Everything that makes us human is thanks to our brains – it allows us to move, feel, think, access memories, interact with others, and understand the world. Without it and we would be a shell of ourselves, perhaps even nonexistent. As the most important organ of the body, we owe it to ourselves to take care of this three-pound jumble of soft tissue, and here’s the fun part: there’s a load of delicious food out there to help your brain stay sharp and healthy! 

 

1. Beans

Dubbed as a “poor man’s meal” when paired with rice, don’t make the mistake of underestimating beans! Though it’s a simple type of food, it’s rich in fiber and can give your brain a much needed boost, which in turn helps you with cognition – the mental process of acquiring and understanding knowledge through experience, thoughts, and the senses. 

 

2. Poultry

If you’re going to go for meat, choose the healthier option! Since it has less saturated fat and is much leaner – so less cholesterol – than its red meat counterparts, poultry is a great choice for both your heart and your brain! In fact, one study has shown that poultry, chicken in particular, can positively impact cognition and helps with working memory and attention. 

 

3. Fish

Choose the ones rich in omega-3 fatty acids! Studies show that it can help lower the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. That and our brains use omega-3s to build brain and nerve cells, which means they’re vital to learning and memory. Aside from salmon, other omega-3 rich sources are tuna, mackerel, and sardines.

 

4. Green, leafy vegetables

Want better brain power? Then start eating more green and leafy veggies! They’re rich in nutrients that are healthy to the brain: vitamin K, folate, beta carotene, and lutein – all of which can help slow, age-related cognitive decline. Whether it’s kale, spinach, collards, or broccoli, you’re sure to stay sharper than most people who belong to your age group who don’t eat their leafy greens. 

 

5. Nuts

Rich in not just omega-3 fatty acids but also antioxidants, eating nuts has been linked to better brain function, especially in old age. We already know the magic of omega-3 – this time, taking center stage when it comes to brain health, is vitamin E. Our brains are more prone to being exposed to oxidative stress as we grow older, which is exactly what vitamin E protects our cells against. A study has also linked vitamin E to a reduced risk of Alzheimer’s disease and improved cognition.  

 

To really enjoy ourselves as we age, being mindful of our brain-health is important. The brain impacts a host of other bodily functions that help us live day to day, and the least we can do is reward it with boosts to keep it – and ourselves – fit and strong!