Build up your brain power with these delicious foods and feel the health benefits.
We already know that physically ‘we are what we eat’ but did you know your diet can also negatively affect your memory?
The good news is that there are lots of simple yet delicious ways you can feed your brain to boost your brainpower and memory, greatly lowering your risk of developing dementia.
Here are five memory boosting foods you can work into your diet.
Avocado
A total powerhouse when it comes to boosting those brain cells, avocados are a fantastic source of good fats and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids which all increase blood flow to the brain. They also contain Vitamin K and potassium which both help to protect against stroke.
Eat it… as avocado fries. Slice into wedges, roll in flour seasoned with paprika, dip in an egg wash, roll in panko breadcrumbs, bake at 200 degrees for 20 minutes and voila… a tasty TV snack!
Dark Chocolate
Yes, it’s official… eating chocolate really is good for your health! However, it’s got to be dark chocolate to get all the benefits which include improving blood vessel function which in turn improves cognitive function and boost memory. It’s also packed full of antioxidants — hurrah!
Eat it… in chilli. Grate 30 grams of 80-85% dark chocolate into your chilli beef to enhance the flavour.
Nuts
All nuts are great but walnuts and almonds contain extra high doses of vitamin E which protects the brain from free radicals and helps prevent many forms of dementia.
Eat it… pulverise a handful of almonds in a food processor and add them to a banana smoothie for a quick and healthy brain boosting breakfast!
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain a big dose of lycopene — a powerful antioxidant which is thought to protect against damage to brain cells which occur in the development of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s.
Eat it… cooked with olive oil alongside lean bacon and scrambled eggs.
Berries
Blueberries and blackcurrants contain high levels of vitamin C which boosts mental agility and protects against age-related brain-degeneration.
Eat it… in muffins. A couple of handfuls of berries and some oats are great additions to breakfast muffins – perfect to freeze for later to have on those mornings when you’re a bit behind.
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