4 Types of Vitamins and Foods that are Good for the Brain
The brain has a role as the driving center of the human body. Therefore, the brain needs nutrients and vitamins to function optimally. When you eat a balanced diet that has a combination of vitamins, minerals, healthy fats and more, your brain will absorb the nutrients it needs.
According to nutritional epidemiologist Puja Agarwal, nutrients such as flavonoids, unsaturated fats and omega-3 fatty acids can slow cognitive decline and reduce the risk of dementia. As reported by Prevention, here are 4 types of vitamins and nutrients that improve brain performance.
- Omega 3 Fatty Acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are a type of unsaturated fat that has brain protective substances. Omega 3s have also been linked to reduced levels of beta amyloid, a protein found in the brains of people with Alzheimer’s.
“Omega 3 fatty acids easily cross the blood-brain barrier and are essential for brain structure and function,” says Dr. Agarwal.
2. Vitamin E
Vitamin E functions as an antioxidant in the body. In addition, vitamin E also functions to protect brain cells from oxidative stress.
Oxidative stress is a type of damage caused by free radicals. This stress can also cause Alzheimer’s.
3. Vitamin B
Types of B vitamins that are good for the brain are B6, B12, and B9 (folate). This vitamin helps increase the production of neurotransmitters, chemicals that convey messages between the brain and the body.
Vitamin B6 can be found in bananas, oranges, papayas, tuna, and salmon. Vitamin B9 or folate can be found in broccoli, vegetables, eggs, beans, and sunflower seeds.
4. Vitamin C
Besides being known as an antioxidant, vitamin C also helps the brain work by dealing with inflammation that damages the brain.
According to a Rush University study, people who regularly eat strawberries with high vitamin C content have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer’s.
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