Food for the mind: what to eat to make your brain work better. Foods that are good for brain function What you need to eat for brain function

It is known that in order for the brain to work, it must be trained, as well as eat right. Every day he does a great job, being responsible not only for thoughts and memory, but also for any of our movements. In addition to memorizing poems, solving crossword puzzles and puzzles, our body needs foods that are healthy for the brain.

You can help your brain do its job better if you know the features of a “smart” diet. The editors of the site have compiled for you a selection of the 12 most beneficial products for the brain.

What foods are the healthiest for the adult brain?

Scientists are still far from unraveling all the secrets associated with the functioning of the human brain. But they unanimously agree on one thing - it has an amazing device and must be handled with care. And this means loading it with spiritual food and regularly consuming foods that are healthy for the brain.

Create a healthy diet for the most important organ human body not difficult. The main thing is to know that there are foods that stimulate the brain. They will help him work more efficiently and save good memory for many years.

12 foods to improve memory and concentration

1. Sea fish: herring, salmon, salmon, tuna

Any fish contains phosphorus, which is good for the brain. And sea fish also contains omega-3 fatty acids, which improve memory, increase concentration, and increase performance. In addition, omega-3s improve mood and prevent the development of Alzheimer's disease.

2 eggs

If you do intense mental work, then a couple of eggs a day will definitely not hurt you. Choline, which is contained in the yolk, is called a building material for brain cells. This amino acid promotes better memory function, good mood, and lecithin slows down the aging process.

3. Blueberries

Blueberries are recommended to be included in the diet of those who want to think quickly at any age. It contains antioxidants that fight forgetfulness and help you learn new things. Any berries improve brain performance, but the leaders are recognized: blueberries, raspberries and blackberries.

4. Dried apricots

Dried apricots are not only a source of glucose, which is important for normal brain function, but also iron and vitamin C. Dried fruit helps fight fatigue, stress and improves analytical thinking.

5. Cabbage, spinach, greens

These products are one of the most available ways fight memory loss and age-related diseases such as Alzheimer's and dementia. They contain so many nutrients and vitamins (beta-carotene, folic acid, lutein) that promote brain rejuvenation.

6. Seeds and nuts

All types of nuts and seeds contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper. All these nutrients needed for nutrition and brain function. They act as natural antidepressants, improve mood and help solve complex problems.

7. Dark chocolate and cocoa

A cup of cocoa or a bar of dark chocolate helps you better cope with intellectual tasks and remember information. Flavonoids and antioxidants contained in cocoa beans are needed for good memory, quick thinking and excellent mood. Unfortunately, any other type of chocolate except dark chocolate, candies and cakes contain more sugar than cocoa. Therefore, they have almost no benefit for the brain.

8. Green tea

Green tea gently stimulates the nervous system and helps the brain work faster and more efficiently. It is also rich in antioxidants, which protect against the development of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's disease.

9. Oatmeal

Oatmeal and other whole grains (wheat, barley, bran, brown rice) stimulate blood circulation in the brain and saturate it with oxygen. Healthy grains in the diet are needed for good memory and are especially useful for older people.

10. Oranges

Sunny oranges contain vitamin C, a strong antioxidant that protects the brain from age-related changes. One orange a day will significantly improve your mental abilities and memory. Kiwi works the same way.

11. Carrot

Carrots can slow down the processes of brain aging and memory loss. And all thanks to beta-carotene, which it is rich in and which prevents cell destruction.

12. Turmeric

Turmeric contains a substance - curcumin, which is recognized as one of the beneficial products for brain function. It improves memory, helps fight depression, bad mood and age-related changes in the brain.

What foods are good for a child's brain?

A proper diet will help your child better absorb and remember information, restore energy faster and work productively. All products that are recommended for adults are suitable for schoolchildren without allergies. However, parents should ensure the correct ratio of proteins, carbohydrates and fats that the child receives every day:

    50% proteins (legumes, poultry, fish, cereals, hard cheese, cottage cheese, eggs, nuts);

    15% fat (meat, heart, liver, eggs, chocolate, nuts, fish, vegetable oil);

    35% carbohydrates (buckwheat, oatmeal, carrots, potatoes, pumpkin, beets, brown rice, fruits).

Food for the mind should not only be spiritual. In order for the brain to be grateful and work smoothly, it needs to be fed with tasty nutrients. Our rating of essential foods for the brain will help you create the right menu.

