A healthy brain and the food you eat. ‘What we put in, is what we get out!’ has never been truer than taking a look at how obese and unhealthy society has become. The brain is the ‘powerhouse’ of the body, it controls each and every movement, each and every thought and each and every bodily function.

Why is it then that we abuse it by feeding it sugar and junk food instead of healthy vitamin-rich foods and oils? We need to focus on foods that feed the body and mind, only the best that nature has to offer. A balanced diet which includes fish, whole grains, nuts, greens and berries will boost your health and promote a healthy mind too.

Here are a few of our top picks for healthy brain foods:

1. Oily fish
Oily fish contains the brain building oils known as Essential Fatty Acids, these are vital for effective brain function. Oily fish include Salmon, Sardines, Mackerel and Kippers to name but a few. Studies have shown that low levels of Essential Fatty Acids may result in Alzheimer’s.

2. Wholegrain foods
Whole grains are essential for energy release needed by both mind and body, the benefit of whole grains is that they are low GI, a slow release source of energy to sustain you all through the day.

3. Power berries
There are so many power berries (superfoods) in the market today.  Our favourites are still those rich in anti-oxidants such as blueberries, blackcurrants, blackberries and pomegranate seeds. These are rich in vitamin C as well as anti-oxidants known as polyphenols. Polyphenols banish inflammation. They also encourage communication between neurons in the brain. Berries have been shown to improve memory loss.

4. Pumpkin seeds
Just a small handful per day provides the brain with the vital mineral zinc. This has been shown to markedly improve memory loss in recent studies.

5. Broccoli and other leafy greens
Green leafy veg such as spinach, kale and broccoli all provide a healthy source of vitamin K, vitamin E and folate. These are known to enhance cognitive function and improve brainpower.

Healthy brain habits

Support local farmers and small organic producers. Don’t forget to add nutraceuticals which give you added vitamins and minerals your mind and body needs. If you struggle to focus consider a program such as neurofeedback. These programs can teach you how to better cope and maximise focus.

So there you have it! In a world overwrought with junk food it is becoming increasingly urgent that we become conscious of what we are putting into our bodies. Good food is vital especially when the demands of daily life are getting so much greater.