We all know that the kind of food you eat has a major impact on your health. Eating right can reduce the risk of a variety of diseases, from heart disease to many types cancer. But does what we eat really have an impact on our cognitive abilities? An article published in The Economist, titled “Food for thought” highlights the research of several scientists who believe that eating certain foods—from fish to berries— does have an impact on our ability to think, concentrate, memorize, as well as potentially placating depression and mental illness. Below, Yo Naturals Healthy Vending has compiled some of the top foods that will make you think.

Salmon, Walnuts, and Kiwi

These 3 foods were cited in The Economist article as having Omega-3’s. They’ve been shown to improve memory and learning, and may have such benefits as helping depression in addition to mental illnesses like schizophrenia and ADD. According to Dr. Gómez-Pinilla, professor of neurosurgery and physiological science at the University of California, children whose mothers took fish-oil supplements (which contain omega-3’s) while pregnant and breastfeeding performed better cognitively than other children their age.

Spinach, Orange Juice, and Marmite

The Economist also highlighted the research in Lancet from last year which suggests that folic-acid supplements can stave off the inevitable decline that comes with ageing. Spinach, orange juice, and marmite are all packed with folic acid, so make sure you’re eating enough of these nutritious foods.

Berries, Tea, and Turmeric

Everyone knows that antioxidants are great for you—but once again, according to The Economist, studies show that they may help cognitive abilities. In one study, polyphenols were shown to boost the ability of rodents to learn and memorize. A certain type of polyphenol called curcumin has also been shown to assist memory in animals that have brain damage. Curcumin is found turmeric, and berries and tea are excellent sources of antioxidants as well.

Vegetable Oils, Nuts, Leafy Green Vegetables

The study also suggests that Vitamin E assists in memory retention in the elderly as well as with a longer life. The good news is that delicious nuts, leafy green vegetables, and vegetable oil are all packed with Vitamin E!

As The Economist notes, eating well is one way to keep your brain active—but it is also wise to eat small portions. In addition, exercise is another great way to stay healthy and active. Combining a good diet with an exercise routine is one of the best ways to keep your body—and your mind!—healthy for years to come. YoNaturals wishes you a  a healthy life!

SOURCE:
The Economist, “Food for thought.” July 19th-25th 2008

Article written by Bethany Cox.