#HealthBytes: Five best food items to boost your brain power
Our mental health is just as important as our physical well being (if not more), and in both cases, our diet plays a crucial role. Talking of mental health, a healthy diet, rich in brainpower boosting food items can help augment your memory, cognitive function, decision-making ability, and even your mood. Here are five food items to help improve your brain power.
Nuts
Nuts are a handy and quick way to improve your brain function. Packed with Omega-3 fatty acids and lean proteins, nuts help strengthen our brain cells, and enhance cognitive function. Additionally, walnuts and almonds, in particular, are rich in the antioxidant Vitamin E, thus protecting the brain from dreadful conditions such as dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
Eggs
Eggs are a powerhouse of nutrients that are essential for brain health. Choline is a compound found in eggs that helps in the formation of our brain's neurotransmitters, eventually helping improve brain function. What's more? Eggs are also rich in protein, antioxidants, and healthy fats. And all these are vital for strengthening and protecting the brain.
Fatty fish
The natural oils in fatty fishes, like salmon and tuna, are stocked up with Omega-3 fatty acids like DHA that empower our brain, by stimulating brain cells growth, enhancing mood, lowering stress levels, and improving our overall cognitive ability. Additionally, intake of these fishes is known to reduce the possibility of developing certain mental health conditions like Alzheimer's.
Soy foods
Soy is another great source of Omega-3 fatty acids and lean proteins, which are significant for improving brain health and function. Additionally, soy foods contain abundant proportion of iron, deficiency of which can take a toll on our memory, attention span, and learning ability. So, include more soybeans, tofu, and soy milk in your diet to improve your brain function and cognitive ability.
Dark leafy greens
Loaded with antioxidants and healthy nutrients, leafy greens, such as spinach and kale help protect the brain and improve its function. Furthermore, essential Vitamins- A, C, and K aid in reducing free radicals, improve cell health, and boost brain power. Also, folate and lutein found in them help strengthen the brain. Additionally, potassium and iron increase oxygenation, protect the brain, and augment its efficiency.
Essential diet tips for healthy brain function
Here are some essential diet tips for proper brain function. 1) Eat smart by taking smaller meals, but at regular intervals. Also, ensure good supply of a wide range of nutrients. 2) Never delay or skip breakfast. 3) Avoid unhealthy snacking - eat healthy snack options such as sprouts, popcorn etc. 4) Eat mindfully, without any distraction. 5) Always stay hydrated.
