Good for Your Brain: Why Chocolate, Coffee, etc are the Best Foods

Our brains are super important, and we should take better care of them. We need to eat right to keep our brains sharp as we age. We looked into the research to help you make clever choices at the grocery store and keep your medulla oblongata (that’s just a fancy word for the brain stem) strong. Want some exciting words for your vocab? Here are some surprising foods to include in your eating plan to keep your noggin strong. So, let’s eat smart and keep our brains in top shape!

Coffee

Let’s be honest: Your brain likes coffee, and science agrees. Coffee has good stuff called antioxidants, especially phenylindane, which protects your brain. Studies show that drinking coffee and caffeinated drinks for a long time may lower the risk of brain issues like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. But, there’s a catch. A study says 1 to 2 cups a day over 3.5 years is great for your brain. But more than 2 cups or suddenly having lots can be not-so-good. So, enjoy your coffee, but not too much – moderation is key for a happy and healthy brain.

Dark Chocolate

Thinking about that second piece of chocolate cake? Here’s a fun fact: Places that eat a lot of chocolate have more Nobel Prize winners. Cool, right? It’s because dark chocolate has good stuff called flavonols that fight inflammation and help your brain. In a small study, people with 1.7 ounces of 70% cacao chocolate had better brain activity for thinking and remembering. So, grab some high-quality dark chocolate, without extra sugar or fat, and enjoy. It’s a tasty treat that might just boost your brainpower.

Salmon

Your brain is mostly fat, and fish with omega-3 fatty acids can be its friend. A 2018 review found that omega-3 helps older brains stay sharp. Another study in 2014 says eating more fish (not just for omega-3) is good for the gray matter in your brain. Gray matter does lots of important things like controlling muscles, emotions, decisions, and memories. Not into salmon? No worries! Try other fatty fish like sardines, mackerel, or herring. If you’re plant-based, go for flaxseed, chia seeds, or walnuts. But remember, the benefits are a bit less in plants. Keep that brain happy!

Walnuts

Nuts are a clever snack, and now science agrees! Walnuts are full of good stuff like phytochemicals and polyunsaturated fats, which are great for your brain. In 2012, a study said a diet with lots of walnuts helps your working memory. Another study in 2011 found that eating nuts is linked to better thinking speed, flexibility, memory, and overall brain function. Even college students got smarter in a 2012 study by snacking on walnuts for 8 weeks! Sprinkle walnuts on oats, salads, or cookies, stir them into chili, or use them instead of meat in burgers. Delicious and brain-friendly!

Blue Berries

Grab those yummy blueberries for a healthy brain! Berries, especially blue ones, are packed with anthocyanins and other good stuff that might help your memory, says a 2014 review. In a big study, guys who ate lots of fruit for 20 years had a lower risk of brain problems later in life. Can’t find blueberries? No worries – blackberries, raspberries, cherries, and other colorful fruits are just as good. Please keep it simple, snack on berries, and give your brain a tasty boost!

Green Tea

Don’t fancy coffee? No worries! Green tea could be your brain’s buddy. A 2017 review says it can boost memory, brain function, and attention during tricky thinking tasks. The magic combo of caffeine and L-theanine in green tea makes it brain-friendly. Just brew your green tea or matcha latte without extra sugar, or ask for it unsweetened when you order. Enjoy the goodness without the added sweetness for a brain-boosting sip!

These tasty treats are backed by research for their brain-boosting benefits. Make simple swaps, like choosing walnuts over ground meat or unsweetened green tea. Fuel your brain and enjoy a sharp, healthy mind! Like this post? Don’t forget to check out our other short stories in our Quick Read section