The Real Deal on Brain Foods: Do They Work?
By Genevieve Cunningham
If there were a magic pill that you could take and suddenly know everything, would you do it? Of course you would! While most of us would love a little Limitless type of pill, the truth is that no such shortcut to knowledge really exists. We know what we know as the result of hard work and dedication. And yet, the market and media are still inundated with information regarding superfoods for the brain. Eat these foods and boost brain power. Try this recipe and do better on your exam. It’s everywhere! But, is it true? Is there any truth behind the food-brain link?
The Link
OK, brace yourself. There is not a magic food to make you smarter. For some, that probably hurts a little, as it’s really nice to think about eating a certain diet and pounding out solid work as a result. But don’t get too discouraged; there are certain foods that may very well keep your brain healthier and therefore boost function. These foods aren’t magic. They just contain certain nutrients that are especially good for your brain. To improve your diet and boost brain function, just add some or all of these foods to your regular diet.
The Foods
Though this list is not extensive, it provides a small guide to eating for brain health.
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Oily Fish - Salmon, trout, and sardines are just three examples of oily fish that may be good for the brain. The brain needs essential fatty acids in order to function at optimal level, and your body doesn’t produce these essentials on its own. You have to get it through diet. Oily fish contains high amounts of these nutrients, so by eating these on a regular basis, you’re supplying your brain with enough nutrients to keep it at its healthiest.
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Pumpkin Seeds - This food has long been known to help with hormones, but it’s also a great food for the brain. Pumpkin seeds are high in zinc, which is essential for boosting memory. Just grab a bag at the store, drizzle them with olive oil and sea salt, and roast them in the oven for a brain boosting snack.
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Nuts - Many kinds of nuts such as walnuts and almonds contain high amounts of Vitamin E. This vitamin is thought to ward off cognitive decline. By eating it on the regular, you may help keep cognitive abilities in better shape and prevent some of the natural deterioration that happens with age.
If you want to be at your sharpest mentally, your best bet is to study hard and experience life. But, you can also enhance your abilities by including some specific foods in your diet. Use these foods as a guide, and boost both your general health and your brain all in one fell swoop.