1. Coconut Oil
The primary fuel your brain needs for energy is glucose. However, your brain is able to run on more than a single type of fuel, one being ketones (ketone bodies), or ketoacids. Ketones are what your body produces when it converts fat (as opposed to glucose) into energy.
2. Binge on blueberries
Evidence accumulated at Tufts University in the United States suggests that the consumption of blueberries may be effective in improving or delaying short term memory loss. Widely available, so there’s no excuse.
3. Eat more tomatoes
There is good evidence to suggest that lycopene, a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, could help protect against the kind of free radical damage to cells which occurs in the development of dementia, particularly Alzheimer’s.
4. Whole Grains
Whole grains are rich in complex carbohydrates, fiber, and some omega 3 fatty acids that shield the heart and brain from damaging sugar spikes, cholesterol, blood clots, and more. Grains also contain B vitamins that have an effect on blood flow to the brain and mood. Whole grains should be soaked, fermented, sprouted, or grown as microgreens to unlock all their nutritional power and minimize any anti-nutrients.
5. Blueberries
These berries are antioxidant powerhouses, protecting the brain from oxidative damage and stress that lead to premature aging, Alzheimer’s, and dementia. The flavonoids in blueberries also improve the communication between neurons, improving memory, learning, and all cognitive function, including reasoning, decision making, verbal comprehension, and numerical anility. Other dark berries are good for the brain too, like blackberry, açai, and goji berries.
6. Sunflower Seeds/Pumpkin Seeds
Both sunflower and pumpkin seeds contain a rich mix of protein, omega fatty acids and B vitamins, which aid in giving you added energy. They also contain tryptophan, which the brain converts into serotonin to boost your mood and combat anxiety and depression. Lastly, a handful of seeds will give you your daily recommended amount of zinc, a supplement aiding in enhancing memory and thinking skills.
7. Spinach
Nitrates can also be found in spinach, increasing blood flow to the brain and improving mental performance. In addition to preventing or delaying dementia, the nutrients in spinach can also aid in preventing cancer cell and tumor growth.
8. Broccoli
Broccoli is a superfood for the whole body. It is rich in calcium, vitamin C, B vitamins, beta-carotene, iron, fiber, and vitamin K. These nutrients protect against free radicals, keep blood flowing well, and remove heavy metals that can damage the brain.
Sources:
http://articles.mercola.com/sites/articles/archive/2015/01/12/top-7-brain-foods.aspx
http://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/10-foods-boost-your-brainpower
http://www.sunwarrior.com/news/brain-foods/
http://www.forbes.com/sites/jennifercohen/2015/02/05/12-best-foods-to-boost-brain-power/2/#2715e4857a0b1674bed17eaa
