Brain Boosting Foods

It’s no secret that nutrition and health are intrinsically connected. As the saying goes, you are what you eat, and the choices you make can have a significant impact on your cognitive and physical health.

As the population grays and more and more people are experiencing some form of cognitive decline, now is the perfect time to reassess your own diet - or that of the seniors in your life. What simple changes can you make to boost your brain power?

Brain-Healthy Foods to Incorporate in Your Diet

You may have some idea of which foods can bolster your brain health. Fish, for example, has long been touted as the ultimate brain food. But there are many other ingredients that can support healthy, robust brain function.

Some appetizing foods that also bolster your brain include:

• Whole grains
  By choosing brown rice and whole grains for bread and pasta, you can easily incorporate more brain-boosting nutrients in your meals. MedicalNewsToday notes whole grains are a bountiful source of vitamin E, which is an antioxidant associated with brain health.

• Berries
  Blueberries are an undisputed superfood due to their antioxidants, but plenty of other berries can pack a powerful punch against cognitive decline. Strawberries and blackberries are also a delicious way to boost your brain.

• Olive oil
  Prepare your meals with extra virgin olive oil to build your cognitive fortitude. Research has shown olive oil has properties that combat proteins linked to Alzheimer’s disease. It’s also part of the Mediterranean-DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay or MIND diet designed to promote brain health.

• Coffee
  Studies have shown coffee may help with information processing. Drinking coffee long-term is linked to a lower risk of cognitive decline. That is, as long as it doesn’t keep you up all night.

• Chocolate
  Dark chocolate is another enticing source of antioxidants, which can protect the brain from oxidative stress that contributes to cognitive decline. What better reason to treat yourself to a sweet treat after dinner?

• Nuts and seeds
  Snacking on handfuls of nuts and seeds can boost your intake of antioxidants including vitamin E as well as omega-3 fatty acids. Opt for raw, unsalted options if possible to avoid the excess sodium.

• Spinach and other leafy greens
  Leafy greens are also a hallmark of the MIND diet thanks to their high nutrient content. Add more spinach, kale, and other greens for another helping of vitamin E, folates, and other nutrients.

• Certain meat substitutes
  Embrace lentils, soybeans, and other common meat alternatives for a protein source that is also rich in brain-boosting Vitamin-B.

Helping Our Clients Eat Well Every Day

At Visiting Angels^®, we help seniors experience the highest quality of life, and maintaining a consistent, nutritious diet is a cornerstone of a happier, healthier lifestyle. Our home care services include grocery shopping and meal preparation to help seniors eat well.