What you decide to eat every day does not only affect your weight: It can have an impact on how your brain functions now and 30 years from now.
Our brains’ neurons do not usually work as well as we age, and we can help to improve this situation by adding healthy foods to our diets including the following:
Olive Oil
A clinical study in 2012 suggested that the antioxidants in extra virgin olive oil may boost learning and memory. It also is one of the cornerstones of a heart-healthy diet. Try to drizzle olive oil on your salads and vegetables, and saute meats with olive oil, too.
Lentils
Another study found in 2013 that B vitamins can help to stop the brain shrinking that happens in Alzheimer’s patients. These legumes are full of healthy B vitamins, and they are very easy to eat. Try to boil lentils for 20 minutes with garlic, cinnamon and oregano. Then drain and use them to top off your salads.
Beets
Nitrates in beets boost blood flow to the brain. And this affects how well the brain functions. Beets also are high in folate and B9, both of which may delay dementia as you get older.
Try to roast beets and put them into a salad with goat cheese. Delicious!
Kale
This dark, leafy green is full of 45 different antioxidants as well as vitamin K, both of which are good for memory. Try to use kale in your salads rather than romaine lettuce. You also can blend some kale into your morning smoothie.
Cauliflower
This vegetable is full of folate and vitamin C, both which can boost brain function. It is thought that eating healthy amounts of vitamin C from diet can protect the brain from cognitive decline.
Cauliflower is really versatile. Try to mash it as a great substitute for potatoes!
