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14 Unique Foods to Enhance Your Brain Performance

Your brain requires nutrients just like any other part of the body such as the lungs, heart, and muscle.  Therefore, you need to make an initiative of supplying your grey matter (the term used by some people to refer to the brain) with the right kind of nutrients. There are kinds of food when eaten will automatically enhance your brain performance.

Which are these foods?
                                             
1.      Whole Grains 

Your brain needs energy to operate effectively. The ability of a brain to remain focused depends on how steady it’s supplied with energy. The energy comes inform of glucose. This can be achieved by taking whole grains that release glucose slowly into your bloodstream.  You can use ‘Brown ‘wholegrain rice, granary bread, pasta and cereals.

2.      Blueberries

Research and evidence provided at Tufts University in the United States indicates that the intake of blueberries may play a role in delaying or improving memory loss.  They are widely available all over the world. They contain an important compound called anthocyanin (purple, dark red fruits and veg also contain this) which is the protective agent to enhance your brain.


3.      Tomatoes
 
There is well-researched evidence indicating that lycopene, an antioxidant found in tomatoes, can protect the brain from free radical damage of the cells. This occurs particularly in the development of Alzheimer’s. Cooked tomatoes can work out well; add some olive oil to enhance absorption.


4.      Oily Fish


The body cannot produce enough Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) and therefore it relies on diet to supplement this. One of the common EFA is the omega-3fat. These fats are essential for proper brain functionality. The main source of oily fish includes trout, salmon, herring, mackerel, pilchards, kippers and sardines. If you are vegetarian, consider using omega -3 fatty acids supplements.


5.      Blackcurrant

It has good amount of vitamin C which enhances the agility and activeness of the brain. It also shields against age related brain deterioration including Alzheimer’s and dementia.



6.      Broccoli


It is a great source of vitamin K which improves cognitive ability of the brain.  Research also proves that broccoli contain compounds known as glucosinolates which assists in slowing the breakdown of acetylcholine (neurotransmitter). The neurotransmitter is needed for effective central nervous system operation and sharp memory.  Alzheimer’s is associated with reduced levels of acetylcholine.


7.      Pumpkin Seeds

They contain high levels of zinc more than any other seeds. Zinc is responsible for proper thinking and memory. They also contain magnesium, well for reducing stress plus tryptophan and vitamin B, the precursor to serotonin (chemical responsible for good mood).


8.      Sage


Most of the research has focused sage as an essential oil. However, it has great potentials of enhancing your brain concentration and memory. It has also the role of breaking down bethane (it produces hormones associated with happiness).  Can eggs make you happy? Yes! Make sure the eggs are free-range and organic.



Note

Have you run away from eggs due to cholesterol presence? Studies have indicated that consuming eggs has no effect on the level of cholesterol in healthy adults. It increases the good cholesterol instead.

9.      Rosemary

The herb has carnosic acid in high levels. The acid protects the brain from free chemical radicals that are associated with stroke, Alzheimer’s and neurodegeneration. It also contains anti-inflammatory components and antioxidants.


10.  Extra Virgin Olive Oil


It has amazing antioxidants called polyphenols which improves memory and also reverses the brain degeneration related to age.  It also helps protect the brain from toxic proteins.

It is not advisable to cook extra virgin oil with high temperatures as it hydrogenizes and begins decomposing. You can eat it cold or at room temperature.


11.  Turmeric

It is one of the great ancient spices that have amazing health benefits. Its miracle properties are attributed to a chemical compound called curcumin. The spice acts as the most natural and powerful anti-inflammatory agents. It raises the antioxidant levels and improves your immunity. It also helps increase the brain oxygen intake rate thus keeping you alert.


12. Pomegranate Juice

Pomegranate juice plus other antioxidant juices are worth considering in your diet.  Research has shown that pomegranate juice has the ability to increase memory of people reporting mild memory lose. The polyphenols available are the main reason the juice has the attribute. Include pomegranate juice in your diet and monitor your brain performance.



13. Avocado

According to research, avocados have high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids and are responsible for signal transmission in the brain. This makes you think faster and be alert always.


14. Celery

It is a low calorie food rich in flavonoid luteolin, which studies have proved to increase memory in aged mice. I know it’s not a human being. However, it’s well known flavonoids boosts brain performance in a significant manner.





Bottom Line

There is a significance relationship between nutrients and brain performance. It’s therefore important to consider your diet components for a healthy brain performance. These foods are available naturally and can be found in different groceries or supermarkets. They will go in a long way to improving your brain activity.

For one reason or another, you are unable to have a good diet, you may consider multivitamins and omega- 3fatty acids supplements.


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