World Brain Day 2020: 10 Foods To Boost Your Memory

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Every year 22 July marks World Brain Day. The brain is the most important organ of the body. It is responsible for the beating of your heart, releasing hormones, and regulating blood pressure. The brain is also one of the organs that use around 20% of the body's calories. This is the reason why your body requires enough fuel to maintain concentration throughout the day.

The brain needs certain nutrients like omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants and other vitamins and minerals to provide energy and protect against brain diseases such as brain ageing and neurodegenerative disorders.

That's why to keep your brain running in proper working condition, consume foods that will not only improve your memory but also your concentration.

Foods To Boost Memory

1. Berries

Berries are packed with antioxidants which include catechin, quercetin, anthocyanin, and caffeic acid. A study shows that antioxidant compounds in berries have many positive effects on the brain including improving communication between brain cells, delaying age-related neurodegenerative diseases, boosting learning and memory ^[1] .

2. Avocados

Avocados are a good source of healthy monounsaturated fats which support brain function and lower the risk of cognitive decline. In addition, the presence of vitamin K and folate in avocados help improve cognitive function ^[2] . Other sources of monounsaturated fats are almonds, chia seeds, walnuts, etc.

3. Oily fish

Oily fishes such as mackerel, salmon, tuna, sardines, and herring are an excellent source of omega 3 fatty acids. Omega 3 fatty acids help improve the structure of brain cells called neurons. According to a study, people with high levels of omega 3 fats had increased blood flow in the brain ^[3] .

4. Nuts and seeds

Nuts and seeds are rich in vitamin E and omega 3 fatty acids which protect the brain cells from oxidative stress caused by free radicals. A study found that an increased intake of nuts and seeds has been linked to better brain function in older age ^[4] .

5. Broccoli

Broccoli is a good source of antioxidants and vitamin K. Vitamin K is a water-soluble vitamin which has been linked to improving memory in older adults, according to a 2016 study ^[5] .

6. Eggs

Eggs are another memory-boosting food which contains a good amount of B vitamins like vitamin B6, vitamin B12, and folic acid. A research study shows that these vitamins delay cognitive decline and prevent shrinking of the brain ^[6] .

7. Dark chocolate

Cocoa powder which is used for making dark chocolate contains flavonoids, antioxidants, and caffeine. The flavonoids in chocolate accumulate in the area of the brain which deals with memory and learning. Researchers say that these compounds increase memory power and slow down age-related mental decline ^[7] .

8. Coffee

Coffee contains caffeine and antioxidants which have positive effects on your brain. Caffeine increases brain alertness by blocking adenosine, a chemical that makes you sleepy. It also boosts serotonin, a feel-good neurotransmitter ^[8] , ^[9] .

9. Green tea

Green tea is another memory-boosting beverage that has been found to improve performance, alertness, memory and focus ^[10] . Green tea contains an amino acid called L-theanine that increases the activity of the neurotransmitter GABA, which aids in reducing anxiety and makes you feel relaxed ^[11] .

10. Oranges

Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, a preventive factor in mental decline. Vitamin C is a powerful antioxidant in fighting off free radicals that damage the brain cells. According to a study, consuming sufficient amounts of vitamin C rich foods can protect against age-related mental decline ^[12] .

To Conclude...

Apart from eating healthy memory-boosting foods, it is also essential to get enough sleep, keep your body hydrated, exercise daily, reduce stress, and alcohol intake.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.