11 Brain Boosting Superfoods

Whether you are 25 or 75, it’s always a good time to think about ways to keep your mind healthy, focused and working at its full potential.

The foods we choose to incorporate into our diets have physical effects on our bodies. We know that healthy eating can aid in everything from weight loss to lower cholesterol levels, and can help to build muscles and increase strength. The foods we use to fuel our bodies also fuel our minds. Choosing the right ones can actually help to boost brain power and function.

Add these brain boosting superfoods to your diet and enjoy the difference.

1. Goji Berries

Full of nutrients and vitamins that aid in the reduction of brain inflammation as well as reducing the amount of toxic build-up in the brain, Goji berries also help to naturally boost the brain’s productivity and the retention of information. Make sure you buy organic goji berries in order to get the most nutritional value.

2. Raw Cacao

Chocolate lovers rejoice and revel in the brain boosting powers of cacao. Extremely high in vitamin C, cacao aids in the fight against memory loss. Keep in mind that a highly processed candy bar will have almost none of the inherent nutrients of raw cacao. Better opt in for a raw chocolate bar, and even pair it with a handful of Goji berries for a brain boosting sweet treat.

3. Coconut (in all forms)

The right kind of fat is essential for proper brain function, consider it brain fuel. Coconut is one of the best sources of medium chain triglycerides (MCT), which are easily converted by the liver into brain food. MCT oil is a must for athletes as it helps with endurance, decreases body fat and increases lean muscle mass. Sub your regular cooking oil for organic extra virgin coconut oil, eat raw chocolate with goji berries and coconut, or simply add MCT oil to your juices and smoothies.

4. Raw Milk

Cow’s milk not only contains memory-improving vitamins like B6, B12, calcium, potassium, and magnesium, but the proteins that make up milk have been shown to improve cerebral functioning by increasing serotonin. It’s hard to find raw milk these days, so another great option would be colostrum powder which tastes great in smoothies.

5. Spinach

Higher brain functions like memory and learning are directly impacted by magnesium and potassium. Spinach is loaded with both. Additionally, spinach is a great source of folate, which can help to thwart cognitive deterioration. Make sure to always eat organic spinach.

6. Chia Seeds

They may not be in your pantry right now, but Aztecs and Mayans includedchia seeds in their diets for good reason. They mulled the seeds into flour and used the oils of the seeds. They provide the brain with stamina and energy. These seeds are loaded with the brain boosting powers of omega-3 fatty acids, calcium, protein, fiber, potassium, and iron.

7. Acorn Squash

In addition to helping to prevent blood sugar spikes and reduce cancer risk, the folic acid and B12 in acorn squash deter brain shrinkage and nerve damage. When consumed by expectant mothers, acorn squash can help to prevent cognitive and spinal cord birth defects.

8. Broccoli

Broccoli is one of the few foods to contain sulforaphane, which has a very specific and very important task. Our brains are encased in a lining that prevents anything foreign from entering its realm. Sulforaphane strengthens this lining, helping our brains to maintain a healthy, safe environment.

9. Acai

Acai is the definition of a superfood. It’s loaded with antioxidants, vitamins, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids. In addition to the physical benefits of eating these berries, these nutritional powerhouses have been known to increase overall brain health and improve cognitive function.

10. Kale

One of the most nutrient-dense foods on the planet, kale is rich in vitamins A, K, and C as well as a variety of antioxidants. All of these nutrients spell brain health and superior cognitive functioning.

11. Beans

Beans are a near perfect food. Typically low in calories and high in protein, beans help to even out blood sugar levels. This is very important as the brain depends on glucose for nourishment. Too much or too little is bad for the brain. Beans have also been shown to help with awareness and mental acuity.

Which ones do you consume on the regular basis? Which one is your favorite?