These snacks are healthy for the brain.
By PTSDJournal Staff
Blueberries
Research suggests that compounds in blueberries known as flavonoids may improve memory, learning, and general cognitive function, including reasoning skills, decision-making, and verbal skills. Besides, studies comparing dietary habits with cognitive function in adults hint that consuming flavonoids may help slow the mental decline often seen with aging and might even provide protection against Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease.
Sweet Potatoes
It’s safe to say that sweet potatoes are underrated. The average serving of our orange-tinted friends has more fiber than a bowl of oatmeal, more Vitamin A than a cup of carrots, and more potassium than a banana. Sweet potatoes are also rich in beta carotene, which researchers have found to help protect against memory loss and other forms of mental impairment.
Avocados
Everybody knows that avocados are good for you. The alligator pear is sometimes high in fiber, as well as both sodium and cholesterol-free. But it’s the avocado’s omega 3 fatty acid content that makes it one of the top foods for brain health. Being high in vitamin E and folates doesn’t hurt either.
Spinach
For years, Popeye’s favorite snack has delivered brawn more than brains. However, recent research suggests that the high antioxidant content of spinach may have a profound effect on keeping the brain functioning at a high level. Spinach is loaded with beta carotene, lutein, and folates, moving it near the top of any list of healthy brain foods.
Fish
It’s all about the omega 3 fatty acids here. Polyunsaturated fatty acids, like omega 3 and omega 6, help strengthen the synapses in your brain associated with memory, and fish (especially salmon) are filled with them. As a side benefit, fish is known to reduce heart disease.
Beets
Recent research suggests the natural nitrates in beets improve blood flow to the brain, thus boosting mental performance. Also, this magical root vegetable has been shown to help lower blood pressure.