Certain foods can benefit your brain in more ways than one. Although there isn’t any food that will make you smarter, there are foods that can improve your memory and concentration when eaten regularly. Here’s our list of the 10 best foods for your brain:
1. Greek Yogurt: This yogurt is not only loaded with protein and low in sugar, but it also has been found to boost mental alertness. This is due to its amino acid content, which may help boost dopamine and other important neurotransmitters. If you’re not a fan of Greek yogurt, you can get your amino acid fix from a men’s whey protein shake.
2. Grass-Fed Beef: Grass-fed beef contains an assortment of vitamins and minerals that are crucial to optimal brain health. Vitamins B6 and B12, in particular, may help regulate mood and improve sleep patterns. You can also increase your B vitamin intake by taking a men’s multivitamin.
3. Whole Grains: Eating a mix of whole grains provides your body with folic acid, which has been shown to help improve memory. To increase your whole grain intake, sprinkle some wheat germ onto cereal or cook whole wheat pasta instead of white pasta.
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4. Tomatoes: This brain food contains a powerful antioxidant called lycopene, which is believed to protect cells from free radical damage; the antioxidant has also been shown to reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s. Not a fan of tomatoes? Consider an antioxidant supplement.
5. Oranges: Vitamin C-rich foods like oranges have been linked to improved mental agility. When it comes to maximizing your vitamin-c intake, steer clear of orange juice and stick to the real thing; orange contains a high amount of sugar and calories that can contribute to weight gain and other health issues.
6. Dark Chocolate: Dark chocolate is high in zinc, a mineral that may help boost memory. Always practice moderation when consuming dark chocolate; because of its high fat content, dark chocolate can contribute can lead to weight gain if eaten in large quantities.
7. Salmon: Omega 3 fatty acids are your best friend. Salmon, which contains high quantities of this nutritional powerhouse, should be the staple of every healthy diet. Omega 3s play a vital role in brain development; they’ve been linked to numerous benefits such as elevated mood, decreased risk of dementia and improved cardiovascular health. If fish isn’t your cup of tea, you can still get the benefits from an omega-3 nutritional supplement.
8. Spinach: One of the best brain foods around, spinach is loaded with vitamin k and other nutrients that boost your overall wellness. Spinach is not only good for your brain – it’s good for your skin, eyes and muscles. No wonder Popeye was crazy about this vegetable!