Boost Brain Power with these Superfoods

When it comes to food, you have a wealth of delicious choices. And each one not only tastes good but also supplies unique health benefits. From blueberries to dark chocolate, leading nutritionists and physicians are pointing to certain foods that enhance brain power and, they say, a heart-healthy lifestyle.

Although there’s no conclusive research about the healthful brain benefits of particular supplements, food sources rich in vitamin E and Omega 3 fatty acids may provide benefit, says Jillian McMullen, R.D., LD/N, Outpatient Clinical Dietician with Mayo Clinic.

Vitamin E-rich foods include vegetable oils, nuts, seeds, green leafy vegetables, and whole grains. Omega 3-rich foods include fish, walnuts and flax seeds.

“We also know that adequate amounts of B vitamins are essential for brain function,” says McMullen. “Some studies suggest a protective role of vitamins B9 (folic acid) and B12, but more research is needed before we can recommend these supplements. It doesn’t hurt to eat foods rich in folic acid such as green, leafy vegetables, fortified breads and cereals, and dried beans, as well as those chocked full of vitamin B12 like fish, meat, eggs, cheese and chicken.”

It’s All About Balance

There’s no denying that as we age, our body (and brain) ages right along with us. Getting older brings some risk of cognitive problems such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. There’s also increased brain function risk from certain diseases like hypertension, diabetes and obesity that can cause damage to the brain.

“Theoretically, we can control these diseases and keep our brain healthy unlike old age or genetic factors that we can’t control,” says Floyd Willis, M.D., family medicine practitioner and creator of Mayo Clinic’s “LiveWell. ThinkWell.” program.

It all ties together, Willis says. People who have the most risk of strokes are those with hypertension, diabetes and obesity. “Often, people don’t associate the truism that as goes the heart, so goes the brain (and kidney). The impetus of the Mayo ‘LiveWell. ThinkWell.’ healthy brain program is about maintaining a healthy balance and healthy lifestyle.”

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