When you think about it, your brain is a pretty important organ. In fact, it’s like the CEO of your body’s corporation. So it’s important you do all you can to keep it healthy and working optimally.
When it comes to the health of our brain, diet cannot be overlooked. There are certain foods that are chockfull of nutrients our brain needs to be healthy, such as antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals.
If you want your brain to be as healthy as possible, then you’ll want to start eating more of the following brain foods:
1. Avocados
Avocados are loaded with monosaturated fat, which is a healthy fat that has been shown to reduce rates of cognitive decline and keep blood sugars nice and steady. And thanks to the vitamin K and folate in avocados, your brain will be protected from blood clots (stroke) and memory loss.
2. Dark Chocolate
Chocolate lovers rejoice! Dark chocolate is actually very good for your overall health, especially the health of your brain. Dark chocolate is full of powerful antioxidants called flavonols, which also have anti-inflammatory properties. Studies have shown cocoa has the ability to increase cerebral blood flow and cerebral blood oxygenation. In addition, it helps lower blood pressure in your brain and heart.
But before you go out and buy a bag full of Snickers, these health benefits just listed come from dark chocolate, not milk chocolate, which is loaded with extra fat and sugar. A good rule of thumb is the darker the chocolate the healthier it is for you! So look for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to reap these brain benefits
3. Eggs
There was a time where eggs were vilified, but new science has proven eggs – yolk and all – are not only healthy but an absolute superfood!
Eggs are an excellent source of several nutrients your brain needs, including vitamins B6 and B12, folate, and choline. Most people don’t get enough choline, and choline is responsible for creating acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate mood and memory.
If you eat more of these 3 foods every week, your brain will thank you! Feel free to reach out to me if you would like to learn more.
Chelsy A. Castro, JD, MA, AM, LCSW
312-766-4612
ccastro@castrojacobs.com
