Brain Food: Eating to Get Smart

From listening to Mozart to doing Sudoku puzzles, there’s plenty of things out there that we do because they make us smarter—or, at least, because we think they make us smarter.

But there’s something even more simple we can all do that’s been scientifically proven to help increase our brain power (or protect it), and that’s eat our way toward better mental function. Here are just a few foods hailed as “brain foods” that you may want to add to your diet.

Cinnamon: Not only is cinnamon one of the most delicious spices ever (OK, at least to me, it is), its scent also helps to stimulate your brain. Maybe the reason I’ve chewed Big Red gum all my life is because it betters your memory, attention, visual-motor speed, focus and recognition—or maybe it’s just because the flavor rocks.

Eggs: Eggs—or, egg yolks in particular—are full of choline, a nutrient that has been linked to protecting brains from decline. Adults who take in more choline may be able to improve their memory as well.

Green Tea: Given that it’s full of antioxidants, it’s not surprising that people who drink green tea regularly have been found to show less decline of mental function as they age—something that drinkers of other forms of tea, as well as coffee, don’t experience.

Cranberries: Antioxidant-rich cranberries are considered a superfood, and may protect brain cells against damage in stroke victims.

Turmeric/Curry: The chemical in turmeric that makes it yellow, curcumin, is a powerful antioxidant that reduces plaque buildup in your brain.

Chocolate: Chocolate—dark chocolate in particular—is very high in antioxidants, which can protect your brain. Other sources include red wine, blueberries, black beans and spinach, though chocolate has a higher antioxidant quotient than any of them.

Blueberries: Speaking of these fruits, did you know that blueberries also fight inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease?

Sage: This herb actually has the same compounds in it that Alzheimer’s disease-fighting drugs contain, and Sage oil extract can help improve memory function.

Nuts: Healthy fats are essential for good brain function, and nuts are a great source of these good fats. Fish are a good source as well.

Saffron: To naturally fight depression, add some saffron to your diet; in fact, saffron was proven in one study to be as effective as Prozac if eaten twice daily. It also improves your memory and learning in general.