People frequently promote the statement “you are what you eat.” But more importantly, what you eat can influence your brain and its memory skills. Our bodies are amazing, and what we put in them can powerfully impact overall function.
As you prepare for your semester’s finals, a huge work deadline, or even just your day, you can promote your brain health and memory with these foods.
1. Fish
Fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Approximately 60% of your brain is made of fat, and half of that percentage is specifically made from a kind of fatty acid, omega-3. Your body uses these omega-3s to build brain cells and decrease inflammation which helps with learning and memory.
2. Coffee
We all know that coffee helps to wake up the brain due to caffeine, but coffee also contains antioxidants, which are a compound that protects cells from damage. Caffeine increases alertness, improves mood, and sharpens concentration. If you’re struggling to keep your brain on task, coffee will give your brain a slight boost.
3. Avocados
This power fruit improves brain function due to its high concentration of oleic acid, a monounsaturated fat, and Vitamin K. Oleic acid reduces inflammation. Meanwhile, Vitamin K helps memory and focus while preventing possible blood clots in the brain.
4. Blueberries
These dark violet berries are filled with antioxidants that work to improve brain cell communication. Studies show that blueberries improve memory and sometimes delay short-term memory loss. If you’re cramming for a final or need an extra push for a deadline, these sweet berries are perfect!
5. Turmeric
A deep-yellow spice that’s usually in curry is great for brain health. Turmeric has curcumin in it, which benefits the brain cells by improving memory capacity. Additionally, curcumin also encourages the growth hormone in the brain that grows new brain cells.
6. Broccoli
Chock full of Vitamin K, two cups of broccoli actually exceeds the recommended daily intake for this brain-boosting vitamin. Vitamin K is known to improve cognitive function while another essential nutrient found in broccoli, choline, is said to improve memory.
7. Pumpkin Seeds
Believe it or not, these seeds are stuffed with great nutrients for brain health. Pumpkin seeds contain zinc, magnesium, copper, and iron. These four nutrients help brain function by improving nerve signaling, learning, and clear thinking. These are the perfect brain-boosting snack!
8. Dark Chocolate
America’s favorite candy is crowded with flavonoids, antioxidants, and caffeine, which are all great for brain function. Each of these items improves focus as well as memory. So if you’re studying for a final or need a pick me up, don’t feel bad about reaching for the dark chocolate.
9. Walnuts
Grabbing a handful of walnuts is another great healthy snack option. Nuts are credited with sharpening your memory. Walnuts gain extra points for also offering omega-3 acids.
10. Black Beans
This brain superfood is cheap and great for brain development and memory. Filled with magnesium, which has been proved to help with retaining information, this is a great addition to your meal.
Bonus Brain-Boosting Snacks
Many foods have been shown to improve the brain’s memory capacity. And many also make the perfect healthy snacks. Here are a few more brain-boosting snacks you can depend on:
- Oranges
- Eggs
- Green Tea
- Leafy Greens
Fueling your body with the right nutrients sets you up for success in all areas of your life, whether you're preparing for a final or working with a client at your job. These foods are proven to improve brain health, and they will also keep your body healthy in a stressful time. Now, grab one of these study snacks and get back to work!
