Physical exercise can keep our body in good shape and slow the hands of time, but what can we do to keep our brains fit and sharp well into old age? Research shows that compounds in whole foods including vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and fatty acids can help buffer our brains from the effects of aging.
Here are some nutrition heavyweights to help keep our brains in in tip top shape for many years to come.
THE "B" IN BRAIN
B vitamins — particularly vitamin B12, vitamin B6 and folate — are vital brain boosters. Evidence shows that ample intake of this trio of vitamins is associated with reduced brain inflammation and cognitive decline, including decreased risk for Alzheimer’s disease.
The unfortunate irony? Our ability to absorb these vitamins, especially B12, becomes less efficient as the years pass. But you can focus your food choices to keep your body and brain fully stocked.
• Vitamin B12: Organic poultry, grass-fed meats, fish & seafood, organic dairy & eggs
• Vitamin B6: Organic turkey, grass-feed beef, sweet potatoes, sunflower & sesame seeds
• Folate: Leafy greens, broccoli, asparagus, legumes like lentils & black beans
An easy way to ensure you get all of your B’s is with Super B-Complex™ which provides a perfect balance of all eight essential B vitamins made with wholesome organic veggies and fruits, then activated with enzymes and probiotics for enhanced bioavailability.
OMEGA-3 MUST HAVES
No brain food list would be complete without mention of omega-3 fatty acids including EPA, DHA and ALA. They're essential in supporting the production of healthy brain and nerve cells that are critical for learning, memory, mood, and cognitive function. Low levels of these brain-boosting fatty acids have been associated with negative effects on mental and cognitive wellness.
Go for brain gold with 2-3 servings of whole-food sources of omega-3 fish per week. And don’t forget plant-based sources like flax seeds and walnuts. Your brain will thank you!
• Omega 3 Fatty Acids: Wild salmon, trout, sardines, flax seeds and oil, walnuts, krill oil
FLAVONOID FAVORITES
Flavonoids are a group of antioxidant plant compounds as well as a brain food favorite! Chocolate, green tea, red wine, and citrus fruits are overflowing with fantastic flavonoids with varying functions. For example, green tea contains catechins and epicatcheins which may promote alertness, memory and focus. While the flavonoids in chocolate and cocoa flock to the area of the brain dealing with memory and learning.
• Flavonoids: Dark chocolate, green tea, red wine, citrus fruits
Matcha green tea is not only the rarest, but also the most beneficial form of green tea with more than 10x the antioxidants compared to traditional teas and many well-known superfoods. Organic Matcha Power® assists healthy memory and cognitive function. It gently lifts and sustains your energy, concentration, and productivity while simultaneously supporting your overall health and well-being.
Want all of the health benefits of red wine, but not the alcohol or calories? SuperPure® Resveratrol is derived exclusively from both organic red wine grape skins and organic Japanese knotweed root. Just one capsule contains the most bioavailable “trans” form of this antioxidant powerhouse, equivalent to over 60 glasses of organic red wine!
