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Are superfoods real? What are the benefits of superfoods? Do you have difficulty concentrating? We have all been there when we feel like our brain needs an extra boost to be able to concentrate better and although there’s no magic pill that you can pop and improve the concentration power, the good news is that superfoods can greatly help you in this regard.
There are many superfoods that are capable of enhancing the function of your brain and protect it against the cognitive decline that is associated with aging. This also helps in encouraging clarity and focus.
It should be remembered that we are what we eat, and it has been proved time and again that whatever you consume has a direct influence on your performance. Although there are several diets that claim to be effective for brain health, superfoods need special mention.
Are superfoods real?
Which foods count as superfoods? Superfoods are mostly plant-based foods that are naturally rich in vitamins, secondary plant compounds, minerals, omega-3 fatty acids, or other valuable ingredients. Declared as superfoods, they are often offered dried, as puree, extract or in capsule or powder form. In addition to domestic fruits, such as blueberries, many exotic foods, for example, goji berries, are also considered superfoods.
Superfoods include these foods:
- Various berries, e.g., acai berry, chokeberry, goji berry, and blueberry
- Spices, e.g. turmeric
- Algae and grasses
- Cocoa beans
- Certain fish, e.g. salmon
- Nuts and seeds, e.g. chia seeds, hemp seeds, dwarf millet (teff)
- Tea, e.g. green tea, matcha tea
- Vital mushrooms
- Yakon (Inca root)
There are many recipes where superfoods are recommended as a healthy ingredient, for example in salads, mueslis, or smoothies. In addition, some commercially available products are enriched with superfoods, such as chia buns or chia yogurt.
Superfoods list
Walnuts:
Walnuts are known for their anti-inflammatory properties and benefits for heart health and you can now add another advantage to that list because walnuts are also good for the brain. They are a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which promotes blood flow and permits efficient oxygen delivery to the brain.
Olive oil:
Olive oil is another incredible superfood that is good for your brain health. Besides being great for your skin and lower cholesterol, the oil which is a rich source of monounsaturated fats has also shown to slow brain aging.
Animal studies have shown that berries are wonder superfoods that help in the development of the brain. Another recent study established a link between the two and found that a diet rich in strawberries, blueberries, and other berries leads to decreased mental decline in specific areas such as focus and memory.
Fatty fish:
Fatty fish such as sardines and salmon are superfoods for the brain; all credit goes to the omega-3 fatty acids – EPA and DHA that have been linked to improved focus, reduced risk of dementia, and enhanced memory.
Dark Chocolate:
Dark Chocolate contains high amounts of antioxidants that are good for your entire body and the caffeine content helps in enhancing mental acuity. Chocolate also contains high flavonoids that aid in improving blood flow and lowers blood pressure.
Other superfoods for the brain that deserve a mention here are wheat germ, avocados, spinach, beets, and garlic. So, include them in your diet and boost your brainpower!
