The Top 5 Nutrient-Rich Products for Improving Memory and Concentration
The heart and brain are considered the busiest organs in the human body. But unlike the heart, which can often miss a beat or go into total failure and need jump-starting, the brain never sleeps.
In fact, you’re pretty much dead when your brain goes into shock and stops firing electrical signals.
Ironically, most people don’t give their brain the attention it deserves when making dietary choices. They’d rather focus more on the health of their skin, hair, bones, gut, and other visceral organs. But did you know that eating certain foods can optimize your brain’s performance?
In this post, we look at the top five nutritious products that can boost two key brain functions – memory and concentration.
1. Broccoli
Broccoli is a famous leafy vegetable whose nutritional profile has been a subject of discussion for years. The vegetable is loaded with brain-healthy compounds, including vitamin C (ascorbic acid) and flavonoids.
Both vitamin C and flavonoids are powerful antioxidants. The nutrients can boost your mental performance by reversing the oxidative damage caused by free radicals on the brain cells.
Free radicals are harmful by-products of various metabolic processes. These compounds can increase the risks of disease if allowed to accumulate in the body.
Vitamin K is another essential brain-healthy nutrient in broccoli. Studies have established a correlation between vitamin K intake and improved memory, concentration, and cognitive performance.
Broccoli is also high in glucosinolates, which the body metabolizes into isothiocyanates. Isothiocyanates are associated with reduced risks of neurodegenerative diseases.
2. Fatty Fish
You’ve probably come across many publications encouraging white meat while discouraging red meat intake. Well, most of these dietary counsels are inspired by solid scientific research.
Fatty fish like salmon, sardines, herring, and trout are a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential to healthy brain development.
In fact, approximately 60% of the brain comprises fat, with omega-3 fatty acids responsible for half the brain’s fat content.
Omega-3 fatty acids help in the generation of brain tissue and nerve c. There are multiple studies citing these compounds for their ability to enhance memory and cognitive performance.
Some researchers have gone as far as to prove that an increased intake of fatty fish may decelerate the progression of age-related mental illnesses like Alzheimer’s disease. A deficiency in the same has been linked to learning difficulties, anxiety, and depression.
3. Kratom
Kratom, botanically known as Mitragyna speciosa, is a tree native to Southeast Asia, widely touted for its numerous health benefits. Extracts from the herb have proven effective at treating pain, inflammation, anxiety, erectile dysfunction (ED), and other common medical ailments.
There’s limited research on kratom’s direct effects on brain performance. However, studies have shown that the herb may treat stress and anxiety, two of the leading causes of diminished mental focus. Kratom also contains anti-inflammatory properties. Therefore, it might boost memory and concentration by alleviating brain inflammation.
Although still widely considered a novelty drug, it’s easy to find the best kratom vendors like Big Bear Kratom, who offer premium-quality products at affordable rates.
One way to identify a reputable kratom vendor is to check online reviews posted by their clients. Credible suppliers will naturally attract more positive than negative feedback.
It’s also important to insist on a kratom company that deals in products which have undergone rigorous testing and come with proof in the form of a certificate of analysis (CoA). And while you’re at it, ensure the testing was done by independent laboratories, not those affiliated with the company.
4. Walnuts
Nuts, in general, are packed with powerful antioxidants that can defend the body from a wide range of medical conditions, including diseases of the brain. Examples of these compounds include fatty acids, polyphenols, and vitamin E.
One study established that regular intake of nuts may minimize the risks of cognitive decline in adults.
A similar 2014 study found that women who consumed nuts regularly for several years demonstrated better cognitive abilities than those who didn’t eat nuts.
Walnuts are considered among the best nuts in terms of the number and density of antioxidants. These nuts are high in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), polyphenols, and phytosterols.
PUFAs are probably most famous for their anti-cholesterol effects, which makes them perfect for maintaining a healthy heart. However, these compounds may also work synergistically with other antioxidants in walnuts to lower the risks of neurodegenerative diseases.
5. Green Tea
Green tea has been part of folk medicine from time immemorial. The drink has been consumed in China from as far back as 2737 BC.
Interestingly, green tea was discovered by accident when Chinese Emperor Shennong mistakenly drank water containing a dead tea leaf. But after like the refreshing flavor, the emperor ordered that more of the tea be brewed. Green tea would become known for a myriad of health benefits, including its nootropic properties.
One of the many brain-healthy compounds in green tea is the amino acid L-theanine. When consumed, L-theanine crosses the blood-brain barrier to increase the signalling of gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), a neurotransmitter associated with reduced anxiety and mood swings.
L-theanine is also associated with the increased frequency of the brain’s alpha waves, which also have antidepressant properties.
And besides L-theanine, green tea packs polyphenols that can decelerate the progression of mental diseases like Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s
Wrap Up
Age-related cognitive decline is inevitable. However, it’s reassuring to know that the above-listed natural products can improve various aspects of cognitive performance, including memory and focus. Try any product that best suits your needs.