Thank you sea


As you know, the brain consists of billions of neurons. If the level of cholesterol in the body is exceeded, they begin to slow down brain function. To prevent this from happening, you need to consume fatty acids, which are found in abundance in fish. According to doctors, the healthiest fish for the brain are salmon, tuna and herring. Seafood can do a lot too. Oysters, shrimp and mussels are rich in B vitamins, iron and zinc, which have a beneficial effect on memory and other mental processes. Their regular consumption prevents the development of cancer.

Berry cocktail

Almost any berries are good for the brain. Many of them contain fisetin and flavonoids, which guarantee good memory and slow down the aging process. Blueberries increase attention and improve motor skills. Raspberries and blackberries, like other berries, are loaded with antioxidants that stimulate brain function. Cranberries strengthen blood vessels and help enrich the brain with oxygen. This berry helps to effectively combat the consequences of a stroke, as well as reduce the risk of its occurrence.

The yolk is the head of everything

As we age, brain cells gradually die. Eggs are the best way to combat this inevitable process. The yolk contains choline, a kind of building material for brain cells. Another beneficial substance, lutein, reduces the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Eggs are also rich in lecithin, which fights free radicals and slows down the aging process. A couple of eggs a day will enrich the brain with all these elements and help cope with heavy mental stress.

Healthy heart - healthy brain

Glucose is one of the vital necessary elements nutrition for the body. Its deficiency can lead to brain exhaustion and, as a result, fatigue, various nervous disorders and stress. First of all, this applies to adherents of strict diets. The most useful source of glucose is dried fruits, in particular dried apricots. It is rich in iron, necessary for the fruitful functioning of the brain. Vitamin C, in turn, helps it be better absorbed. In addition, dried apricots dilute blood clots in blood vessels, lower cholesterol levels and minimize the risk of heart attack.

Smart cereals


It's no secret that whole grains are faithful allies of those losing weight. But not everyone knows that they are still friends with the brain. Folic acid, found in bran, wheat, oatmeal, brown rice and barley, stimulates blood flow to the brain, thereby saturating it with oxygen and nutrients. In addition, thiamine (vitamin B1) present in these products significantly improves memory. Therefore, whole grains are especially useful for those over 60. However, prevention at any age is never superfluous.

Nuts for the head

Include nuts in your menu more often or snack on them between meals. Walnuts, peanuts, almonds, cashews, hazelnuts, pecans are real storehouses of omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, as well as vitamins B6, E and folic acid. This is the best gift for the brain, as it keeps it in good shape. Many nuts contain thiamine and magnesium, which provide energy to the brain. The seeds will also benefit him. Pumpkin seeds, for example, are full of tryptophan, an amino acid that stimulates the production of serotonin, better known as the “happy hormone.”

Cabbage platter


Don't forget about cabbage. Brussels sprouts contain the substance diindolymethane, the main purpose of which is to protect neurons from destruction and remove free radicals from the body. Sea kale is rich in iodine. Its deficiency is dangerous not only for the thyroid gland, but also for nervous system, as it often leads to increased irritability, insomnia and depression. Red cabbage is a source of powerful polyphenol antioxidants. And the anthocyanin it contains increases elasticity and permeability blood vessels, which has a positive effect on brain function.

Vitamin Champion

Unprepossessing at first glance, spinach leaves have an inexhaustible supply of nutrients. Combination of vitamins B6 and B12 with folic acid– the best cocktail for the brain that will help train excellent memory. Regular consumption of this green vegetable will prevent premature aging of brain cells and will be a good prevention of Alzheimer's disease. In addition, spinach is rich in iron, the lack of which, among other ailments, is fraught with cognitive impairment.

Drink for smart people


Dark chocolate rich in cocoa beans is the perfect treat for an overworked brain. A third of a chocolate bar a day will perfectly invigorate the brain and charge it with fresh strength. Flavonoids will ensure blood flow to the brain, and magnesium will take care of memory. A number of interesting studies have shown that those who drank a cup of hot chocolate coped with complex math problems faster than those who were left without the sweet dope. In addition, fans of this delicacy are less susceptible to seasonal depression.

