Like many people, I sometimes get the feeling that my memory isn’t what it used to be. Do you ever get that feeling too? We often assume that our forgetfulness is just a fact of life due to aging, but memory loss is not inevitable. Actually, there is a strong relationship between diet and lifestyle factors and cognitive decline. Read on for my tips to boost your brain health through nutrition.
Peppermint Tea
Peppermint tea is not only delicious but also boosts both long and short-term memory. As an added bonus, peppermint is also used as a digestive aid, reducing gas and increasing bile function. As an alternative, you can use aromatherapy of peppermint essential oil as it helps increase alertness. Enjoy your peppermint tea throughout the day, but to wind down before bed, switch to something more calming such as chamomile.
Turmeric
Turmeric is an anti-inflammatory herb commonly used in curries that also happens to be associated with improvements in working memory. This study found memory improvements using turmeric in amounts as we normally would in cooking. If you don’t like curry, no worries, there are other ways to enjoy turmeric! Try this popular turmeric tea recipe from Meghan Telpner.
Berries
Berries have a high level of antioxidants and vitamin C that are beneficial to brain health. Specifically, pomegranate and blueberries have shown benefits for memory improvements in those with memory complaints. I love including berries in smoothies, chia parfaits and on salads. This recipe from Damn Delicious is one of my favourites.
Healthy Fats
Optimal brain function requires key nutrients such as essential fatty acids. Many of us grew up with the incorrect messaging that fat was bad and would “make you fat”. Staying away from fat and consuming “low fat” products can be detrimental to our health. It’s easy to include healthy fats in our diet by snacking on nuts or seeds, adding avocado to salads, and combining coconut oil in our smoothies. In fact, coconut oil is associated with a boost in brain function after just one dose!
Download this meal plan with recipes and guide as it includes multiple coconut oil recipes you will love!
Lifestyle Factors
Diet doesn’t act alone in supporting our brain’s health. Lifestyle is a key component too! Adequate sleep and exercise are both associated with improved cognitive and memory function. And, since exercise improves our ability to get adequate sleep, it is doubly important! Make sure to choose an activity that you enjoy so you will make it a part of your life and look forward to it.
