Sunday 29 September 2013

Memory Enhancing Foods


Studies have shown that certain foods can boost our memory.  This is really an interesting subject that a lot of researchers have given thought to.  In fact, there is a considerable amount of data to support some relationships between our diet and memory.  Adopting a brain-healthy diet is the simplest way to not only prevent memory loss but to also ensure a healthy mind for years to come.  Some foods have been listed below, which are easily available in the market, that can help enhance your memory.

Spinach:  Spinach is rich in antioxidants. It also contains folic acid which has been shown to improve memory in many studies.  It is also an essential ingredient used in supplements to treat Alzheimer’s disease.  About half a cup of spinach daily is sufficient to meet your daily requirement.

Fish:  Fish is rich in omega 3 fatty acids, which help in development of the brain.  Fish also has iodine which boosts memory power.  Studies confirm that frequent fish eaters experience slower rates of cognitive decline as they age.  Salmon, tuna, trout, mackerel and sardines are fatty fishes which have more omega 3 fatty acids.  Omega 3 fatty acids are also good for cardiovascular health.  Eating fish one to two times a week is sufficient to improve your memory.

Blueberries:  Blueberries are loaded with anthocyanin which is a powerful ingredient for boosting memory.  It helps to reduce the breakdown of brain cells and maintain healthy brain function to help improve memory.

Beets:  Beets lower blood pressure and increase blood flow to the brain.  It helps to keep your brain active, regulate sleep, and is vital in the thinking process.

Onions:  Onions have been used in India as a remedy to boost memory for centuries.  Onions are full of quercetin and anthocyanin. They are good memory enhancers.

Nuts and Seeds:  All kinds of nuts have been shown to be great memory boosters.  Nuts and seeds are loaded with Vitamin E, particularly almonds and hazelnuts.

Broccoli:  Broccoli is high in vitamin C and dietary fiber and is an especially good source of folic acid.

Along with the foods listed above, you could also opt for other choices like sweet potato, asparagus, kale and cantaloupe, all of which have beneficial properties. These can also help in improving memory.  Breakfast is the most important meal of the day and it can improve your memory. According to studies, having a breakfast with a high-protein food (eggs, meat, dairy, beans) and a high-fiber starch (whole wheat bread or high fiber cereal) can improve memory and enhance attention, and increasing your dietary intake may slow age-related memory loss.  Our bodies are 60% water and our brain is about 75% water, so it obvious that water can impact our health.  While there is no research to show that drinking water improves our memory, it has been shown that even a small amount of dehydration leads to confusion and problems with memory.  So, it is advisable to drink plenty of water.  Eat a well-balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables, high in fiber, low in refined flour and sugar, and add omega-3 fats in place of saturated and trans fat.

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