Foods That You Should Eat To Improve Your Brain Function

1. Dark Chocolate - great news for chocolate lovers!

Image source / RedditGood news for chocoholics!  Dark chocolate can by very good for your brain.  The delicious confectionary is full of flavonols which have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.  Studies have shown that cocoa can increase cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood oxygenation.  They can also help lower blood pressure and oxidative stress in the heart and brain.

2. Red Wine - beneficial in small quantities

Image source / RedditLow to moderate red wine consumption could have possible brain health benefits due to Resveratol, a polyphenolic compound which is prominent in the beverage and helps protect the brain by strengthening the blood-brain barrier.  It may also reduce the ability of immune system by-products to infiltrate the organ, causing disease. This polyphenol could inhibit the invasion of brain tumour cells.

3. Avocados

Image source/ RedditEven though avocados have a high fat content, they are packed with mono-saturated fats which have been shown to lower the rate of  cognitive decline and keep blood sugar levels steady.  Containing vitamin K and folate, avocados can help prevent blood clots in the brain as well as helping to improve brain functions related to memory and concentration.

4. Broccoli - contains a list of vitamins as long as your arm!

Image source / RedditYour mom got it exactly right when she told you to eat your broccoli!  Along with veggies like cauliflower, kale and Brussels sprouts, broccoli is one of the best brain-healthy foods you could have, thanks to its high levels of vitamin K and choline, which can help keep your memory sharp.

5. Tomatoes - could stave off Alzheimer's

Image source / RedditTomatoes are one of the best foods for brain health because of their rich lycopene content. This powerful carotenoid has been shown to help stave off cognitive disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.  A single, fresh, medium tomato contains about 3.2 milligrams of lycopene and it's even found in tomato sauces and ketchup. Image source / RedditPlain peanut butter is bursting with goodness so that will encourage you to eat your peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for lunch!  It's rich in B vitamins, protein, magnesium, mono-unsaturated fats, fiber, manganese, iron, vitamin E and zinc.  These all support  your brain health, heart health and energy levels.

7. Coffee And Tea - may manage stress levels

Image source / RedditYou may be used to drinking coffee or tea to keep awake but these caffeinated beverages have more to offer than this.  Researchers have noted caffeine's ability to boost the brain's information-processing capacity.  Coffee also packs many powerful antioxidants which may help support brain health and manage stress levels.

8. Beets - boost blood flow to the brain

Image source / Gardener's PathBeets are root vegetables and thought to be one of the most nutritious foods for the brain that you can eat.  They help reduce inflammation, are high in cancer-protecting antioxidants and they can help rid your blood of toxins.  The natural nitrates in beets can boost blood flow to the brain, helping with mental performance.

9. Blueberries - great things come in small packages!

Image source / RedditProving that great things come in small packages, experts recommend consuming blueberries every day.  They've got some many benefits as well as tasting good!  Blueberries are one of the highest antioxidant-rich foods around, including vitamin C and fiber.  Because they contain high levels of gallic acid, blueberries are especially good at protecting our brains from degeneration, stress and cognitive decline.

10. Celery - almost calorie free but nutrient-dense

Image source / RedditFor a vegetable with only 16 calories in a cup full, celery offers so many benefits.  Its high levels of antioxidants and polysaccharides act as a natural anti-inflammatory and can help alleviate symptoms related to inflammation, like joint pain and irritable bowel syndrome.  Because it is loaded with minerals and nutrients, improving flood flow, it's definite brain food.

11. Walnuts - munch a few a day for benefits

Image source / RedditWalnuts can keep you from going nuts and that's not a joke!  Munching just a few a day may help improve cognitive health.  Their high levels of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals can also improve mental alertness.  The vitamin E found in these nuts could help protect brain cells.

12. Coconut Oil - such a healthy fat

Image source / RedditWhen it comes to your brain, coconut oil can help suppress cells that are responsible for inflammation. It may also help with memory loss as you age and fight the bad bacteria that lurk in your gut.  Coconut oil and related MTC oil are two of the most popular fats for people following the ketogenic diet.  This eating plan offers benefits related to reducing Alzheimer’s risk due to ketone bodies having a neuroprotective impact on the aging brain cells.

13. Egg Yolks - we're not yolking!

Image source / RedditEgg yolks were on the nutritional naughty list for years but are finally now experiencing their well deserved day in the sun!  If you’ve been having only egg whites, the yolk is on you.  Yolks contain large amounts of choline which helps in foetal brain development for pregnant women.  if possible, buy organic, free range eggs.

14. Salmon - and all oily fish

Image source / RedditSalmon is one of the most nutritious brain foods around.  It’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids to help keep your brain running smoothly.  It can also help with brain fog and improve memory.  It is thought that feeding kids oily fish may help prevent ADHD, by improving their focus.

15. Extra Virgin Olive Oil - top of the list of brain foods

Image source / RedditReal extra virgin olive oil  is among the top recommended brain foods because of its powerful antioxidants besides healthy mono-unsaturated fats. It’s a staple ingredient in the Mediterranean diet and the related MIND diet, of which studies show patterns that are associated with cognitive benefits amongst older people.

