You are what you eat. You’ve likely heard this phrase a time or two, but the foods we fuel our body with really do have a significant impact on our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. A person’s diet actually plays a vital role in their ability to focus on tasks and get things done.

Today, we’re honing in on “brain foods” or foods that have been proven to help improve various functions of the mind. Because we love improved mental clarity and concentration for us.

blueberries

Studies have credited blueberries with reducing the effects of age-related diseases such as dementia and Alzheimer’s. 

Blueberries have anthocyanins in them, which help boost energy production in the cells, as well as improve metabolism and reduce inflammation. This fruit not only fights cognitive decline, but also provides enhanced mental clarity, flexibility, memory, and self-control. That, coupled with the simple fact that blueberries are just yum af.

coffee

We doubt we really need to give you an excuse to drink coffee. But, drinking a cup of coffee in the morning can really help jumpstart your brain and get you alert and ready for the day. Lots of people around the world use coffee as a mind enhancer to get motivated, to get work done, or to complete their Target run (which is obviously very important).

Studies have also shown that coffee has many positive effects on memory. Drinking caffeine boosts cognitive ability and makes memories resistant to forgetting. Sign us up ASAP.

eggs

Research has credited eggs with improving cognitive function and enhancing mental abilities. Eggs are packed with a nutrient known as choline, which the brain turns into acetylcholine. This substance acts as a neurotransmitter that enhances cell communication and helps brains retain memories. 

Individuals with high levels of choline perform better on cognitive exams for memory and focus. Over easy, please.

nuts

Nuts are chock-full of healthy fats and oils that the brain uses to function, as well as omega-3 fatty acids that help improve mental performance and memory. 

These brain-boosting nutrients have been shown in multiple studies to lower the risk of cognitive decline in people as they age, as well as maintain a sharper memory. 

leafy green veggies

Leafy greens are rich in nutrients that provide individuals with lots of energy over the day. They hold high levels of neuroprotective nutrients that comprehensively improve brain function.

Green vegetables have also been shown to reduce the risk of age-related mental diseases such as Alzheimer’s. Simply adding one serving of leafy greens per day can greatly increase one’s mental clarity and concentration.

dark chocolate

Dark chocolate is also considered to be “brain food” and for that, we are thankful. Studies have shown that eating dark chocolate increases blood flow to the brain, oxygen levels, and nerve function. Adults who regularly consume dark chocolate perform better on tests of memory, both short-term and long-term. 

Researchers believe this could be in part due to the flavanols in dark chocolate, which are plant-based nutrients that act as anti-inflammatories and antioxidants. Other foods such as apples, grapes, broccoli, and kale are also rich in flavanols. Again, did we really need an excuse to eat chocolate? Not at all.

fish

Fish are full of omega-3 fatty acids which have been proven to enhance mental performance and memory. Those who have low omega-3s are more likely to be forgetful and experience low moods and fatigue. 

Fish has also been credited with improving concentration. Many individuals have chosen to add omega-3 fatty acid fish oil pills into their diet to improve their cognitive health. 

Oh, and as always, don’t forget to drink your water.