Foods that Can Help Strengthen Memory

It’s a given that making healthy food choices is crucial for maintaining one’s physical and mental health. But do you know which specific foods you need to eat to keep your grey matter healthy and sharp?

Whether you’re looking to bust up the occasional brain fog, or you just want to be proactive about your cognitive function, the following foods are must-haves in your kitchen.

Fruits

Achieve better brainpower by incorporating these fruits into your diet:

• Berries – They contain anthocyanin and other flavonoids, which sharpen memory.
• Grapes – They are rich in the memory-boosting compound called resveratrol as well as antioxidants like polyphenols, which have also been shown to boost focus and memory.
• Watermelon – Water found in watermelon has beneficial effects on brain health. It also has powerful antioxidants like lycopene, which has neuroprotective capabilities.
• Avocado – This fruit is loaded with monounsaturated fats, which several studies have linked to better overall cognitive function.

Whole Grains and Legumes

The brain relies on glucose for fuel. A steady supply of glucose to the brain is therefore essential for its optimal functioning. Adding complex carbohydrates, such as cracked wheat, chickpeas, lentils, and couscous, to your diet can provide a sustained supply of glucose to your brain. Complex carbohydrates are also rich in folate, which is a memory-boosting compound.

Vegetables

There’s ample scientific evidence that eating leafy, green vegetables (e.g., spinach, kale, and broccoli) regularly can help reduce a person’s risk for age-related memory loss. In addition, root vegetables like beets contain a compound that dilates blood vessels and allows oxygenated blood to move towards the brain, thereby improving memory.

Seafood

Seafood is good not only for your heart but also for your brain. Studies have shown that eating fatty fish, such as trout, salmon, herring, sardines, mackerel, pilchards, and kippers one to two times per week can significantly improve memory.

Similarly, crustaceans (e.g., mussels, clams, and shrimps) are excellent sources of vitamin B12, a nutrient that helps keep your mind sharp. However, since crustaceans are high in cholesterol, they should be eaten moderately.

Seeds and Herbs

Some herbs and seeds that have been found to strengthen memory include the following

• Cocoa beans – These are rich in flavonoids, which have the ability to suppress neuroinflammation and boost overall cognitive function.
• Saffron – Studies have found saffron to have a positive effect on patients with Alzheimer’s disease.
• Sesame seeds – The amino acid tyrosine in sesame seeds boosts the body’s production of dopamine, a neurotransmitter that keeps the brain sharp and alert.
• Rosemary and mint – Rosemary works by increasing blood flow to the brain, while mint’s aroma enhances memory.

Treatment for Dementia in Southeast Michigan

As renowned experts in the field, our board-certified neurologists here at Associates in Neurology are committed to not only providing top-notch medical care but also to upholding the value of patient education – which empowers patients to make the wisest decisions about their cognitive health and care.

Schedule an appointment with one of our compassionate and highly qualified neurologists today. Call us at (248) 478-5512. Alternatively, you may use our convenient online request form.