16. Kale - protein and vitamins so a win win

Image source / RedditEating just one and a half servings of leafy green vegetables like kale every day, could slow the decline of brain function in older adults.  Studies have found that certain nutrients associated with good brain health — lutein, nitrate, vitamin K, and folate — are brimming out of this leafy green.

17. Green Tea - contains powerful antioxidants

Image source / RedditThe phytochemicals contained in green tea contribute towards it's bitter taste but these are also powerful antioxidants, protecting the brain from neuro-degenerative disease or damage.  Studies have shown that drinking green tea protects against free radicals and may provide some protection against Parkinson’s disease.

18. Soy - it has it all

Image source / Celestial PeachThis nutrient-dense source of protein contains large amounts of fatty acids, polyunsaturated fats, fiber, vitamins and minerals.  Studies over the last 20 years have indicated that the isoflavones in soy could reduce the risk of cognitive function decline in older women.

19. Whole Grains

Image source / RedditWhole grains can be found in lots of everyday foods such as bread, pasta, brown rice, oatmeal and bulgur wheat.  They contain vitamin E which is used to protect and preserve healthy cells.  In protecting these cells, vitamin E can help preserve brain function and prevent neuro-degeneration.

20. Bone Broth - for gut and brain health

Image source / RedditIf you are looking for the ultimate food for healing your gut and help heal your brain, look no further than bone meal. This ancient food is full of benefits, ranging from boosting your immune system to overcoming a leaky gut, improving joint health and overcoming food allergies.  Its high levels of proline and glycine help keep the immune system functioning properly and assist in improving memory.

21.  Green Leafy Vegetables - spinach and chard

Image source / RedditLeafy greens such as spinach and chard could help keep dementia at bay, according to new research.  The study evaluated the eating habits and mental ability of 100 older adults over a period of 5 years.  Those who ate the dark greens at least twice a day experienced slower mental deterioration.

22. Rosemary - eyesight and brain health

Image source / RedditWe already knew that rosemary oil contained a variety of benefits but the herb does, too! One of the main ingredients in rosemary, carnosic acid can help protect the brain from neuro-degeneration. It does this by protecting the brain against chemical free radicals, linked to Alzheimer’s, strokes and natural aging in the brain.

23. Turmeric - could have amazing benefits for you

Image source / RedditIsn’t it great when a simple spice has such amazing benefits? That’s the case with turmeric, an ancient root that has been used for its healing properties since time began.  A chemical found in turmeric contains a powerful and natural anti-inflammatory agent.  Start your day with this incredible brain food by eating turmeric eggs and turmeric tea.

24. Pumpkin Seeds - contains mad amount of zinc

Image source / RedditPumpkin seeds are extremely rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids and zinc. Data has shown that these seeds consist of  73 percent unsaturated fats, which play a rule in reducing any inflammation.  The fats can help keep the frontoparietal region, the section of the brain known for problem solving, with sufficient fluid to improve efficiency.

25. Oatmeal - protecting the heart and the brain

Image source / RedditConsuming at least three servings of whole grains, such as oatmeal, is tied to slower rates of decline in memory and cognitive function, according to a Current Development in Nutrition study.   Whole grains protect the blood vessel system in the heart which, in turn, protects the brain.

26. Sweet Potatoes - could improve your memory

Image source / Sustained KitchenSweet potatoes, also known as yams,  are a wonderful source of vitamin C, vitamin A, magnesium and antioxidants that may improve mood, memory, and stress-related issues.  They maintain the maximum amount of nutrients when baked in the oven, skin on, as opposed to steaming or boiling, which may affect all the goodness they contain.

27. Lentils - try the sweet red ones

Image source / RedditLentils are a great source of iron, protein, fiber, zinc and potassium.  Red lentils tend to be sweeter and a little nuttier than other varieties of lentils and they are generally easier to digest.  you can enjoy them cooked in a stew or soup with some vegetables for a  great brain-boosting dinner that is also good for your heart!

28. Quinoa - consume it even if you can't pronounce it!

Image source / RedditQuinoa is a well known source of plant-based protein that can be fantastic for your body. It is high in magnesium, manganese, iron and potassium, and is great for your energy levels as well as muscle cells.  Quinoa’s B vitamin and magnesium content, with its protein content, make it a fabulous brain food.

29. Milk - don't under-estimate it

Image source / RedditThis dairy drink provides choline, a nutrient that is important for brain health.  Pregnant women should focus on choline because it plays a role in the early brain development of infants.  In a handful of observational studies , milk has been connected to cognitive performance in adults.

30. Ground flaxseed - great for vegans

Image source / RedditFlaxseed is a good way for both vegetarians and vegans to add healthy fats to their diet. A 2016 study in Advances in Nutrition suggests that the compounds in flaxseeds could have a positive impact on Alzheimer's disease.  Sprinkle a tablespoon of the seeds over a salad or mix with a smoothie.

31. Oranges - crammed with antioxidants

Image source / RedditOranges are rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that fights off free radicals that could damage brain cells.  A  study in 2017 showed young adults who drank half a litre of orange juice, had greater blood flow to the brain.  Older adults who drank the same amount over an 8 week period, showed improved overall brain function.

