Published: January 30, 2015
With all the resources on the internet, you are probably aware that certain foods that have benefits for your brain. Oily fish and walnuts, for example, contain high levels of Omega-3 fatty acids, which can reduce the risk of memory loss.
But scientists recently found there are even more foods that surprisingly boosting brain health for older adults.
A recent Harvard study, for example, shows drinking two cups of hot chocolate per day can help keep your brain healthy and prevent memory decline. By drinking hot chocolate, you improve the blood flow and spark energy in the brain according to recent researchers.
However, you might be surprised to know hot cocoa isn’t the only item in your kitchen that is good food for thought.
5 Brain-Boosting Foods to Consider
1. Coffee: If you don’t really care for hot chocolate, maybe you should consider coffee. Researchers have linked daily coffee consumption to reduced risk of dementia. Also coffee has been proven to slow the effects of Alzheimer’s disease.
2. Popcorn: While artificial popcorn butter may have a negative effect on your brain, researchers at the University of Scranton found that natural popcorn actually has high levels of polyphenols. These antioxidants have been shown to benefit brain health. Air-popped corn is the best kind for your overall health.
3. Carrots: Eating carrots not only benefits your eyes, but did you know they’re also good for your brain? Carrots contain a significant amount of luteolin, a compound shown to reduce brain inflammation and memory deficits, according to a study in the Journal of Nutrition.
4. Champagne: Who would believe eating for your brain could be a luxurious experience. According to a University of Reading study, drinking three glasses of champagne a week can counteract memory loss associated with aging. Toast to your health!
5. Yamabushitake Mushroom: You probably aren’t already eating these Japanese mushrooms, but it might be worth searching them out. A double-blind study showed eating Yamabushitake mushrooms provides mild improvements for older adults diagnosed with cognitive impairments.
