Brain-Boosting Foods
Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are rich in these compounds that help protect cells from oxidative stress.
Antioxidants
Omega-3s are a type of this major nutrient.
Fat
This nutrient found in leafy greens is also important for normal blood clotting.
Vitamin K
Going long periods without eating can contribute to low energy and difficulty with this mental ability.
Concentration/focus
This neurotransmitter plays an important role in motivation, reward, reinforcement, and learning and is heavily involved in the brain’s response to addictive substances.
Dopamine
Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are especially good dietary sources of this brain-supporting type of fat.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Name ONE fatty fish that provides omega-3s.
Salmon, mackerel, or sardines
This mineral is needed to make hemoglobin, which helps red blood cells transport oxygen.
Meals containing protein, fiber, and healthy fats tend to provide more sustained energy than meals dominated by this rapidly digested nutrient.
Carbohydrates/Simple Sugars
This essential everyday substance is important for circulation, temperature regulation, and normal cognitive functioning.
Water
Spinach, kale, and Swiss chard belong to this brain-friendly vegetable category.
Leafy greens
This omega-3 fatty acid is particularly important as a structural component of the brain.
DHA
Berries and many fruits and vegetables contain this antioxidant vitamin.
Vitamin C
Dehydration can negatively affect attention, energy, and this emotional state.
Mood
This type of stress occurs when unstable molecules damage cells and is one reason antioxidant-rich foods are studied in relation to brain health.
Oxidative
Berries contain this group of plant compounds that gives many berries their rich color and may help protect brain cells from oxidative stress and inflammation.
Flavonoids
Name TWO plant foods from the slides that can increase omega-3 intake.
Flaxseeds and walnuts
Nuts and seeds can provide this antioxidant vitamin that helps protect cells from oxidative damage.
Vitamin E
Omega-3 fatty acids have been studied for their relationship with brain function and symptoms associated with these two common mental-health conditions.
Depression & Anxiety
This part of the brain plays a major role in forming new memories and is particularly important for learning.
Hippocampus
This naturally occurring pigment and antioxidant found in leafy greens such as spinach and kale can accumulate in brain tissue and is also well known for its role in eye health.
Lutein
The omega-3 found primarily in plant foods such as flaxseed and walnuts is different from the DHA found in fatty fish. Name it.
ALA
This B vitamin found in leafy greens is important for DNA synthesis, cell division, and normal nervous-system function.
Folate (vitamin B9)
The communication network connecting the digestive system and the brain is commonly called this.
Gut/Brain Axis
This brain region is heavily involved in executive functioning, including impulse control, planning, judgment, and decision-making, and its functioning can be disrupted by chronic substance use.
Prefrontal Cortex