32. Beans - good for your heart and brains

Image source / RedditBeans are good for a lot of thing, including our brains. They contain something called folate which is super important for our brain functioning and it is essential for our cognitive functions. Studies have suggested that beans contain more folate than any other food.

33. Bananas - a simple staple not to be underestimated

Image source / RedditBananas are a wonder food. They contain manganese, potassium, vitamin C as well as fibre and they are also thought to improve our memory function. They have a low GI which is a more natural and healthy sugar for your brain which may help it focus better!

34. Low fat cheese - for the cheese lovers

Image source / RedditHere's some great news for the cheese lovers out there, it has some real health benefits. Some researchers have suggested that the naturally occurring low fat cheeses may contain antioxidants which could really boost our brains and help maintain its overall health.

35. Peppers - especially bell peppers

Image source / RedditBell peppers contain a kind of naturally occurring chemical which prevents the oxidation of the good fats in our brains. So essentially, they may be extremely beneficial for ensuring we keep our brains ticking over in order. They also contain B6 which is considered very important for brain health.

36. Carrots - not just good for the eyes

Image source / RedditCarrots often get overlooked because they are a typical staple vegetable in our diets. But they are super healthy and great for our brains. They are even thought to improve the health of our brain, improve our memory and even fight against brain diseases such as Alzheimer's.

37. Almond milk - the unsweetened kind

Image source / RedditAlmond milk is a great alternative to dairy milk, or just a great way to change up and vary your milks. If you opt for the unsweetened kind it could be doing you a whole lot of benefits for your brain. This is because it is full of Vitamin E which is considered to be an antioxidant that really helps your brain.

38. Apples - an apple a day

Image source / RedditWe've all heard the saying. And although it can't be taken literally, what we can conclude is that they are very good for us. It is even thought that eating apples may actually help to produce new brain cells which in tur n may improve cognitive functions as well as memory.

39. Brussel sprouts - love them or hate them

Image source / RedditBrussel sprouts are a divisive topic. But, whether you think they're great or think the gross, either way they may be amazing for our health. They contain folate and vitamin B12 which may work together to help our brains and fight against cognitive decline!

40. Cherries - contain important chemicals

Image source / RedditCherries have long since been linked with brain health due to the anthocyanins they contain - which is also the substance that makes them red. According to one study consuming cherries daily can increase the memory and verbal skills of those suffering with dementia.

41. Lemon and limes - it's bitter sweet

Image source / RedditLemon and limes may help towards your brain health because of the specific chemicals they contain which are thought to actually protect your brain from toxins in your body. So, they may help against the decline of our brain health and reduce the likelihood of Parkinson's and Alzheimer's.

42. Peas - yes peas

Image source / RedditWho knew this tiny little vegetable could be packed with so many things; pantothenic acid, acetylcholine, vitamin C, niacin, thiamine and more. These are supposed to help our brain repair when we sleep and even help control our brains during that period.

43. Tuna - straight from the tin

Image source / RedditTuna is one of those fishes which is easier to consume, as most of us eat it from a tin. It has been studied as playing an important part in the health of our brain. Just be sure to watch out for the mercury content which some fish can contain as this can have a detrimental effect.

44. Tomatoes - economic and super healthy

Image source / RedditTomatoes contain lycopene and beta-carotene which are two very important antioxidants which are seen to be extremely beneficial for our overall brain health. And best of all, they are economical and we probably consume them far more than we even realise...passata for example!

45. Grapes - especially the red ones

Image source / RedditEating grapes may really help to improve our memory as well as our overall cognitive functions. In fact studies have shown that people who eat grapes daily in some form showed an improvement in a variety of cognitive skills tests, compared to those who did not.

46. Yoghurt - the naturally unsweetened kind

Image source / RedditYoghurt, and in particular Greek yoghurt is a great thing to eat when you are trying to help the health of your brain. In fact it may actually help protect the cells of our brains, and the cells of course are essential to the workings of our brain. It's also full of vitamins, protein and calcium!

47. Tofu - great the vegans

Image source / RedditGood news vegans, because tofu is not only a great meat alternative it may also have some great brain benefits. Some studies have shown that tofu may help against cognitive decline in terms of memory loss. However, tofu remains a controversial topic in terms of it's pros and cons.

48. Pomegranates - they're worth the work

Image source / RedditSo, pomegranates are quite fiddly and not the easiest fruit to consume. But according to research it has been claimed that pomegranates can improve our memory and help fight against memory loss. And, it is thought that they may protect our brains against damage.

49. Asparagus - strong in taste and health benefits

Image source / RedditAsparagus are packed full of vitamins and may do wonders for our bodies and also our brains. They contain vitamin A, vitamin C, as well as folic acid and much, much more. All of these may really help to work towards a healthy brain with healthy cognitive functions.

50. White meats - turkey and chicken

Image source / RedditThis one may surprise some people, but white meats are a good source of lean protein - they have very little fat. They also contain essential vitamins and are thought to play an important role in our cognitive health as well as protecting us from the risk of brain decline.