Foods That Can Boost Brain Function

The brain is the most important part of the body because it serves as the body's control center. Just like any other organ in the body, the brain also needs energy. The brain always needs a constant supply of energy to carry out its functions such as the organization, concentration and processing of information. This constant supply of energy can be achieved with various foods that slowly release glucose into the bloodstream. These low-GI foods can keep a person mentally alert throughout the day.

So what are these foods which can boost brain function? Here are some of them.

Top Brain Foods

Whole grains

Whole grains provide a slow release of energy which can boost brain performance and concentration. Examples of these whole grains include brown cereals, wheat bran, brown pasta and granary bread. You should bear in mind that there are various types of grains: whole, refined and enriched. You should be able to differentiate whole grains from all other types. Whole grains are unrefined grains whose bran and germ hadn't been removed through milling. These types of grains are good sources of fiber and other nutrients such as selenium, potassium and magnesium. They either make single foods or as ingredients in food products.

Refined grains, on the other hand are milled grains wherein the bran and germ are stripped off to give them a finer texture. These grains are often stripped off of important nutrients such as fiber. Examples of refined grains are white bread and degermed cornflower, as well as commercially available breads, cereals, crackers, desserts and pastries. Enriched grains are the type of grains that have received enrichment of nutrients after processing. These grains are fortified with vitamins and minerals.

Fatty Fish

Fatty fish contain essential fatty acids that are not made by the body and should be obtained through the diet. Some of these essential fatty acids include EPA and DHA. These fatty acids are from fatty fish which includes salmon, trout, mackerel, herring, sardines, pilchards and kippers. It is not only in fatty fish that these fatty acids may be found. They may also be obtained from flaxseed oil, soya bean oil, walnut oil, pumpkin seeds and soya beans. These essential fatty acids can prevent memory loss and Alzheimer's disease.

Blueberries

Blueberries are said to be effective in preventing memory loss. This is because these fruits are rich with antioxidants that may have potential benefits on brain health and other parts of the nervous system. Blueberries have been found in some studies to improve cognitive function and boost memory. The antioxidants present in this fruit can also slow down other problems associated with aging. Berries are also low in terms of glycemic index, thus triggering a slow release of energy for the brain.

Tomatoes

Tomatoes contain lycopene, a powerful oxidant that can protect the brain and nerves from antioxidant damage. It can protect against dementia such as Alzheimer’s. Lycopene is responsible for the deep red color of tomatoes. Aside from brain health benefits, lycopene may also give rise to good bone health. It can also lead to good heart health.

Vitamins

Vitamins particularly B6, B12 and folic acid can reduce homocysteine levels in the body. Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with impaired cognition, Alzheimer’s disease and increased risk for strokes. There are some studies which show that high doses of B6, B12 and folic acid can lead to lessen brain shrinkage.

Blackcurrants

Blackcurrants are known to be rich with Vitamin C. This vitamin can boost brain function and improve memory. These are also due to the antioxidants that it contains. These fruits can provide more Vitamin C than oranges and other citrus fruits.

Pumpkin seeds

Pumpkin seeds have increased amounts of zinc and other nutrients that can enhance memory and boost brain function.

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