Eating well is not just a priority for optimal physical health, but for your mental health as well! Just like our heart, lungs, and even our muscles, the brain requires nutrients to keep it functioning properly while staying healthy and in top shape! And a healthy brain means improvement in specific mental tasks, such as memory and concentration.

Below is a list of TEN foods which will help keep your brain functioning properly and happy!

1. Avocados: Despite being knowns for their healthy fat content, this fruit is packed with vitamin K and folate, which help prevent blood clots in the brain. This not only helps protect you against strokes, but can also improve cognitive function, such as memory and concentration. Avocados are rich in vitamins B and C; vitamins which should be replenished daily as they are not stored in our bodies.
2.  Wholegrains: Wholegrains with low-GI allow the slow release of glucose into your bloodstreams. This boosts your energy levels which helps to keep you mentally alert throughout the day.
3.  (Oily) Fish: Fish or rather oily fish in this case, include: mackerel, herring, salmon, trout, kipper, pilchards, and sardines. They all contain the essential fatty acid, omega-3, which is a natural form of EPA and DHA. Having sufficient levels of EPA and DHA is said to help manage stress and to assist in making serotonin, also known as the good mood brain chemical.
4. Tomatoes: Lycopene is a powerful antioxidant found in tomatoes, which is said to be able to help fight against any radical damage to cells which occurs in the brain during the development of dementia and Alzheimer’s.
5. Blueberries: Blueberries are one of the highest antioxidant-rich foods, including both vitamins C and K, and very rich in fiber. Due to high levels of gallic acid, blueberries are known to protect our brains from degeneration and stress.
6. Bone Broth: Known for healing both your gut AND your brain, bone broth is full of many health benefits. From boosting your immune system to fighting leaky gut, even improving joint health! Packed full of amino acids like proline and glycine, these help to keep your immune system functioning properly which in turn contributes to improving your memory.
7. Coconut Oil: This oil works as a natural anti-inflammatory, which suppresses the cells responsible for inflammation. It can even help with memory loss as you age.
8. Broccoli: This veggie is packed with vitamin K, which is known to enhance your cognitive function as well as improve brainpower. Because it is also said to be high in compounds called glucosinolates, eating broccoli may help slow the breakdown of the neurotransmitter, acetylcholine, which is needed in order for the central nervous system to perform properly, keeping our minds and memory sharp! A 2005 study in the US National Library of Medicine link low levels of acetylcholine with Alzheimer’s.
9. Nuts: Nuts are a great source of vitamin E, which is said to help prevent cognitive decline in the elderly. The high levels of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals found in most nuts, particularly walnuts, can even contribute to improve mental alertness.
10. Leafy Green Vegetables: Leafy veggies, like kale and Swiss chard, are full of vitamins A and K. These help fight inflammation and keep your bones strong. Some greens even contain various B vitamins (B6, B12, and folic acid) which are known to reduce levels of a compound called homocysteine in the blood. High levels of homocysteine have been associated with the increase of stroke, cognitive impairment, and Alzheimer’s disease risks.