Eat yourself smart
Ever wondered if you can eat your way to a smarter brain? Well, it would appear, you can indeed. From salmon to lentils, there are some surprising things on the list too. For instance, scientists at the University of Reading in the UK have found that champagne contains something called “phenolic compounds”, which can stimulate signals in the parts of the brain used to control memory and learning, counteracting memory loss associated with ageing. In particular, it is helpful with spatial memory, which allows us to record information about our surroundings and navigate around it. The benefits are noticeable with one to two glasses a week, but it can't be any old fizzy white wine. It was discovered that the nutrients are only abundant in the two red grapes used to make champagne – pinot noir and pinot meurier. Here we’ve compiled a list of some of the foods that might just up your IQ. Quick, get shopping!
Salmon: Omega-3 fatty acids are an all-important nutrient to help improve mental alertness and wellbeing. Said “good” fats are linked to improved memory and brain function, and have been shown to support healthy cognitive function as well as improving mood and helping to tackling stress.
Water: Ensuring your body is kept hydrated is essential for it to function at its fullest. This includes our brain cells. So, if you are feeling tired, irritable, or just a bit slow, drink a glass of water, wait 20 minutes, and see if it perks you up a bit.
Eggs: This breakfast favourite is packed with B-vitamins, omega-3 and 6 fats and amino acids to help support brain function.
Bananas: Rich in antioxidants and minerals that help to transport oxygen to the brain, bananas also contain nutrients like magnesium and potassium, which are essential for good cognitive function.
Oats: Wholegrain, slow-release foods like oats are not just good for providing your brain with a constant stream of energy, helping to stabilise energy levels and help your brain have a steady supply of glucose.
Walnuts: Hungry? Why not reach for a handful of nuts. Great for providing slow-release energy, as well as iron, omega-3 fatty acids, protein and vitamin E, walnuts are a great way to help with healthy brain function.
Champagne: Thanks to scientists at the University of Reading you now have a reason to not feel so guilty about having the odd glass. Bubbles contain something called “phenolic compounds”, which can stimulate signals in the parts of the brain used to control memory and learning, counteracting memory loss associated with ageing.
Dark chocolate: Chocoholics can rejoice – the dark stuff is good for your brain. This is because it contains antioxidants and minerals like magnesium and iron, all of which help to transport oxygen to the brain.
Spinach: Containing all of the brain-boosting minerals you can think of, plus beautifying anti-oxidants and skin conditioning minerals, spinach is a no-brainer.
Broccoli: Providing a whole host of vitamins and minerals essential for brain functioning, including iron, B-vitamins, potassium and calcium, broccoli is one of the most nutrient-rich vegetables.
Steak: Steak is also rich in iron – a mineral essential for oxygen transportation. In order for our brain cells to develop, multiply and work to their maximum function they need a steady and plentiful supply of oxygen, so getting your fill of minerals like iron is essential.
Lentils: Rich in protein, B-vitamins, iron and slow-release energy, lentils are good for your brain for several reasons.
Plums: Full of natural sugars to provide slow-release energy; plums also contain fibre and antioxidants.