Your diet can affect a lot more than just your waist line, such as brain power. There are several foods that have been shown to boost memory and reasoning. Here are 5 flavorful foods that can help increase your brain power in a delicious way.
Yes, you read that right. Chocolate, in moderation, can be good for you. Dark chocolate specifically is full of antioxidants. It also contains natural stimulants that have been shown to increase your focus and concentration. Not only does it help you stay focused, a high quality chocolate with at least 70% cocoa can also release endorphins, elevating your mood. Stay away from milk chocolates, or chocolates that are made with more sugar and dairy products than a good dark chocolate bar. You can find delicious dark chocolate bars made with healthy nuts and fruits for an added boost.
Sunflower seeds, cashews, almonds, and sesame seeds all contain high levels of Vitamin E. Vitamin E has been shown in some studies to improve cognition. Pumpkin seeds are a great seasonal food to add, as they contain zinc, a nutrient vital in memory formation and recall. Almonds can also be a great part of a heart and weight healthy diet. Just be sure these are eaten in moderation, as too many can increase your daily fat intake as well. A good rule of thumb is a small handful a day for the most benefit.
Blueberries have been linked to a decrease in Alzheimer's and dementia in the elderly. This super-fruit can also improve motor function, making them a perfect choice for those with arthritis, declining memory, or those who are just wanting to hold off the aging process. Blueberries also contain high levels of Vitamin C and antioxidants, making it healthy to incorporate into any diet.
For many years the avocado was avoided by those watching their weight because of the high amount of fat. In recent years, however, it has been shown that the fat in avocado isn't the kind that adds to your waist line. In fact, the avocado can help lower blood pressure and decrease the risk of stroke. The brain boosting Vitamins will help you stay focused, and the filling nature of an avocado will help decrease the hunger pains between meals.
The oily fish has a reputation for being healthy. This is thanks to the DHA and Omega 3's found in some cold water fish. Salmon can help aid in the development of memory, stave off short term memory loss, and some studies have shown it could slow down the onset of Alzheimer's.
Many herbs can be easily incorporated to a daily diet. Sage has been shown in some studies to help increase memory and focus. Sage can be cooked in almost any food, but is especially delicious when used as a dry rub on meat, or added in to a side of vegetables.