Have you ever wondered, “What are the best foods to eat as you age, especially the ones that can help improve and protect our brains?”

We are talking about food for thought! Literally!

Our diets can impact our bodies in a variety of different ways. Certain foods have nutritional properties that can immensely improve our mental capabilities. Below, we’ve outlined some of the best brain foods that can help with memory and cognitive abilities.

Avocados: Avocados are rich in monounsaturated fatty acids, these are the “good for you fats,” the ones our bodies need and love. Avocados are great because they can prevent blood clots in the brain, which is most basically stroke prevention. Avocados are also filled with protein and essential vitamins that need to be replenished daily such as vitamin B and vitamin C. Avocados can be added to various different dishes such as salads, in smoothies, or paired with an egg for breakfast.

Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is known for being an anti-inflammatory and has shown to temporarily improve the memory of those with dementia. Virgin coconut oil can be a great and healthier substitute for butter when baking or cooking.

Dark Chocolate: The darker the chocolate, typically the healthier it is for you! Snacking on dark chocolate is a great way to help lower blood pressure and allow blood flow to be improved to the heart and the brain. In addition, dark chocolate has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties which allow you to fulfill a craving of your sweet tooth and get some healthy benefits at the same time.

Salmon: This fish is full of nutritious value that can improve our mental abilities. Salmon contains omega-3 which is another form of those “good for you fats,” the ones that help us improve our memories. Salmon is also a great source of protein. However, be mindful of the type of salmon being purchased as wild caught Alaskan salmon is the best variety of salmon to eat for its greatest health benefits.

Berries: Blueberries and strawberries have incredible health benefits. According to research conducted by the Nurses Health Study, “greater intake of blueberries and strawberries were associated with slower rates of cognitive decline.” Blueberries, in particular, are full of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber which help to protect our brains from deteriorating. A few blueberries a day can help keep our brains from going astray!

There are a wide variety of “superfoods” that can improve our brain's capabilities. Adding these foods into our everyday diets can have positive effects. As we get older, our diets definitely become more important and can impact us either positively or negatively. Be proactive, take the time to do some research and ensure you or an elderly loved one is maintaining a healthy diet!