What Are the Benefits of Brain Food?

Eating "brain foods" is part of an intelligent diet. By eating foods containing complex carbohydrates, proteins, Omega-3 fatty acids, iron and antioxidants, you can improve your concentration, memory, circulation, alertness and slow the aging process.

Complex Carbohydrates Improve Concentration

• Foods containing complex carbohydrates increase one's ability to concentrate because they provide a steady release of energy to the brain's cells. Foods include fruits such as apples and citrus fruits, cereals and grains, vegetables and legumes and dairy.

Proteins are Useful in Aiding the Memory

• Protein foods supply the amino acids necessary for the manufacture and operation of the brain's neurotransmitters. Neurotransmitters serve as chemical messengers by relaying messages from one brain cell to another and thus are helpful in memory functioning. Therefore, protein foods such as lean meats, dairy, soy and eggs are helpful in maximizing the thinking process.

Omega-3 Fatty Acid Increases Circulation

• Omega-3 fatty acids are healthy fats found in fish such as tuna and salmon and in flaxseed and canola oils. Eating a diet rich in this type of fat lowers the blood level of damaging fats such as cholesterol, improving circulation and brain function.

Iron Improves Alertness

• Many of the aforementioned foods also contain iron which enhances mental alertness. Primary foods containing iron include chicken and beef livers, sardines, lentils, oats and eggs.

Antioxidants Slow the Aging Process

• Antioxidants in foods combat the free radicals in the brain that cause degenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's. Fruits and vegetables, particularly Acai berries and greens, are helpful in maintaining the workings of the brain and slowing the aging process.