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Superfoods to Support the Brain

Your brain needs healthy foods. What we eat affects how we think and how we feel. There’s even evidence that consuming certain foods may help protect the brain. But no one food will prevent dementia or protect memory as we age — the brain needs a variety of fruits, vegetables, proteins and carbohydrates to function best. Check out these foods, recipes, videos and more to help create your own “super-diet.” Make sure you talk to your doctor about any changes to your diet.

 

10 Terrific Foods for Brain Health

Packed with healthy fats, vitamins, minerals, micronutrients and antioxidants, these nutrition boosters could be great additions to your diet.

  • Kale: Nutrients in this long-stemmed leafy green may help slow the loss of memory and thinking skills that typically come with age.

  • Eggs: Egg yolks are rich in vitamin D, which research has found may help protect against memory loss and forgetfulness.

  • Avocados: This fruit provides B vitamins that studies have found may boost mood, reduce anxiety and relieve irritability.

  • Lemons and limes: A naturally occurring compound in citrus fruits may help safeguard the brain's nerve cells.

  • Walnuts: Munching on walnuts may help enhance mental abilities such as thinking and reasoning.

  • Beans: Black, green, white or spotted beans contain a folate (vitamin B9) that may help guard against memory loss.

  • Blueberries: Brightly colored berries play a role in improving communication between brain cells.

  • Rolled oats: Rolled oats and other whole grains provide a steady supply of glucose to fuel the brain.

  • Extra-virgin olive oil: Compounds found in this oil may increase mental focus and slow a decline in thinking skills, researchers say.

  • Coffee and tea: Several studies suggest that these freshly brewed drinks may slow brain aging, improve mood and protect memory.

 

Recipes

Colorful vegetables, tangy fruits, whole-grain breads, eggs and more should be a routine part of your daily fare. Here are some delicious ways to get started.

How to Prep A Week of Mediterranean Lunches

Chopped Salad with Salmon & Creamy Garlic Dressing

Coconut-Blueberry Green Smoothie

Kale Salad with Preserved Lemon & Walnuts

Balsamic & Parmesan Roasted Broccoli

Rainbow Buddha Bowl with Cashew Tahini Sauce

 

Eat Right for Brain Function, Health and Memory

Discover how the right foods can help reduce inflammation, balance your gut and strengthen the immune system. Plus, learn how to make healthy, delicious choices.

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Research has found that eating a Mediterranean diet over other certain foods may help protect your brain against dementia.

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articles
The Right Amount of Protein to Feed Brain and Body

Experts say many older adults may need to get more protein than the recommended dietary allowance to help our brains and bodies as we age.

Challenges

Added to Favorites

Favorite removed

articles
7 Foods That Fight Inflammation

Inflammation can be harmful to the brain. Research shows these seven anti-inflammatory foods in your diet may help protect your memory and thinking skills.

Challenges

Added to Favorites

Favorite removed

articles
Why Eating Fish May Impact Brain Health

People who eat baked or broiled fish at least once a week may improve their brain health and cut the risk of developing memory problems or brain diseases.

Challenges

Added to Favorites

Favorite removed

articles
Research Suggests Link Between Citrus and Brain Health

A study suggests that eating a daily orange could keep your brain healthier as you age by helping to reduce the dementia risk.

Challenges

Added to Favorites

Favorite removed

articles
6 Foods Rich in Brain-Boosting Vitamin E

Research has shown that diets rich in vitamin E are associated with a lower risk of cognitive decline. Try these six foods to help top up your levels.

Challenges

Added to Favorites

Favorite removed

articles
5 Food Choices to Support Brain Health

Healthy foods can help support brain function. Here are five small changes to your diet that may have a major impact on brain health.

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