Brain Foods

At this time of year many of us are busy crossing a host of foods off our list wondering what the heck is left for us to eat after we’ve given up so much.  Below is a list of foods that are packed with nutrients that help brain functioning and as such deserve a special place on our plates.  Thinking about getting enough nutrients throughout the day rather than merely how to avoid overindulging or binging on junk food, can be a great way to think about your health and diet in a new light.  Rather a process of sheer denial, this can be a way to think about eating as a pleasurable way to provide your body and brain with the vitamins and minerals it needs. 

1.Broccoli.  I know, I know, who wants to hear one more time about the sensational health benefits of this green, but this common little staple is a powerhouse of nutritional benefit.  Broccoli can help prevent cancer and heart disease, and this underrated vegetable will also provide you with a good dose of calcium.  Broccoli is a member of the cabbage family and like its fellow brethren, when combined with protein, this green will help get amino acids to the brain.  Broccoli is also high in vitamin A, C, and Chlorophyll, and of course is low in calories.  

2.Almonds.  Of all of the nuts around, Almonds are a terrific way to get the natural and essential oils you need without a large degree of worry about allergies.  Almonds are a great little snack food, providing you with a good dose of protein.  Almonds are great for the musculature system, brain health and the nervous system.  Almonds, alongside other nuts, though high in fat can actually help reduce cholesterol levels in the body.  If you are trying to lose weight of course it’s best to limit consumption somewhat, but a handful or two of almonds as a snack is a terrific way to stave off hunger and feed your brain.

3.Salmon.  Salmon is one of the best foods for getting essential fatty acids (EFAs).  Salmon is high in Omega 3 as well as providing a great dose of Vitamin D.  EFAs are essential to brain function.  Always try to steer clear of farmed salmon as these have been shown to have a lower than average Omega 3 content and to have 8 times higher levels of PCB (polychlorinated biphenyl).  A good rule of thumb to follow is, if possible, to buy Pacific salmon of which it is estimated that 80% are wild, while on the other hand, 85 percent of Atlantic salmon are farmed.

4.Acai Berries.  The Acai berry is a super food recently become popular in North America.  It is of South American origin.  Not only does this little wonder food possesses high levels of antioxidants and vitamins, but it also contains EFAs.  The Acai berry also provides the body with protein.  This combination of EFAs and protein in a simple berry is enough to get that brain churning.  Because many of these benefits are derived from fresh Acai berries, be sure to look for a flash-frozen variety in your local health food store.

5.Eggs.  As your mother may have told you, eggs are the essential brain food.  Eggs provide a great start to the day when it comes to packing a punch of protein.  Eggs supply essential amino acids alongside a host of other vitamins and minerals.  Eggs contain Vitamin A, folic acid, Vitamin B6, B12 and choline.  Choline is especially important for proper brain functioning and has been found to be essential for pregnant and nursing mothers as it helps with fetal brain development.  While eggs do contain cholesterol, one study at least has found that not all of the cholesterol in eggs is actually absorbed by the body.  Opting for a hardboiled egg a few times a week most likely has more benefits than ill effects.