You already know that what you eat impacts your body, but what you eat also influences your mood, mental energy, memory, and even your capacity to deal with stress, complex challenges, or basic daily duties. Despite weighing only 2% of your body weight, your brain eats 20% of the calories you ingest! And the more nutrients you consume, the sharper your mind becomes. So, if you want to be naturally smart, consume a lot of the following foods.
1 Legumes
Legumes (Pinterest)
Complex carbs are abundant in legumes! These complex carbs are also blended with fiber, which slows absorption, resulting in a consistent supply of glucose to the brain without the hazards of sugar spikes associated with many other sugar sources. Legumes are particularly high in folate, a B vitamin that is essential for brain development.
2 Mint
Mint (Pinterest)
Mint contains both vitamin A and vitamin C. Vitamin A has been shown to improve learning capabilities and increase brain plasticity, but vitamin C has been shown to protect against cognitive decline. According to research, even the smell of mint improves brain function by increasing attentiveness and memory. It also aids in the development of fundamental clerical skills such as typing and memorizing.
3 Broccoli
Broccoli (Pinterest)
Broccoli is not only a superfood for the entire body; it is also one of the finest foods for increasing brain function and memory! Calcium, vitamin C, B vitamins, beta-carotene, iron, fiber, and vitamin K are all abundant. These nutrients guard against free radicals, keep blood flowing properly, and eliminate heavy metals that can harm the brain. The potassium concentration in broccoli benefits the neurological system, which in turn benefits the brain. Broccoli may also help the brain mend itself in the event of an accident, according to research! That's a lot of strength for a vegetable, and it's not only restricted to broccoli; it also applies to the cruciferous vegetable family, which includes cauliflower and Brussels sprouts.
4 Beets
Beets (Pinterest)
Including more beets in your diet is one of the simplest methods to boost brain capacity organically. They're high in nitrates, which aid in increasing blood flow to areas of the brain associated with executive function. Beets are also high in vitamin B9, which helps improve cognitive function and postpone dementia. Furthermore, beets are high in carotenoids, improving brain function and preventing depression.
5 Seeds
Seeds (Pinterest)
Sunflower and pumpkin seeds, in particular, are beneficial to the brain! They are high in protein, omega fatty acids, and B vitamins. These seeds also have tryptophan, which the brain turns into serotonin to improve mood and fight sadness. A handful of seeds per day will also supply your daily necessary amount of zinc, which can assist improve memory and thinking skills! Seeds that have been soaked and sprouted are much better.
6 Nuts
Nuts (Pinterest)
Walnuts and almonds, in particular, are some of the best brain-boosting foods on the globe and are incredibly beneficial to the nervous system. Nuts are high in omega 3 and omega 6 fatty acids, vitamin B6, and vitamin E, which have been found to boost cognitive function and prevent many forms of dementia by protecting the brain from free radicals. It's worth noting that nuts contain anti-nutrients like phytic acid, so soaking them overnight before eating them is far better.
7 Quinoa
Quinoa (Pinterest)
Quinoa is a fantastic source of complex carbs and fiber, which help to balance blood sugar levels while also delivering the critical glucose that the brain requires. Quinoa is also high in iron, which helps keep the blood oxygenated, and B vitamins, which help balance mood and protect blood vessels. It is also gluten-free for people who are allergic to this protein. However, quinoa, like most seeds, grains, and nuts, should be soaked overnight before cooking.
8 Avocados
Avocados (Pinterest)
Avocados are an excellent source of monounsaturated fats, omega 3, and omega 6 fatty acids, all of which are essential for brain function. These improve blood flow to the brain, reduce cholesterol, and aid in antioxidant absorption. Avocados contain several antioxidants, including vitamin E, which protects the body and brain from free radical damage. They're also high in potassium and vitamin K, which help protect the brain against stroke.
9 Blueberries
Blueberries (Pinterest)
These berries are antioxidant powerhouses that protect the brain from oxidative damage and stress, which causes premature aging, Alzheimer's, and dementia. Blueberry flavonoids also increase neuron communication, which leads to improved memory, learning, and cognitive processes such as reasoning, decision making, verbal understanding, and numerical aptitude.
10 Coconut Oil
Coconut Oil (Pinterest)
Coconut oil includes medium chain triglycerides, which the body converts to energy while leaving glucose for the brain. It also appears to be good for blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels. And anything that is good for the heart and circulation is also good for the brain! Coconut oil is also anti-inflammatory and has been linked to Alzheimer's and dementia prevention.
