12 Brain Foods To Eat (And Cook!) For Improved Memory

The brain is a hungry organ and it needs the right food to stay at peak performance. Make sure you’re eating the right foods to help your brain perform at its best. Here are some of the best brain foods that you should eat every day.

• Tuna. For people who don’t like fish, try tuna for a boost of omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3s help prevent cognitive decline associated with aging and can also help keep your heart healthy and protect against diabetes and cancer. Tuna is also rich in selenium, which is an antioxidant that helps keep your memory sharp as you age.
• Yogurt. Yogurt contains probiotics, or “good” bacteria, which supports a healthy digestive system. Your digestive system plays an important role in keeping your brain sharp, because it releases neurotransmitters that are involved in mental function.
• Spinach. Spinach is rich in vitamin E and beta carotene, both of which have been shown to play a role in preventing the cognitive decline associated with aging. Spinach is also a good source of lutein, which is an antioxidant that’s important for eye health, especially vision clarity and protecting against cataracts and macular degeneration.
• Tofu. Tofu is an excellent source of the amino acid tryptophan, which is converted into serotonin, the “feel good” neurotransmitter. Serotonin not only elevates mood and enhances feelings of well-being, but it also helps with memory and learning.
• Berries. Blueberries and strawberries are rich in antioxidants that protect brain cells from damage and strengthen connections between neurons in the memory center of the brain.
• Dark chocolate. It’s not just a treat; thanks to its abundance of antioxidants, dark chocolate improves blood flow to the brain and stimulates BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which is essential for long-term memory formation.