Who doesn’t want to stay young forever? For centuries, people have been trying to fight off aging and its side effects. The charms of being young are not limited to looking fresh and wrinkle-free. What makes youth the most attractive is the soundness of the mind and the ability to use it efficiently. As you age, your mental abilities may start declining. You’re unable to learn new things and often find it difficult to reason and analyze complicated situations. What if someone told you, you could keep your mind young and healthy with some special diet? Would you give it a go? The good news is, these foods exist and work wonders for your brain health! The top 7 foods that keep your mind young are:
- Berries
Berries don’t only taste good but are also super healthy for your mind and body. Do you know what makes berries unique? Flavonoids! Flavonoids are the natural plant pigment found in berries that give them their color. Research suggests that these flavonoids help improve memory. A study in 2012 found that women who used berries in their diet delayed memory decline by almost 2.5 years. Isn’t it fascinating?
- Walnuts
Nuts are nutritious and calorie-dense foods that help you keep your mind young and brain functioning. The protein and healthy fats in nuts improve memory and cognitive skills. In a study conducted in 2015, researchers found that higher walnut consumption resulted in improved cognitive scores. Walnuts are also rich in omega fatty acids that help lower blood pressure, saving your brain’s arteries from damage. It looks like the squirrels are in luck!
- Carrots
Have you ever wondered why your lunchbox almost always had carrots as a child? It was because carrots work wonders for brain health. Since your brain matures with age, having them early on allows your mind to stay sharp and agile. Carrots are loaded with antioxidants, and vitamin A. Studies suggest that the beta-carotene antioxidant in carrots can help prevent mental illness and slow down cognitive decline.
- Green leafy vegetables
Fitness enthusiasts and health experts promise the benefits of green leafy vegetables. Veggies add great nutritional value to your diet and slow down the aging process of your brain. Vegetables like kale, broccoli, spinach, and other greens are rich in vitamin K, folate, lutein, and beta carotene. All these nutrients slow down the effects of aging on your brain and keep your mind healthy.
- Fatty fish
Are you a fan of seafood? If not, you should become one! Seafood like salmon, cod, tuna, and Pollack are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids. The healthy unsaturated fats in these fish lower the protein levels named beta-amyloid in your blood. This protein forms damaging clumps in the brain and is commonly seen in people with Alzheimer’s disease. You should add seafood to your meals at least twice a week. If you’re not a fan of fish and seafood, you can use flaxseeds, avocados, or supplements.
- Olive oil
Olive has been used for centuries for enhancing hair and skin health. But did you know that it is incredibly healthy for your brain as well? Extra virgin olive oil is even better. It is loaded with antioxidants and possesses anti-inflammatory properties. Not only does olive oil slow down the brain aging process, but it also boosts your mind’s optimum functioning. Studies have also linked olive oil consumption with better memory. Just use it as a dressing for your salads, or prepare your food in it, and you’re good to go.
- Chocolate
Who doesn’t love chocolate? Whenever chocolate comes to your mind, you must think about roasted cocoa’s aroma or the bittersweet taste. However, not many people know the positive effects of chocolates on the brain. Chocolate is made from cocoa which is rich in flavonoids. Flavonoids are unique antioxidants and combat the brain’s oxidative stress. As a result, they prevent age-related mental health decline. Now you have the best excuse to indulge in this mouthwatering delicacy! However, if you have been going through difficulty with your cognitive abilities to analyze, remember, or focus, consult your doctor. Always pay attention to your mind; it matters!
Until Next Time,
Team Doctor ASKY!