While we’ve always known that what we eat affects our bodies and how we look, scientists continue to uncover evidence that what we eat plays a viral role in the health of our brains. When it comes to staying mentally sharp and focused, eating plenty of brain foods matters, especially for our gray matter.

The gut and the brain are tightly connected, and when we focus on giving our bodies whole, nutritious foods, we help take care of both.

Which foods are best for your brain? Among the top brain-healthy foods are fruits, veggies, oils and even chocolate. There’s something to please everyone.

A number of important hormones and neurotransmitters are created in the gut and are then able to enter the brain, which influences cognitive abilities, such as understanding and processing new information, plus memory and concentration. This means that a well-functioning gut is essential for sending the brain the kind of chemical signals that keeps our brain functioning at our best.

Below are some foods for brain experts recommend regularly to help stave off age-related cognitive decline.

They include;

1.Egg Yolks

On the nutritional naughty list for years, egg yolks are finally experiencing their well-deserved day in the sun. If you’ve been having only egg whites, the yolk’s on you.

Yolks contain large amounts of choline, which helps in fetal brain development for pregnant women. It also breaks down bethane, a chemical that produces hormones related to feelings of well-being.

If you’ve kept away from consuming eggs whole because of cholesterol concerns, there’s good news. Studies show that eating eggs typically has no effect on the cholesterol levels of healthy adults and might, in fact, help raise good cholesterol levels.

It’s also one of the most inexpensive sources of protein out there. Just be sure you buy organic, free-range eggs.

Need some egg-spiration? I love these baked eggs and spinach and breakfast salmon egg bake. For even more ideas, try whipping up one of these delicious egg recipes.

2.Avocados

While avocados often get a bad rep because of their high fat content, it’s important to note that these green powerhouses are packed with monounsaturated fats or the “good” kind, which have been shown to lower rates of cognitive decline and keep blood sugar levels steady.

Containing both vitamin K and folate, avocados help prevent blood clots in the brain (protecting against stroke), as well as help improve brain functions related to memory and concentration.

They’re also rich in vitamin B and vitamin C, which aren’t stored in your body and need to be replenished daily. Plus, they have the highest protein and lowest sugar content of any fruit. 

3.Turmeric

Isn’t it great when a simple spice has amazing benefits? That’s the case with turmeric, an ancient root that’s been used for its healing properties throughout history.

Thanks to curcumin, a chemical compound found in turmeric, the spice is actually one of the most powerful (and natural) anti-inflammatory agents.

Turmeric also helps boost antioxidant levels and keep your immune system healthy, while also improving your brain’s oxygen intake, keeping you alert and able to process information. Talk about a super spice!

Start your day with this brain food by consuming turmeric eggs and turmeric tea. For even more benefits, combine turmeric with black pepper to help improve absorption and with other spices like ginger and cinnamon for digestive and metabolic support.

4.Salmon and Other Oily Fish

If you like fish, get excited, because salmon is one of the most nutritious brain foods out there! It’s packed with omega-3 fatty acids to help keep your brain smoothly. 

If you have kids, feeding them oily fish, such as sardines or trout, may help prevent ADHD by improving their focus. These same fatty acids may also help prevent the development of Alzheimer’s and dementia.

Conclusion

What foods are true brain foods? 

Some of the top foods for brain health include oily fish, eggs, turmeric, berries, avocado and other veggies and olive or coconut oil.

These nutrient-packed brain foods fight disease and protect brain cells by providing antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, which can aid in memory, concentration, a positive mood and a better “gut-brain-connection.”

Brain-boosting foods may also reduce your risk for Alzheimer’s, dementia, depression and other mental health conditions — plus most brain foods support your immune and digestive systems too.