Eat a Balanced Diet for a Healthy Brain

Emerging research on nutrition and brain function shows definite benefits to eating a balanced diet and a wide variety of nutrients. Specific foods may have a favorable effect on brain function through anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, and other biochemical activities. Here are some foods that might help you think more clearly and have a better memory:
• Strawberries, blueberries, blackberries, raspberries, and other berries
• Vitamin D, obtained through foods such as fish and fortified milk, and from sun exposure
• Omega-3s, found in fatty fish such as sardines and mackerel, and in other foods such as eggs, flaxseeds, walnuts, soybeans.
• Healthy fats (polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats), such as in olive, canola, peanut, sesame and safflower oils, nuts, and avocadoes.
• Green tea
Future research will help us understand more clearly the role that specific foods and dietary supplements play in brain health and overall health.

Nutritional Neuroscience. June 2009.