Food with Vitamins for the Brain

Some types of foods have been indicated through research as good for assisting in cognitive function, improving memory, and restoring memory loss. These include foods high in antioxidants, particularly vitamins C and E. They also include B-complex vitamins, particularly B9 and B12. Foods with omega-3 fatty acids provide benefits as well.

Vitamin C

• Foods high in antioxidants clear away free radicals that cause cell damage. Vitamin C is a highly-recommended antioxidant, and is found in fruit, with blueberries and other berries showing special benefits for brain function. High amounts of vitamin C also are contained in tomatoes, broccoli, bell peppers and cabbage.

Vitamin E

• Vitamin E is another powerful antioxidant, found in whole grains such as wheat and oats, wheat germ, nuts and seeds, sardines, avocados, olive oil and leafy green vegetables.

B-Complex Vitamins

• The B-complex vitamins also are beneficial for brain function. These vitamins are included in large amounts in whole grains, leafy green vegetables, beans, peas, meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.

Folic Acid

• A deficiency of B9, or folic acid, as well as B12, have been linked to chemical depression. Foods that are good sources of folic acid include pinto beans, chickpeas, lentils, black-eyed peas, asparagus and sunflower seeds. B12 is found in meat, fish, eggs and dairy products.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Another healthy brain-power group of foods contain omega-3 fatty acids. Foods high in this substance include salmon, mackerel, sardines, herring, flax seed and walnuts.