Give your brain a little boost
Everyone has memory lapses here and there. But for some people, memory loss can become a real medical problem. When memory loss starts to disrupt your daily life, this is a sign that it might be an overlooked symptom of a dangerous disease like Alzheimer’s or dementia. Luckily, there are some things you can do to lower your risk of not only those diseases, but also the memory loss that comes naturally with age.
Incorporating more of these nutritious foods into your diet could help to fight memory loss.
Almonds
Looking for a brain-boosting snack? Almonds (which are actually considered fruits, not nuts) are your answer. Research published in the Brain Research Bulletin shows that almonds can help enhance memory function. They also contain large amounts of vitamin E, which has been shown to play a significant role in preventing cognitive decline.
Avocado
Avocados contain large amounts of monounsaturated fats, which you should eat more of for a few important reasons. One is that fats offer a boost to your brain. A review from the Canadian Journal of Psychiatry showed that monounsaturated fats are essential to healthy brain function. And a study in the journal Pharmacological Reviews showed the anti-inflammatory effects these fats have on the brain, which can be protective against cognitive decline. Like almonds, avocados are also rich in vitamin E, which is another great reason to eat avocado every day.
Blueberries
Blueberries, which are good for your heart, can also help preserve your brain health. A study published in the journal Nutritional Neuroscience showed that supplementing with blueberry extract reduced the severity of age-related declines in certain brain functions.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a healthy green vegetable that works amazingly in salads for all seasons, creamy soups and hearty pasta dishes. But no matter how you choose to eat it, you can’t go wrong adding more broccoli to your diet. Broccoli contains vitamin K, which a study linked to a lower incidence of memory loss in older adults. The vegetable may also have anti-inflammatory benefits, according to research published in BioMed Research International. These benefits can reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia.
Coffee
Here’s something you might not know about coffee: It’s really good for you. There are a number of significant health benefits, and improving your brain health is one of them. A study published in the journal Practical Neurology linked increased caffeine consumption with a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease. So you can feel good about your decision to drink more coffee next time you get your fix from your favorite coffee shop.
Source:The Daily Meal
