Eating for a Healthy Brain

So, the first priority for getting the highest brain j performance is to consume sufficient amounts of protein each day. Insights are cognitively taxing to the human brain, so it makes sense that fueling our neurotransmitters with high-octane fuel —protein —is essential for high-powered thinking.

Next come antioxidants from foods like blueberries, Matcha green tea, and walnuts, which stave off cognitive cell damage. We need healthy cells in order to burn new circuitry, and as we established earlier, the more circuits we burn, the more fodder we have for insightful problem-solving.

In addition, high-quality dark chocolate is known to activate the production of dopamine, which has a direct impact on both memory and learning, and so this may also give the brain the boost it needs to encourage insight.

Finally, Omega-3 fatty acids from fish (coldwater fish like wild salmon) have been proven to suppress brain cell inflammation. The human brain is more than 60 percent fat, so an insufficiency of Omega-3 fats leads to depression, poor memory, and learning disabilities—all known obstacles to insight.

Many new books now suggest that certain foods are better for brain health than others. And every year scientists and nutritionists learn more about the ideal mix of fuels required for thinking. But so far the fundamentals appear remarkably consistent no matter which expert you believe: Keep our protein, antioxidants, and Omega-3 acids high; treat ourselves to high-quality chocolate every once in a while; remember to take a multivitamin (loaded with B-complex and potassium) every day; and drink sufficient amounts of water.

Foods Associated with Higher Brain Functioning

Blueberries, Cranberries, Raspberries, Strawberries, and Blackberries

Avocados, Carrots, Tomatoes, and Eggplant

Spinach, Kale, Romaine Lettuce, Brussels Sprout, and Broccoli

Wild Salmon, Sardines, and Herring

Sunflower Seeds, Sesame Seeds, Flax Seeds, and Pumpkin Seeds

Walnuts, Hazelnuts, Brazil Nuts, Filberts, Almonds, Cashews, and Peanuts

Oatmeal

Brown Rice

Whole Grain Breads

Popcorn

Barley

Black Beans, Lima Beans, Pinto Beans, Kidney Beans, Garbanzo Beans, Great Northern Beans, Navy Beans, Peas, and Lentils

Cantaloupe, Mangos, Apricots, Papaya, Oranges, Prunes, Red Grapes, and Cherries

Freshly Brewed Green Tea

Dark Chocolate

Water (eight glasses per day)

Sage

Eggs

Curry Spice

Includes a list of foods associated with improved brain functions