Want to keep your brain sharp? Add these 6 foods to your diet and know their benefits | Health

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Praveen Gupta, Principal Director and Chief of Neurology, Fortis Hospital, shared foods that are healthy for your brain.

Why should you eat right for your brain?

She pointed out how the right foods also reduce the risks of neurodegenerative diseases. Dr Gupta said,”Eating a healthy diet is not just about maintaining a strong body, but also a sharp mind. Proper brain nutrition fuels cognitive function and plays a crucial role in preventing neurodegenerative diseases like dementia. What we feed our brain today impacts its health in the long run, ensuring better mental clarity and longevity.”

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Top foods for brain

Dr Praveen Gupta shared this detailed guide of brain-healthy foods, covering the nutritional profile along with benefits:

1. All berries

(Strawberry, blueberry, jamun, blackberry, falsa, amla)

Nutritional profile:

• Vitamins: Vitamin C, Vitamin K
• Minerals: Manganese
• Fibre and antioxidants (especially flavonoids)

Benefits:

• Helps improve memory.
• Reduces brain inflammation.
• Enhances communication between neurons.

2. Fish

Nutritional profile:

• Vitamins: Vitamin D, Vitamin B12
• Minerals: Selenium, Iodine
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids (EPA and DHA), Protein

Benefits:

• Improves brain structure and function.
• Helps maintain a good mood.
• Enhances concentration and memory.

3. Walnuts, pine nuts, almonds

Nutritional profile:

• Vitamins: Vitamin E, Vitamin B6
• Minerals: Magnesium, Copper
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Protein, Fibre

Benefits:

• Reduces brain inflammation.
• Improves neurological health.
• Helps reduce stress.

4. Dark Chocolate (at least 70% cocoa)

Nutritional profile:

• Flavonoids, Caffeine
• Iron, Magnesium, Fibre

Benefits:

• Increases blood flow, supplying more oxygen to the brain.
• Instantly boosts mood.
• Enhances focus and mental alertness.

5. All the dark coloured vegetables

(Broccoli, spinach, beetroot etc.)

Nutritional profile:

• Vitamins: Vitamin K, Vitamin C, Vitamin A
• Minerals: Iron, Potassium
• Fibre and Antioxidants

Benefits:

• Boosts brainpower.
• Protects neurons.
• Sharpens memory.

6. Eggs / Dals for vegetarians

Nutritional profile:

• Vitamins: Vitamin B6, B12, Vitamin D
• Minerals: Selenium, Zinc
• Choline: An essential nutrient for brain health

Benefits:

• Essential for brain cell development and functioning.
• Helps enhance concentration and memory.

Note to readers: This article is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions about a medical condition.