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Since the third grade, we’ve been told the importance of a balanced diet, but most of us still fail to maintain one. Instead of eating everything that is good for every different body part and organ, why not focus on the most important one and get it all? And it’s none other than our brain. The most powerful thing to exist in our body. 

These six food items listed below are healthy and delicious, so don’t forget to try them:

Oily Fish

Our list will be incomplete with this nutrient-packed seafood. Oily/fatty fish like salmon, trout, sardines, tuna, and mackerel best fit this category. Since our brain is about 60% fat and oily fish are highly rich in Omega-3 fats, they are ideal for regenerating the fat around brain cells. This layer of fat around cells is used up in brain functions, for example, learning, thinking, and memory. 

Moreover, fatty fish also helps prevent age-related brain diseases, mostly Alzheimer’s disease, dementia, and memory issues. It will help you cope up with depression and mood swings since its responsible for increasing the gray area in your brain. And the gray area mainly consists of nerves responsible for your memory, emotions, and impulse control.

Green leafy vegetable

Green leafy vegetables like kale, spinach, and broccoli are abundant in vitamin K, lutein, folate, and beta carotene. These nutrients are extremely beneficial for reducing the effect of cognitive decline and protecting your brain against damage with improved memory.

Berries

Most known amongst the Berry family is blueberry; however, they all are rich in flavonoid antioxidants. Scientific research reveals that antioxidants are useful for reducing inflammation and oxidative tension in our bodies. Along with this, berries also restore the connection between brain cells, increase plasticity for improved learning and memory, and decreasing the chances of neurodegenerative diseases.

Nuts and Seeds

I remember my mother thrusting almonds into my mouth just before I left for school. Back then, I found it annoying, but now I understand why she did that. Nuts like almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, etc. have high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which acts as an anti-aging source for the brain. The nutrients protect the brain cells from oxidative stress that is caused by free radicals. Vitamin E explicitly supports the brain in older age by reducing the risks of Alzheimer’s disease.

Chocolate

Chocolate or more likely dark chocolate has proved to have positive effects on brain activity. Chocolates that have a high cacao content, about 80% or more are known to contain a powerful antioxidant, theobromine. This compound boosts cellular activity and reduces toxins. The caffeine and flavonoids present in chocolate enhance our memory and also acts as a mood booster due to its high sugar content. So chocolate can literally make you happy!

Coffee or Tea

These are probably the most commonly consumed beverages all over the world. With its numerous benefits (if taken in the right amount) and wholesome flavor, they are a great source of caffeine and antioxidants. Coffee/Tea not only serves as a brain alert but simultaneously makes it sharper. During loads of work or a stressful day, a cup of tea or coffee can uplift your mood and give you that energy to do something productive.

I hope we all get through this incredibly heart-breaking global crisis and can find a way or two to distract ourselves while staying at home. Get some much-needed self-reflection and build your brain power while you’re at it. Take care of your loved ones, and stay safe!