Foods, Vitamins & Herbs That Boost Your Brain Power
The right foods will help you use your brain to the max, and the more you use it, the more you'll challenge your brain to grow new cells, create new connections, and improve your problem-solving and memory.
Before I tell you about the many great foods that will keep your brain performing at its peak, remember — eat whole foods that are fresh and as close to their natural state as possible. Also, drink plenty of pure, clean water, which is 85 percent of your brain's weight.
Did you know that water can actually increase your alertness? When you're feeling sluggish in the afternoon, instead of grabbing a caffeinated, carbonated drink, pour yourself a tall glass of distilled water.
Pick foods your great, great grandparents would have eaten, and stay away from so-called modern, highly processed foods that are filled with nasty chemicals. Many foods today are genetically modified. So, they are not as nutritious as organic, natural foods. And even worse, they can be dangerous to your health.
Foods that Boost Your Brain Power
Diets rich in berries can reduce, or even reverse, declining brain function. Blueberries, in particular, have been shown to have the ability to improve memory and keep your brain young. [1], [2] They can also help you improve your balance and coordination.
Berries are rich in antioxidants which protect your brain cells from oxidation and free radical damage.[3] These antioxidants may slow down brain aging and prevent disease, while promoting the growth of healthy brain cells.
The Healthiest Berries
- Blueberries
- Blackberries
- Red Grapes
- Strawberries
- Raspberries
- Cranberries
- Goji Berries
- Mulberries
- Boysenberries
- Acai Berries
The South American acai berry has more antioxidants than any other berry. Plus, they contain omega fatty acids and are high in protein.
Stick to bright colors when choosing fruits and vegetables. Yellow and orange vegetables are typically rich in beta-carotene, a powerful antioxidant that converts to vitamin A in your body. Dark leafy green vegetables and citrus fruits are packed with vitamin C.
Both vitamins A and C are linked to improving your memory and reasoning powers and keeping your arteries functioning properly.
Foods High in Beta-Carotene & Vitamin C:
- Mangos
- Oranges
- Carrots
- Broccoli
- Tomatoes
- Cantaloupe
- Rainbow Chard
- Green, Red & Yellow Peppers
Vegetables and fruits contain natural sugars that keep you alert. Your brain needs natural sugars to function at its best.
Avocados are rich in good fat and vitamin E, while many sprouted grains are rich in fiber. Both are good for your circulatory system. And what's good for your blood flow, is great for your brain. Avoid gluten, however, since it can lead to brain fog.
The Importance of Essential Fatty Acids
Essential fatty acids are also necessary for maximum brainpower, as well as promoting normal brain growth and development. Studies show that eating foods that are high in omega fatty acids can reduce the risk of some disease, too. These fatty acids also help boost memory and your ability to learn new things!
Other sources of good Omega fatty Acids are marine plants, such as blue-green algae, and nut or seed oils.
All nuts, particularly walnuts, feed your brain because they boost serotonin levels. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that controls sleep, depression, memory, and other neurological processes.[4]
Raw unprocessed organic olive oil, coconut oil, and hempseed oil also contain brain-healthy fats, fibers, and proteins. I recommend 1 to 2 tablespoons daily.
Foods High in Folic Acid
- Okra
- Spinach
- Lentils
- Collards
- Asparagus
- Black Beans
- Garbanzo Beans
- Romaine Lettuce
- Black-Eyed Peas
- Sunflower Seeds
Did you know that flaxseed and real organic chocolate are brain food, too! They're filled with vitamin E which keeps your brain healthy later in life. Real chocolate also releases dopamine, to enhance cognition and mood.
Be sure to eat chocolate that is minimally processed and retains the purest cacao - as close to the bean as possible. That means either 100 percent organic cocoa powder or a dark chocolate bar with at least 75 percent cacao content. You'll need to be careful of the chocolate you buy; seek fairtrade, ethical products.
Vitamins & Herbs that Boost Your Brain Power
These vitamins and minerals help your memory and reasoning powers while slowing down the signs of aging.
- Vitamin A
- Vitamin C
- Vitamin E
- Folic Acid
- B Vitamins
- Magnesium
Some researchers suggest that the herbs ginseng and gingko have a positive impact on your brain, keeping you alert and improving memory.
Did you know that body detoxing can boost your brainpower, too? By eliminating the toxic chemicals and heavy metals that build up in your body from your environment and diet, you can rid your brain of free radicals that contribute to disease, aging, and poor health. A liver cleanse can help remove toxins, improve digestion, and restore energy to your body and mind.
Eating the proper foods enhances your brain functions. And using your brain for reading and learning new skills, such as a musical instrument, a new language, or computer skills — even conquering crossword puzzles regularly will keep your brain quick and nimble.
Remember, processed foods are often too starchy, fatty, and sugary for good health and often do more harm than good for your body and brain. Seek out raw, whole fruit and vegetables as often as possible. Live foods present your body with beneficial energy as well as natural nutrients.
I also recommend getting a cellphone protector for your phone to reduce any harmful radiation leaking into your brain tissue.
References (5)
- KRIKORIAN, R. "Blueberry Supplementation Improves Memory in Older Adults." 2010.
- Carey, Amanda N, Stacey M Gomes, and Barbara Shukitt-Hale. "Blueberry supplementation improves memory in middle-aged mice fed a high-fat diet." Journal of agricultural and food chemistry 62.18 (2014): 3972-3978.
- Leigh Erin Connealy MD. The importance of antioxidants in fruits and vegetables. Natural News. 2008 Novermber 05.
- "Serotonin | C10H12N2O - PubChem." 2015. 12 Feb. 2016
- Frazer, Alan, and Julie G Hensler. "Serotonin involvement in physiological function and behavior." (1999).
†Results may vary. Information and statements made are for education purposes and are not intended to replace the advice of your doctor. If you have a severe medical condition or health concern, see your physician.
Dr. Edward Group, DC
FOUNDER | HEALER | ADVOCATEDr. Group, DC is a healer and alternative health advocate, and an industry leader and innovator in the field of natural health who is dedicated to helping others. He is a registered doctor of chiropractic (DC), a naturopathic practitioner (NP), and proud alum of Harvard Business School and MIT Sloan School of Management. Dr. Group, DC is the founder of Global Healing – a mission and vision he has shared through best-selling books and frequent media appearances. He aims to spread his message of positivity, hope, and wellness throughout the world.
