The need-to-knows:
What makes something a “brain food”?
Some foods, like fish and nuts, are widely-recognized brain foods.
Plus, she adds, this sip positively affects brain functionality.
According to research, green tea is loaded with antioxidants that canimprove cognitive function3andimprove your mood4.
Water
Anotherbrain-healthy beverage thats especially helpful5forachieving focus and combatting brain fogis water.
I feel likewateris overlooked [when it comes to brain food lists], says Maxwell.
(Feel free to give it an upgrade with someherbs or fruit infusions, too!)
Lentils
Lentilscontain fiber, protein, and folateeach of which boasts brain-healthy benefits.
Research shows that those with depression are oftenlow in serum and red blood cell folate6.
The fiber in lentils can alsosupport healthy blood pressure7throughout the body and brain.
Ramsey likes to enjoy them in soups, salads, and side dishes for a tasty brain boost.
This is what makes the plant-based snack so great forcognitive function8.
Just two tablespoons a day may help protect the brain from oxidative stress damage andprevent cognitive decline8.
My favorite way to have walnuts is on top of a salad to add crunch, Avena says.
Kefir
Kefir is fermented milkmade using kefir grains.
It has a similar consistency to thin yogurts and it’s typically sipped, not scooped with a spoon.
Ramsey loves kefir because it’spacked with probioticsthat support microbial diversity in the gut.
And thanks to the gut-brain connection, probiotics seem topositively affect brain neurotransmitter pathways9as well.
Salmon
Fatty fishes likesalmonareloadedwithomega-3 fatty acids, aka nutritions cognitive function superstar.
Harvard-trained nutritional psychiatristUma Naidoo, M.D.recommendsadding them to your weekly dinner menu STAT for supportmood balance and mental resilience10.
Blueberries
You know the saying, An apple a day keeps the doctor away?
It’s no wonder that you’ll find blueberries inNaidoo’s go-to healthy dessert recipe.
As a result, Avena says that eating berries may help improve your motor skills and cognition.
Throw a handful into your oatmeal, smoothies, yogurt, or baked goods for a quick brain boost.
Dark Chocolate
Craving chocolate?
You might want to reach for a piece of dark chocolate or two.
Beans
Beans truly are a magical fruitand not just because oftheir fiber content.
Research also shows legumes are great for cognitive function and preventing cognitive decline, especially inelderly individuals16.
cookies, candy, fast food, etc.)
earn the top slot.
And according to Maxwell, there is no one brain food better than the others.
What foods help with brain fog?
If you notice yourefeeling a bit dehydrated, fill up your largest water bottle and start sipping.
How can I increase my brain cells naturally?
can help youtap into neuroplasticityand produce new brain cells, Ramsey and Maxwell explain.
Hungry for more on this topic?
Here’s a deep dive into how one macronutrient in particularfibercansupport brain health and functioning.
