When it comes to your brain, the old saying, “You are what you eat”, still holds true.  We can greatly improve our mental ability by learning the best foods to eat.

Eating the best brain foods will improve our concentration, sharpen our memory and help reduce the impact of age-related diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s.

Keep your mind sharp with the 5 best foods to eat

The great news is that the best foods to eat to make your brain sharper are simple, readily available and yummy!

Here are the best foods to eat for your brain:

1.  Blueberries

Are blueberries a super food or what?  They were also included in The Eight Best Foods To Eat Every Day!  Just one cup of these tiny berries a day packs a wallop in terms of nutrition for the brain.  Studies have shown that they help protect the brain from the negative chemical effects of stress that may assist in reducing the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s.  Doctors also believe blueberries can improve both learning capacity and motor skills!  So, go ahead and toss a handful of blueberries into your yogurt or cereal each morning.

2.  Almonds

Almonds have been shown to be another potent brain food.  Just an ounce a day of almonds provides you with a healthy treat that your brain will thank you for.  Almonds have been shown to contain many nutrients that improve brain function keeping you sharper and more alert.  Scientists also believe that a diet rich in almonds may have a positive effect on memory function.

3.  Wild Salmon

Fish rich in Omega-3 fatty acids like salmon are terrific treats for the brain!  Salmon has been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain, improve moods and contribute to overall healthy brain function.  Numerous studies have shown that eating about 4 ounces of wild salmon 2 to 3 times per week significantly reduces the risk of dementia and Alzheimer’s!  Wild salmon is preferred due to its lowest traces of environmental toxins.

4.  Green Tea

Okay, I’ll admit you usually drink tea instead of eating it.  However, the benefits of green tea to the brain are too great to leave it off the list on a technicality.  Drinking two cups of green tea a day is tied to the lowest risk for cognitive impairment in older adults.  It can also protect you against Parkinson’s and other brain disorders.  Studies have shown that green tea boosts dopamine levels which is critical for positive mood states and smooth muscle function.

5.  Dark Chocolate

I saved the best for last!  I’m a chocolate fanatic so this one really excites me.  A half ounce to one ounce of dark chocolate a day will give you the maximum benefit.  The small amount of caffeine in dark chocolate will help your concentration and focus.  It is a great mid-morning pick-me-up!  In addition, dark chocolate stimulates the production of endorphins in the brain which improves mood.  It also contains powerful antioxidants which aids blood flow critical to peak brain performance.  I love it!

Five simple, tasty foods that will make your brain sharper

These truly are the best foods to eat to improve brain function and to protect against many of the mental ailments that come with aging.  Include these five super brain foods in your diet and you’ll be doing yourself a huge favor.  It is easy and it will pay off big rewards!

Note: I am not a doctor or healthcare professional. I am simply passing along what I’ve read from credible sources. You should consult your doctor before making any changes to your diet or exercise regimen!

Photo by maveric2003