Ever wondered what foods can help improve one's memory and nourish the brain? London-based nutritionist Cassandra Barns has recommended six super foods that can actually boost people's brain power.
1. Salmon
The first food she recommended are oily fish such as salmon, because it is high in omega-3 fatty acids called DHA. "It's a true brain superfood," Barns told the Daily Mail.
She said DHA is found in high levels in the gray matter of people's brain, which proves that people need lots of it for the brain to function well.
2. Pumpkin Seeds
Next, Barns recommended nutritious seeds such as pumpkin seeds because they are rich in zinc, a vital nutrient for cognitive function. Pumpkin seeds are high in magnesium as well, which helps boost nerve signals around the body.
3. Eggs
The third thing Barns suggested for a brain boost are eggs. Not only are eggs good for the brain, they are also rich in B vitamins and iron, which help support the nervous system and cognitive function.
4. Seaweeds
Meanwhile, seaweeds are a surprising food that have health-boosting minerals such as iodine. Iodine plays an integral part in the health of the nervous system and brain, since it boosts cognitive function.
Seaweed might be difficult to incorporate in one's diet, but there are a lot of tasty seaweed snacks that are being sold in supermarkets nowadays. "As a tasty way to include it in your diet, try snacking on Clearspring's Seaveg Crispies," said Barns.
5. Dark Chocolate
The next food Barns recommended isn't difficult to eat. In fact, a lot of people would be thrilled to know dark chocolate made it to the list. Cacao — the raw and pure version of cocoa — is actually high in flavonols, which have powerful antioxidant effects for the brain.
Research shows that flavonols can protect people against Alzheimer's disease. Plus, cacao is high in magnesium, iron and zinc — all of which support the nervous system and brain.
However, Barns has a caveat: "Avoid those with a high sugar content, as you'll be doing your brain more harm than good. Instead, go for a high-cocoa chocolate – at least 70 per cent cocoa. And for maximum benefits, choose a bar made with raw cacao."
6. Blueberries
Lastly, Barns said eating blueberries can be beneficial in supporting brain health into old age. Blueberries contain polyphenols, which experts believe protect people from oxidative stress and inflammation — two things that lead to brain deterioration.
