There are few things more frustrating than brain fog. When unable to think clearly, you often feel like you’re losing control, or worrying over something insignificant. You don’t have the foggiest idea of how to solve a problem, or how to best organize your thoughts. This fogginess can stem from lack of sleep, an unhealthy diet, or simply being engaged in the mentally-taxing activity.
Luckily, there are several foods you can incorporate into your diet to boost your memory. Avocado, blueberries, salmon, dark chocolate, and walnuts all contain healthy doses of antioxidants, nutrients that boost cognitive health and function. Food can be a great way to improve memory, but it can be hard to know what to eat. Here are some ideas.
1. Blueberries (and other berries)
Blueberries are rich in flavonoids, which have antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and anti-thrombotic properties. These properties make them useful for treating depression and anxiety, and also for reducing the risk of thrombosis and stroke. Blueberries also have benefits for the cardiovascular system. Studies show that eating blueberries regularly may protect against atherosclerosis, the hardening of the arteries caused by plaque buildup.
2. Walnuts
Walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain health. Eating walnuts regularly may reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease. Walnuts are also rich in antioxidants, which have been found, among other things, to improve memory.
3. Fish
Fish like salmon and sardines are high in omega-3 fatty acids. These fats are important for normal brain function. A 2012 study, published in The Journal of Nutrition, found that omega-3 fats may be especially important for memory in older people.
4. Eggs
Eggs are a rich source of choline, a nutrient important for brain development and function. An old study found that eggs were one of the best food sources of choline. Choline, in turn, is important for normal memory.
