Improve your memory with super foods

Boost your memory by including super foods in your daily diet, along with brain exercises.

Lifestyle changes for better health include exercise and a balanced diet. Consider this thought: We exercise our bodies in gymnasiums, or at home to help us stay sharp; however, we don’t always consider that our brain cells diminish over time. Brain cells naturally degenerate as we age, yet we generally don’t give our brain the attention and workout it needs until a medical diagnosis or noticeable forgetfulness occurs. We can help our brains through diet as well as exercise.

Just as nutrients are necessary to keep our bodies tuned up, the same is true for our brain. After all, the body and mind is a whole unit. Brain cells need to be stimulated to become, and remain sharp through the life span. Nutrients are necessary to prevent cell damage to the brain and can help improve memory, in addition to exercising and implementing a variety of brain games.

Michigan State University Extension recommends including these nutrients in your diet daily to boost your memory:

  • Egg yolks – The yolk of an egg contains chlorine; rich in vitamin B (in order to keep cholesterol levels down, eat egg yolks in moderation).
  • Glucose – Fiber helps glucose absorb into the body. You need glucose to supply your body (and brain) with energy.
  • Folic acid – Contained in kale, greens, spinach and arugula.
  • Whole grains – Bran, quinoa, oatmeal and brown rice.
  • Berries – Blueberries, blackberries, raisins and cranberries.
  • Beets – Cooked, fresh or juiced.
  • Rosemary – Have a test coming up? Sharpens your senses, excellent for concentration.
  • Essential Fatty Acids (EFAs) – Fish rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, recommended to be ate three times a week.
  • Colorful vegetables – Broccoli, eggplant, peas, asparagus, bell peppers (of any color).
  • Vitamins E, C and B12 – From nuts and seeds.

While you’re doing brain games like crosswords, Sudoku, guided imagery or meditation, add the foods above and notice a marked change in memory. Be consistent with brain exercises along with eating a balanced diet of brain foods – often called super foods.

Don’t get dehydrated! Regardless of climate, season or geographic location, your brain needs water. Drink six to eight, eight ounce glasses of water daily. Get your body and mind in motion. Start your day with a glass of water, drink it throughout your day; and end your day with water – hydrate!

Start today with conscious efforts toward revving up your memory. You’ll notice differences as you put into practice intervention and preventative measures.

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