Examples of Brain Food

People continually look for ways to make themselves smarter and increase their brain capacity; doctors are looking for dietary solutions that can prevent memory dysfunction caused by Alzheimer's Disease and dementia. Many experts believe that certain foods can increase mental capacity, both in the short term and in the elderly years. Some foods are even believed to be able to stall or reverse the effects of memory loss.

B Vitamins and Folic Acid

• Spinach is highly recommended as a brain food.

  Many of the foods that are recommended for brain health are those rich in folic acid and other B vitamins. Some of the foods that are included in this category are spinach, strawberries, broccoli, asparagus, black beans, legumes, melons, soybeans and citrus fruits. All of these foods aid in the production of oxygen-carrying red blood cells.

Antioxidants and Beta Carotene

• Antioxidants, such as vitamins C and E, and beta carotene help fight free radicals, which can damage brain cells. These foods include berries, tomatoes, nuts, seeds, sweet potatoes, spinach, broccoli, green tea and liver. Grape juice in particular is highly recommended, according to the AARP.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• These fatty acids are associated with brain function. Foods included in this group are cold water fish, walnuts and flaxseed. Salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel and halibut are the most recommended fishes. These foods are also in the healthy fats category, and help fight against heart disease and high cholesterol, as well.

Supplements

• Supplements of these foods are recommended for seniors, because seniors have a higher incidence of folic acid and B-12 deficiencies. Omega-3 supplements are recommended for anyone who does not eat enough fish. It's always best to get most of your nutrients from foods instead of supplements, because vitamins and nutrients are better absorbed in their natural form.