Eating for Your Brain: Food for Memory

“The human brain has 100 billion neurons, each neuron connected to 10 thousand other neurons. Sitting on your shoulders is the most complicated object in the known universe.” —Michio Kaku

Our brains are a wonderfully important part of our bodies. They let us think, feel and have memories, and they are control centers, managing and coordinating our actions and reactions. Because of its importance, we want to make sure we’re doing everything possible to keep good brain health.

One way we can help keep our brains healthy is through the foods we choose. They give our bodies all the vitamins and nutrients we need for our overall physical function. Below is a list of some of the best brain food choices to improve and maintain our cognitive health.

6 Best Brain Food Choices for Cognitive Function

1. Fatty Fish. Oily or fatty fish are typically one of the first things to be mentioned when discussing food for memory and brain health. Fish such as tuna and salmon are loaded with omega-3 fatty acids which are important for building membranes around the cells in your body — including brain cells.
2. Berries. Brain health is just one of the many benefits berries offer. They’re a superfood with plenty of antioxidants which contribute to communication between brain cells, decreased inflammation and reduced cognitive decline.
3. Walnuts. Did you know that walnuts help to reduce brain inflammation? There’s also a link between eating walnuts and better brain function, thanks to nutrients such as polyunsaturated fat and vitamin E. This means better mental flexibility, better memory and faster processing speed.
4. Leafy greens. Food such as spinach and kale are considered superfoods, which means they’re filled with nutrients. Vitamins and nutrients found in leafy greens include folate, iron, calcium and vitamins E and K help to keep your brain healthy and reduce the onset of dementia.
5. Eggs. Many of us make eggs part of a well-rounded breakfast. If you include eggs in your meal, you’re getting a healthy dose of brain-powering nutrients such as choline.
6. Coffee. Surprised to see your daily cuppa on this list? Coffee may help you stay awake and focused, but caffeine isn’t the only element keeping your brain alert. It’s also a good source of antioxidants which can help reduce the risk of cognitive decline.

Keep a Healthy Mind with Monroe Village

Eating well is just one of the ways you can encourage a healthy brain. You can also influence brain health through a variety of factors including activities and amenities like those we offer at Monroe Village. Relax your mind in the spa, engage in some social time at The Club Room or Bistro or join in a stimulating activity like Word Play or trivia. Whatever your activity of preference, Monroe Village can help you find it or create something just for you.

Contact us to schedule a personal tour and see how you can keep an active, healthy mind with Monroe Village.