We all know that brain health is important, it is essential for living a long and full life and is the control center of everything in our bodies. Our brain is what allows our hearts to beat, lungs to breathe, as well as helps us to pay attention, solve problems, connect with others, and so much more. According to the American Heart Association, “Failing brain health is a public health epidemic… 3 out of 5 Americans will develop a brain disease in their lifetime”.
No matter your age, brain health is always something you should strive to support and optimize. Although there is no magic pill for promising longevity of a highly-functioning brain, maintaining a brain-boosting diet is one of the best strategies for supporting both short- and long-term function that we are fully in control of. The brain uses about 20 percent of the body’s calories, making it a very energy-intensive organ that requires good fuel to function at its best.
According to Harvard Health, research shows that the best brain supporting foods are those that also protect your heart, blood vessels, and circulation, giving you all the more reason to incorporate them into your diet. To offer some guidance, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best foods to support a healthy brain. Good news - they’re nothing fancy after all and primarily come from the earth.
Green, leafy vegetables: leafy greens including kale, broccoli, spinach, and collards are packed with brain-healthy nutrients such as vitamin K, beta carotene, folate and lutein.
Blueberries: the antioxidant compounds in blueberries are shown to provide numerous health benefits, one being reducing the effects of age-related conditions like Alzheimer's disease or dementia. In addition, these antioxidants reduce stress and inflammation in the brain, improve brain cell communication and boost learning and memory. We like to throw some into our smoothies - fresh or frozen!
Healthy fats: the common recommendation here is fish such as salmon and trout as they are an excellent source of essential fatty acids, ones the body is not able to make on their own. However, with our focus on minimizing our environmental impact through plant-based diets, we encourage people to consider delicious and excellent plant-based alternatives that offer the brain-boosting healthy fats. Nuts and seeds such as walnuts, chia seeds, almonds, and flax are all great sources of omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. We love enjoying them alone as a snack or topping on our yogurt or smoothie!
Dark chocolate: a dessert you can feel good about eating knowing it is boosting your brain health. Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, strong antioxidants that are shown to improve blood flow to the brain and reduce inflammation. Plus, it is a natural mood booster, enhancing focus and alertness.
Turmeric: known for boosting mood and memory, it’s no secret that we love turmeric at So Good So You. It’s packed with antioxidants, working as an anti-inflammatory that improves cognitive function. If you’re looking to skip the orange mess of juicing turmeric on your own, give our Turmeric Shot a try!
Another easy way to mix in brain boosting foods is by taking our probiotic shots! Our gut has a direct connection to our brain, and consuming plant-based foods and probiotics will support your overall health. To find SGSY shots in a store near you, visit our store locator here.