficial in the prevention and delay of the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. Diet isn’t the only factor in prevention; other things need to be taken into account, such as, genetics, stress, and mental stimulation. Eating these brain foods along with keeping a regular sleep schedule, managing stress and including mental stimulation, such as completing puzzles or learning a new language, can all be a part of maintaining great mental health. Eat these top “brain foods” for potential memory-boosting powers.
Nuts such as walnuts, almonds, and peanuts, as well as sunflower and pumpkin seeds, are brain foods high in protein and omega fatty acids. Protein is the second largest matter in the brain, second only to water, so it is important to nourish your brain with protein rich foods. Proteins help neurons within the brain communicate with each other through neurotransmitters that are made from amino acids. Amino acids are also found in protein, not to mention that they are packed with omega 3 and 6 fatty acids. These are essential fats that our bodies do not make, but that we need to consume. Omega fatty acids aid in building cells to maintain normal brain function, as well as helping with storage of new memories through the creation of synapses or connections, within the brain.
Oily fish, such as salmon, are high in omega 3, and in particular DHA, a building block of the brain that improves brain function. A higher omega 3 intake has been shown to improve the memory of Alzheimer’s patients.
Beans are rich in fiber, B vitamins and omega fatty acids. Fiber helps keep you fuller longer and creates a gradual release of sugar, helping concentration and memory so you can keep a steady work flow throughout the day. B vitamins help convert a chemical compound, homocysteine, into other important brain chemicals like acetylcholine, which aids in creating new memories. And, of course, omega fatty acids are essential for brain development and sustenance.
Blueberries and other dark berries are rich in antioxidants, which protect against free radicals, making them one powerful brain food. They also help fight against degenerative changes in the brain and enhance neural functioning and communication.
Greens such as kale, spinach and broccoli are high in vitamin E as well as folate. Vitamin E helps protect cell membranes against free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that attack cells within our body. Some causes of free radicals include stress, pollution, radiation and processed food. Folate is also found in dark greens, and helps with normal brain development.
Lean red meats, such as sirloin steak, are high in iron. Iron aids in the production of neurotransmitters, as well as helps blood cells carry oxygen throughout the body, including the brain, aiding in attention and concentration. This can aid in learning new things, and mental stimulation has been shown to ward off Alzheimer’s.
They are rich and creamy, and filled with omega fatty acids, as well as vitamin E. Omega fatty acids are essential for cell growth and brain development, and vitamin E helps protect cell membranes from free radicals. Vitamin E may also slow progression of degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s, through its protection, maintenance and repair of cells within the brain.
Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, which is an antioxidant. Lycopene regulates genes that influence inflammation and regulates cell growth within the brain.
Whole grains contain complex carbohydrates, omega 3s, and B vitamins that all support normal brain function. The complex carbs provide a steady supply of energy that regulate mood and behavior, as well as aid in learning and memory.
Red Cabbage is antioxidant rich. These antioxidants help guard against free radicals that attack your DNA, proteins and carbohydrates within the body. Some say that free radicals are what leads to aging and may even be a contributor to Alzheimer’s disease.
Brown rice is full of B-vitamins, which help convert homocysteine, an amino acid, into important brain chemicals used for learning and creating new memories.
Green tea is packed full of antioxidants that help protect against free radicals. Free radicals are unstable, reactive molecules that attack your body’s cells.
Not only does it taste good but some studies suggest it’s also good for you. Red wine contains an antioxidant called resveratrol. This antioxidant helps improve blood flow to the brain and aids in attention and concentration. Remember: moderation is key when it comes to consuming alcohol. Recent studies suggest that adults who have one glass of wine per day may reduce their risk of Alzheimer’s disease.
Dark chocolate is not only delicious, but it is packed full of antioxidants which, as we know, protect against free radicals. They also support the learning and cognitive functions of the brain, which could delay the effects of Alzheimer’s.
Quinoa is high in complex carbs, iron and B vitamins. The brain uses up 20 percent of consumed carbohydrates which is a lot for being just 2 percent of your body mass. Complex carbs are brain food. They provide a steady supply of energy needed for normal brain function. Iron helps blood oxygenate the body and is important for attention and concentration. B vitamins help create brain chemicals that are important for creating memories.
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Thoroughly cooking food of animal origin, including but not limited to beef, eggs, fish, lamb, milk, poultry, or shell stock reduces the risk of food borne illness. Young children, the elderly, and individuals with certain health conditions may be at a higher risk if these foods are consumed raw or undercooked.