10 foods for normal brain health and cognitive function

The brain is our powerhouse, our control center when it comes to performing complex tasks and making decisions. Keeping our brain in good shape is essential to maintaining a healthy and balanced lifestyle. In addition to mental stimulation and regular exercise, we can also benefit from nature's pantry by including foods known to promote brain health. In this blog post, we will focus on some of these foods and explore why they can be beneficial for our brain.

1. Beetroot - Nature's own performance enhancer: Beetroot is not only a colorful root vegetable but also a fantastic ally for the brain. Beets are rich in antioxidants and natural nitric oxides, which can improve blood flow to the brain and increase oxygen supply. This can help maintain cognitive function.
2. Moringa - Nature's powerhouse: Moringa, also known as the "Miracle Tree", is known for its nutrient density and ability to support the body's overall health. This superfood is rich in antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are important for the normal functions of the brain. Research also suggests that moringa can support our cognitive abilities.
3. Lion's Mane - The Smart Mushroom: The Lion's Mane mushroom, also known as the "Brain Mushroom", is a fascinating organism that has been used in traditional Eastern medicine for centuries. It contains compounds that may help maintain the production of nerve growth factors in the brain. These properties can help maintain a good memory, concentration even in old age.
4. Apple - A crunchy brain boost: "An apple a day keeps the doctor away" - an old saying that has a basis in reality. Apples are rich in antioxidants and flavonoids, which have been shown to help maintain brain health. In addition, apples contain vitamin C and quercetin, which are beneficial for brain health.
5. Blueberry - These colorful berries are packed with antioxidants and polyphenols that help maintain communication between brain cells and support memory function Regular consumption of blueberries has also been linked to maintaining good learning and cognitive abilities.
6. Black pepper - Spice up your brain: Black pepper is a spice that we might not think of as a brain-friendly ingredient, but it actually has some interesting benefits for the brain. Black pepper contains a compound called piperine, which can support the absorption of other nutrients and increase their effectiveness in the body. By increasing nutrient absorption, black pepper can support brain function and promote healthy cognitive development.
7. Avocado - Brain health in a green fruit: Avocado is not only delicious, it is also a powerful source of healthy fats. It is rich in monounsaturated fats that can promote normal brain health by contributing to good cholesterol levels and normal blood flow to the brain.
8. Nuts and seeds - nuts and seeds, such as walnuts, almonds, flax seeds and chia seeds, are small powerhouses of nutrients that benefit the brain. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can support cognitive functions and protect brain cells. Including a handful of nuts and seeds in your diet regularly can provide a healthy dose of brain-friendly nutrients.
9. Kale - Kale is a nutritious leafy vegetable that can provide a number of benefits for brain health. It is rich in antioxidants, including carotenoids and flavonoids, which are good for the brain. Kale also contains omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that may contribute to normal cognitive function and promote healthy brain function.
10. Dark Chocolate - Dark chocolate, with a high cocoa content, contains antioxidants and flavonoids that can contribute to normal blood flow to the brain, support a happy mood and maintain normal cognitive abilities. But remember to choose dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa to get the best benefits and limit intake to moderate amounts.

By including these ten foods in your diet, you can give your brain a healthy and nutritious boost. However, remember that a balanced diet, regular physical activity and good sleep are important components for maintaining normal brain health.

Our superfood mix Magic Mind contains beetroot, moringa, lion's mane, apple, blueberry and black pepper, which contributes to maintaining the normal cognitive functions of the brain; focus, memory and concentration.

So take care of your brain by choosing the right foods and making healthy choices every day!

Sources:

1. The Swedish Food Agency 

2. The brain fund 

3. Effects of Beetroot Juice Supplementation on Cognition, Olfaction, and Cardiovascular Function in Older Individuals.

4. Moringa oleifera: A review on nutritional importance and its medicinal application.

5. Lion's Mane, Hericium erinaceus and Tiger Milk, Lignosus rhinocerus (Higher Basidiomycetes) Medicinal Mushrooms Stimulate Neurite Outgrowth in Dissociated Cells of Brain, Spinal Cord, and Retina: An In Vitro Study.

6. Apple phytochemicals and their health benefits.