Tea wisdom

A cup of green tea in the morning is not only a healthy alternative to coffee, but also a generous portion of cahetins. Their lack creates a feeling of powerlessness and emptiness, familiar to almost every person, combined with ineradicable laziness. The powerful antioxidants cahetins help in the fight against this scourge. On the one hand, they actively stimulate mental activity, on the other, they allow the brain to quickly switch to a gentle mode and avoid overload. In short, this is an excellent recharge of energy at any time of the day.

Grief comes not only from the mind, but also from a weakened brain. So take care of it every day. A list of the healthiest foods for the brain will help you.

The brain is the most important human organ. It is responsible for the proper functioning of all organs and systems of the body.

Consists of two hemispheres (right and left), the cerebellum and the brain stem. It is represented by two types of cells: gray brain cells and neurons - white nerve cells.

  • The brain's processing speed is much faster than the average computer.
  • A three-year-old child has three times more nerve cells than an adult. Over time, unused cells die. And only three to four percent remain employed!
  • The brain has the best system blood circulation The length of all brain vessels is 161 thousand kilometers.
  • During wakefulness, the brain generates electrical energy that can power a small light bulb.
  • A man's brain is 10% larger than a woman's.

Vitamins and microelements necessary for the brain

The main function of the brain is to carry out brain activity. That is, the analysis of all information coming to it. And in order for all brain structures to work smoothly and without failures, you need a nutritious diet containing vitamins and microelements such as:

  • Glucose. An important component that ensures productive brain function is glucose. It is found in foods such as raisins, dried apricots, and honey.
  • Vitamin C. Vitamin C is found in large quantities in citrus fruits, black currants, Japanese quince, bell pepper and sea buckthorn.
  • Iron. This is the most important element our brain needs. Its greatest amount is found in foods such as green apples and liver. There is also a lot of it in grains and legumes.
  • B vitamins. Vitamins of this group are also necessary for the normal functioning of our brain. They are found in liver, corn, egg yolks, beans, and bran.
  • Calcium. Largest quantity organic calcium, found in dairy products, cheese and egg yolks.
  • Lecithin. Being a powerful antioxidant, lecithin is also responsible for the normal functioning of the brain. Products such as poultry meat, soybeans, eggs and liver are rich in it.
  • Magnesium. Protects the brain from stress. It is found in buckwheat, rice, leafy greens, beans, and also in grain bread.
  • Omega class acids. Part of the brain and nerve sheaths. Found in fatty fish (mackerel, salmon, tuna). Also present in walnuts, olive and vegetable oils.

The healthiest foods for the brain

Walnuts . Slow down the aging process of the body. Improves brain function. Contain a large amount of polyunsaturated acids. Vitamins B1, B2, C, PP, carotene. Microelements – iron, iodine, cobalt, magnesium, zinc, copper. In addition, they contain juglone (a valuable phytoncidal substance).

. Blueberries are very good for the brain. It helps improve memory and prevents cardiovascular diseases.

Chicken eggs . Eggs are a source of a substance essential for the brain, lutein, which reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke. Prevents thrombus formation. According to English nutritionists, eating up to two eggs a day is good for the brain.

Black chocolate. This product is an important stimulant of brain activity. It activates brain cells, dilates blood vessels, and is involved in supplying the brain with oxygen. Chocolate is useful for disorders of the brain caused by lack of sleep and overwork. Helps to recover faster after a stroke. In addition, it contains phosphorus, which nourishes the brain, and magnesium, which is responsible for cellular balance.

. Prevents the destruction of brain cells, slows down the aging process.

Sea kale. Seaweed is one of the foods that is very beneficial for brain function. It contains a huge amount of iodine. And since its deficiency is fraught with irritability, insomnia, memory disorders and depression, the inclusion of this product in the diet allows you to avoid all this.

Fatty fish. Fish, which is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, is very beneficial for the brain.

. Rich in proteins, a source of selenium and B vitamins.

. Spinach contains a huge amount of nutrients. It is a reliable source of antioxidants, vitamins A, C, K and iron. Protects the body from diseases such as stroke and heart attack.

The brain needs adequate nutrition to function actively. It is advisable to exclude harmful chemicals and preservatives from the diet.

Research involving over 1,000,000 students showed the following results. Students whose lunches did not include artificial flavors, colors and preservatives scored 14% better on IQ tests than students who ate the additives. . Causes moisture retention in the body. As a result, blood pressure increases, which in turn can cause a hemorrhagic stroke.

