Show your brain some love
What you choose to eat can do more than make or break your chances of achieving your fitness goals. It can also affect how alert and focused you feel during the day. Plus, consuming the right foods now can boost your brainpower later. That means razor-sharp focus and healthy aging, which can help you avoid cognitive diseases like Alzheimer's and dementia.
Show your brain some love and munch on these healthy foods:
Give in to the superfoods
These overachievers are packed with nutrients and antioxidants that have powerful benefits for your health and well-being. Yes, we're talking about kale. Peas, watermelon seeds, hemp, elderflower mushrooms and avocado oil should also be on your shopping list. Munch on nuts or berries for a mind-boosting midday snack. Eating fish, especially salmon and trout, at least once a week gives your brain a good source of omega-3 fatty acids that can help protect it from cognitive decline. In other words, you should definitely make a reservation at your favorite seafood restaurant this weekend.
Always go for color
Vegetables and fruits get their color from high levels of antioxidants, which work to protect brain cells from harmful molecules. Up your intake of vegetables like tomatoes, red onions, peppers, broccoli and green beans, plus fruits like watermelon, berries and pineapple. Don't be afraid of the unusual ones, either: Purple cauliflower, carrots and potatoes are also mega-healthy for you. For an easy and vibrant go-to side dish, roast a mixture of these veggies with oil, salt, pepper and seasonings of your choice.
Indulge with control
Have a relentless sweet tooth? Good news: cacao powder helps preserve your brain's stem cells, and can improve your memory and mood. Don't go crazy, though. Health.com recommended just a square or two of dark chocolate a day for your sweet fix. Plus, your brain loves glucose, which comes from none other than your favorite carbs. Stick to the whole grain ones, though! The caffeine in your beloved cup of coffee or tea is also beneficial for preventing memory issues.
Add these foods to your diet and you'll feel sharp, focused and ready to take on whatever the day brings your way.
