Photo by Anna Pelzer on Unsplash
What you eat has quite obvious effects on your overall health and physical well-being, and the same goes for your brain. By consuming specific nutrients, you can enhance your mental clarity, reduce stress, and even improve your memory. Below are five examples of food types which are thought to improve cognitive function along with different ways to incorporate them into your diet.
We have also included ways in which to incorporate these foods into your lifestyle in the most eco-friendly way. Often people who switch to a greener lifestyle improve their mental health, as they are taught, through the change, to be more mindful.
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Blueberries
Blueberries are high in antioxidants and have been shown to improve memory and cognitive function. Whether you’re looking to make a refreshing smoothie by blending them or eating them as they are, they are an excellent source of Vitamin C and can help reduce inflammation in the brain.
When choosing blueberries try to source them from local farms or opt for frozen organic berries that are grown without harmful pesticides.
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Salmon
Salmon is a protein rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain health. Omega-3 helps to boost cognitive function, memory and mood. Wild-caught salmon is often the better alternative, as farmed salmon can contain harmful chemicals and contribute to overfishing.
If you’re looking for a quick and healthy dinner, salmon will taste great when grilled or baked with a squeeze of lemon, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil.
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Avocados
Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fats and vitamin E. These are two nutrients which are thought to improve blood flow to the brain and improve cognitive function. Avocados are a very versatile ingredient. Simply mashing an avocado with lime juice, salt, and chili flakes will give you a quick and easy guacamole dip.
Doing your best to choose avocados that are grown locally and organically will help reduce their carbon footprint.
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Nuts and seeds
Nuts and seeds are a source of essential fatty acids, protein, and Vitamin E, all of which are essential for brain health. The things you can do with them are endless, from making a nutritious snack mix by tossing together a variety of nuts, seeds, dried fruit, and dark chocolate or sprinkling them on a dessert for a little added flavor.
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Leafy greens
Leafy greens like spinach and kale are high in Vitamin K and antioxidants, both of which are beneficial to brain health. These are great additions to any diet, being low in calories and high in nutrients. From salads to soups and stir frys, make sure to add these into your meals for a little brain boost. Just make sure you have your cutting board and casting iron pans care cleaning products to hand when preparing these, they sometimes can get a little messy!
Final Words
By incorporating these 5 mind-boosting foods into your diet, you can give your brain the nourishment it needs to function at its best. Whether you choose to buy fresh, organic, and locally grown produce, or not, you can be sure that you are either making a positive impact on your brain, the environment or both.