Here's some literal food for thought: The foods you eat can play a role in brain health, impacting not only memory but also all the other body functions your brain controls.
Experts recommend these seven great brain food items for your shopping list:
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1. Coconut oil
Research from a 2011 study showed that using and eating coconut oil improved the brain function of patients with mild Alzheimer’s disease,
Medical Daily reports, calling coconut oil a secondary fuel source for the body behind glucose.
2. Berries
Berries are a great source of antioxidants, which protect the body's cells against damage, but they also may help slow cognitive decline. A
2012 study published in the Annals of Neurologyfound that women who at berries, particularly blueberries and strawberries, at least once a week slowed their cognitive decline by 1.5 to 2.5 years.
3. Nuts
Nuts are high in vitamin E, which is integral to brain health. When the body doesn't have enough vitamin E, "This sets the stage for cellular membrane damage and neuronal death,"
Dr. Maret Traber tells Medical News Today. Traber added that other studies have shown vitamin E intake correlates with the rate of Alzheimer's disease progression.
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4. Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate is tasty antioxidant brain food. It contains caffeine that stimulates the endorphins, leading to better focus and concentration,
says WebMD.
5. Avocados
Avocados are often-overlooked food with great nutrients. They have large amount of monounsaturated fat that helps improve memory and decrease bad cholesterol. They also contain high amounts of vitamin K and folate, which can reduce the risk of stroke,
says Harvard Health Publications.
6. Salmon
Salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acid. Sixty percent of the brain is made up of fatty acids,
says Science Line, and two thirds of those acids are docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). Since the body doesn't produce DHA naturally, brain foods such as salmon are very important to in a diet for proper brain function.
7. Beets
Cognitive decline occurs when blood flow decreases as we age. Beets have particular nitrates that increase blood flow and cognitive ability,
says Dr. Mehmet Oz.
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