  • Fat meat. Increases cholesterol levels and, as a result, cerebral atherosclerosis.
  • Sweet carbonated drinks, crackers, sausages and others shelf-stable products. Contains chemicals harmful to brain function.
  • We have collected the most important points about proper nutrition for the brain in this illustration and we will be grateful if you share the picture in social network or blog, with a link to this page:


    Brain cells are highly vulnerable. It is not at all difficult to disable them - it is enough to limit the supply of nutrients, and then obvious problems will begin with the biochemical processes on which human intellectual activity directly depends. Special nutrition for the brain is not an idle invention at all. With a chronic lack of proteins, amino acids, as well as a number of vitamins and microelements, brain cells undergo deformation. Naturally, full functioning of the nervous system in such conditions is simply impossible.

    Fans of all kinds of diets have no idea that with their “hobbies” they are attacking their own brain. If it is sometimes useful to abstain from eating to correct your figure, then for impeccable brain activity and high mental productivity you need to adhere to a strict diet. It should include at least four approaches to eating - breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner.

    Here are a few rules to help you avoid nervous disorders:

  • try to have 4 to 6 meals throughout the day;
  • never skip breakfast, do not “push” it to a later time and do not try to combine it with lunch;
  • It is advisable to have breakfast, lunch, afternoon snack and dinner at the same time every day.
  • The Most Important Nutrients for the Brain

    So, what is the best food for the brain? It needs proteins, fats, carbohydrates, glucose, vitamins, and various micro- and macroelements. In addition, antioxidants are also useful, helping to protect brain cells from the aging process.

    Squirrels. Proteins contain amino acids with the participation of which the transmission process occurs nerve impulses. With a lack of proteins, the brain begins to suffer from a lack of energy. It has been noticed that vegetarians, upon reaching a certain “experience,” notice memory disorders. And, if they want to improve memory and attention, they need to return to eating animal proteins.

    Fats. The brain itself consists of more than 60% fatty tissue and therefore needs fatty “reinforcements” from the outside. But do not forget that there are “good” and “bad” fats: the latter cause the formation of cholesterol plaques in the blood vessels.

    Carbohydrates and glucose. For the brain to function properly, a component such as insulin is also needed. Therefore, in a diet aimed at improving brain activity, carbohydrates, both simple and complex, also occupy an important place. Scientists have proven that a person’s intelligence increases noticeably after he eats something sweet, that is, receives a portion of glucose.

    Vitamins. Flexibility of thinking, ability to concentrate and strong memory will be supported by B vitamins, especially B6 and B12. Their sources should be sought in green vegetables.

    Micro and macro elements. Reducing the risk of developing various diseases and pathologies of the nervous system are promoted by potassium, calcium, zinc, magnesium, phosphorus, sulfur, copper and iron. When choosing a special diet for the brain, you need to rely on foods rich in these substances.

    Foods that are good for the brain

    In one article it is impossible to list all the varieties of animal and plant products that can bring invaluable benefits to brain health. There are a lot of them, and you can find them in almost everyone unique properties. But we will list only those that must be on your table at least 2-3 times a week.

  • Fish. Natural fillets of sea and river fish contain polyunsaturated fatty acids that normalize cholesterol levels in the blood. People who regularly eat fish practically do not suffer from Alzheimer's disease.
  • Eggs. Egg yolk is a storehouse of vitamin B6, which guards memory and helps overcome fatigue.
  • Blueberry. Medicine knows of cases where, thanks to the consumption of blueberries, people's memory returned - completely or partially.
  • Nuts. It is no coincidence that walnut kernels are visually similar to the hemispheres of the human brain - they contain impressive reserves of vitamin E and Omega-3 and Omega-6 polyunsaturated fatty acids, which ensure mental clarity. Other types of nuts, such as peanuts or hazelnuts, are also useful for improving brain function.
  • Wheat bran. They contain zinc, a deficiency of which the body faces the threat of developing atherosclerosis.
  • Apples. Rich in vitamins chemical composition apples have a beneficial effect on the condition of blood vessels. And the strong and elastic walls of the brain vessels are reliable protection from strokes and hemorrhages.
  • P.S.: What should nutrition for the brain be like in your opinion? Please tell us about this in the comments to the article.