Seven foods that make you smarter (according to science)

It is common to have a generalized idea of the foods you need to eat to stay healthy and keep your health in shape – but certain foods can contribute to your brain. They can help you boost your focus, reduce instances of fatigue, boost your memory, and reduce or relieve stressful moments.

An instance includes green leafy vegetables such as broccoli and spinach, which contain choline, helping the brain combat memory loss in the long term. Strawberries and blueberries prove to reduce cognitive declines, according to some scientific studies.

It is important to know the foods to select to eat and get smarter – just like knowing your strategy to win a card game in the best New Zealand casinos. The smarter you choose your foods, the better it will be for your brain – and you should begin the process sooner rather than later. Here are some foods you need to start incorporating into your diet if you have not done so.

Salmon

You have probably heard at this point how fish is good for your brain, but cold water fish are even more so. Among them is salmon, although other fish, such as cod and sardines, exist.

In particular, salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which is crucial to maintaining brainpower for longer. The less omega-3 you get from your diet, the more chances you feel tired, increased mood swings, and poor memory. Since the body cannot manufacture this nutrient independently, obtaining it from food is important.

It is important to note something – you would rather choose wild salmon than farmed salmon since the levels of Omega-3s are significantly higher. If you cannot get salmon, you can opt for halibut or tuna since they carry the same benefits.

Avocado

If you have never tried avocados before, you are missing out on many health benefits for your heart and brain. They do not just give you a delicious and creamy flavor in your food or on their own -they also give your brain a boost, as proven by scientific studies.

Some research showed that avocados carry a high level of monosaturated fatty acids, which play a major role in maintaining brain cells’ vitality. Every avocado serving also has at least 15 different vitamins and minerals, such as potassium (which controls blood pressure) and lutein (which protects your eyes).

However, you do not need to add so much of them to your meal because of their high-calorie content. A quarter or half serving is usually enough for each meal every day.

Nuts

If you want Vitamin E boosts, nuts are among your best bets. Some studies suggest that they protect against cognitive decline, especially age-related. They are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, so they can be an alternative to salmon.

Even though all nuts are good for your health in general, the most significant nuts in terms of nutrients are walnuts, which boost your productivity. Also, they contain Vitamin B6, which the brain uses to make norepinephrine and serotonin, vital neurotransmitters.

Leafy greens such as broccoli and spinach

When looking at brain power food, never underestimate the benefits of dark leafy greens – they are powerhouses of nutritional value. The two leafy vegetables, broccoli and spinach, protect the brain against cognitive deficits and age-related problems. All dark leafy greens are also abundant in iron, which the body uses to make hemoglobin – essential for moving oxygen to the body cells and muscles.

Without hemoglobin, the body lacks sufficient oxygen because of the lack of red blood cells, affecting energy levels.

Berries (various types)

Berries are not just tasty snacks you occasionally have; they show powerhouses of brain nutrients. For instance, a recent study in 2012 on the effects of berry consumption on the brain revealed that eating strawberries and blueberries reduced cognitive decline in older adults.

This could be because berries tend to have high levels of antioxidants known as flavonoids. These are responsible for the body’s many benefits, as they have antimicrobial, antihistamine, mood improvement, and memory enhancement properties.

Blueberries consistently prove to have higher antioxidant levels. These antioxidants help guard cells against damage from free radicals (major causes of cancer and increased aging rates of the body, organs, and skin). They also are lower in calories, as one cup contains less than 100 calories.

Red wine

Now, this may be controversial, as opinion on the benefits of red wine is still as polarizing as ever. However, the short-term benefits of it are still there to see – especially when done in moderation, so you can opt for a glass the next time you go out to eat.

Aside from being healthy for your heart, red wine also contains resveratrol, a nutrient that might be associated with increases in longevity. However, since many studies on red wine benefits have been done on animals, more must be done to determine its usefulness.

You should also consume red wine in moderation. Remember, it is still alcohol and can slow down your brain’s ability to function at its best because of the changes in neurotransmitter levels. This will affect your thought processes and body reactions.

Beans

These might be the last foods to look at on the list. Still, they contain a highly efficient blend of protein and complex carbohydrates, which reduces fatigue and stabilizes glucose levels.

Final thoughts

Increasing your brain power is good for you. After all, you are what you eat – and for you to ensure a productive lifestyle, you need to consider the kind of substances you are taking in.