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Foods That Help the Brain Learn

The brain requires nutrition for memory, concentration and focus. A consumer can create a weekly meal plan to include carbohydrates, fats and proteins from a variety of brain foods. Some common brain foods that help with learning include whole grains, vegetables, seafood, nuts & seeds and fruits.

  1. Whole Grains

    • Whole grains are good nutrition sources, including B vitamins, dietary fiber and iron. Iron supplies oxygen to the blood, which travels to the brain. Eating whole grains allows for better thinking and concentration. One source of whole grains is whole-wheat bread. Consumers can spread peanut butter on a slice of whole-wheat bread.

    Vegetables

    • Vegetables have vitamins and minerals with low calories. One common vegetable considered a brain food is spinach, which provides folic acid and vitamin B12. Other vegetables for a healthy brain include romaine lettuce, red peppers and artichoke hearts.

    Seafood

    • Fish has essential nutrients, including zinc, iron, and omega-3 fatty acids. Each is important for blood flow, which allows for brain retention. According to the State of Alaska's Department of Health & Social Services, good choices include herring, black cod and canned chunk tuna light. Approximately 6 oz. should be eaten twice weekly.

    Nuts and Seeds

    • Nuts and seeds have fat, protein and vitamin E, which provide brain nutrition for absorbing information. Individuals can add seeds such as flax seeds to salads and soups; nuts such as cashews can be blended into smoothies and milkshakes.

    Fruits

    • Berries have antioxidants, which helps the brain with memory and cognition. This brain retention allows individuals to absorb information. Some berries include strawberries, mulberries and blackberries, which can be added to cold breakfast cereal or hot oatmeal.

    Water

    • The body needs water for joint lubrication and to supply brain energy. Consumers can increase water intake by drinking coffee and herbal tea or by eating more vegetables and fruits such as strawberries. Sliced citrus fruit, including limes and lemons, can add flavor to water.

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