Unfortunately there is no pill to prevent cognitive decline, There are some things that are better than a pill. There are foods that act as medicine and will help you maintain and in some cases reverse tissue damage. No single brain food will ensure a sharp brain as you age. Dietitians stress the best strategy is to consistently eat wholesome fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains. REAL FOODS are trending. Try to get the majority of your protein from plant sources and fish. Choose healthy fats, such as olive oil or avocado oil, rather than saturated fats. Hmmm could it be the same Heart Healthy Diet works for your Brain too? Again: REAL FOODS.
However, there are certain foods in this overall scheme that are Mega Brain Boosters. Omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, and antioxidants, are all known to support brain health and often referred to as Superfoods. Adding these foods into your diet on a regular basis can improve the health of your brain, which could translate into better mental function.
Research shows that the best brain foods also protect your heart and blood vessels. Here are the Super Stars:
Green, leafy vegetables. Leafy greens such as kale, spinach, collards, and broccoli are rich in brain-healthy nutrients like vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene. They slow cognitive decline.
Fatty fish. Fatty fish like Wild Caught Salmon are abundant sources of omega-3 fatty acids, healthy unsaturated fats that keep your vessels soft and supple and fight plague build up in the brain. Try to eat fish at least twice a week, choose varieties that are low in mercury, such as wild caught salmon, cod, and trout. If you’re not a fan of fish, ask your doctor about taking an omega-3 supplement, or choose omega-3 sources such as flaxseeds, avocados, and walnuts.
Berries. Flavonoids, the deep plant pigments that give berries their rich color, improve memory. Eat these daily is you can.
Walnuts. Nuts are excellent sources of protein and healthy fats. The Walnut is the top dog when it comes to improving memory. Walnuts are high in a type of omega-3 fatty acid called alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which helps lower blood pressure and protects arteries. That’s good for both the heart and brain.
That’s all for today… Remember to Get Up, Get Out and Get Moving Each and Every Day!
BeWell -Gerryl