Everyone can probably agree that healthier food choices make for a healthier body. But what about the brain? Is it possible to improve brain function, such as memory, through diet?  According to the Alzheimer Society of Canada, while research is still ongoing, “in the long-term, nutritious food helps maintain brain function and slow memory decline.”
So what’s on the menu when it comes to supporting memory? Here are some tasty meal options worth remembering:

Fish

Particularly fatty types of fish such as salmon, tuna and mackerel, that are rich in healthy omega-3 fatty acids in the form of EPA and DHA, which are easy for our bodies to use. Omega-3 fats cannot be made by the human body, but are important for supporting healthy brain, heart, and joint functions. Omega-3 supplements are also available.

Dark green leafy veggies

Go green with kale, spinach and other vegetables that are good sources of vitamin E and folate. Folate is thought to lower the levels of homocysteine in the blood, homocysteine is an amino acid that may cause the death of nerve cells in the brain.

Blueberries

Some research has shown that eating dark red or purple fruits and vegetables such as blueberries can help improve or delay short-term memory loss. The benefit comes from protective compounds called anthocyanins, which may also help to improve balance and coordination.

Nuts

Rich in vitamin E, nuts may be another tasty way to help prevent cognitive decline. A good source of healthy fats, nuts such as almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts are a crunchy and satisfying way to help keep the heart and brain healthy and functioning properly.

Pumpkin seeds

Don’t wait for Halloween; pumpkin seeds are a yummy way to up your intake of memory-enhancing zinc and stress-combatting magnesium any time of the year. These pumpkiny powerhouses also contain B vitamins and tryptophan and they taste great either on their own or added to salads or trailmixes.

Broccoli

Loaded with brain-friendly vitamin K and Choline, broccoli is another heavy hitter that may help to support cognitive function. High in glucosinolates, broccoli may also slow the breakdown of acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps the central nervous system to perform properly and keeps brain and memory function sharp.

Curry

Comforting and flavourful, curry has another thing going for it: turmeric. This spice is made from curcumin, which helps prevent inflammation and may have significant impact on brain health. If you don’t fancy eating curry at every meal, a more efficient source of curcumin is through a supplement.
Of course, eating a varied diet containing plenty of colorful fruits and vegetables is always a smart bet, for brain and body.