FoodTrients Says Boost Your Brain Function with These Nutrient-Packed Recipes
Staying mentally sharp is a priority for many, and while exercise and staying connected with loved ones are essential, the foods we eat play an equally crucial role in maintaining brain health. In a recent blog post, culinary health expert and visionary founder of FoodTrients.com, Grace O highlights key ingredients and delicious recipes that can help boost brain function, improve memory, and protect against cognitive decline.
Research shows that certain foods are packed with nutrients like antioxidants, healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals that support cognitive health. Incorporating these foods into your daily meals can provide long-term benefits for your mind and body. Here are some key brain-boosting foods that Grace recommends:
Fatty Fish – Salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, known to improve memory and protect against cognitive decline.
Berries – Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are packed with antioxidants that protect the brain from oxidative stress and may improve memory.
Nuts and Seeds – Walnuts, almonds, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are loaded with healthy fats and vitamin E, helping to reduce age-related cognitive decline. Pumpkin seeds are packed with magnesium, zinc, and copper, which benefit brain health.
Leafy Greens – Spinach, kale, and broccoli are rich in vitamins like K, lutein, and folate, all of which help slow cognitive decline.
Whole Grains – Foods like oats, quinoa, and brown rice provide a steady energy supply to the brain, enhancing focus and concentration.
Avocados – High in monounsaturated fats, avocados promote healthy blood flow, essential for optimal brain function.
Dark Chocolate – Containing flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants, dark chocolate may improve memory, attention, and mood.
Eggs – Rich in B vitamins and choline, eggs support brain function and development.
Turmeric – Its curcumin content is a powerful antioxidant that crosses the blood-brain barrier, boosting brain function.
Citrus Fruits – High in vitamin C, oranges and other citrus fruits protect against mental decline and free radicals.
Green Tea – A combination of caffeine and L-theanine in green tea enhances brain function, mood, and focus.
For those looking to incorporate these foods into their meals, Grace has developed a variety of brain-boosting recipes that are not only nutritious but also delicious. These recipes provide an easy way to enjoy the cognitive benefits of these ingredients while delighting your taste buds.
To read the complete article and see more delicious brain health recipes click here.
Embrace the flavors of fall with a nutritious and delicious recipe from Grace’s latest cookbook, Anti-Aging Dishes from Around the World. Plus, indulge guilt-free with a brain-boosting, gluten-free brownie recipe that’s as healthy as it is delicious. Enjoy these seasonal treats!
Indian Tomato Soup
Serves 2
This recipe takes tomato soup to the next level with some classic Indian curry spices and coconut milk. The best part? You can find most of these ingredients in your pantry.
Benefits
The turmeric, ginger, and coriander in most curry powders are anti-inflammatory. The antioxidant lycopene in tomatoes reduces inflammation, benefitting your brain, skin, and arteries.
Gluten-Free Vegan
Ingredients
2 Tbs. sesame oil
½ cup diced red onion
⅔ cup chopped carrots
1 can (13.5 oz.) full-fat coconut milk
1 can (28 oz.) crushed tomatoes with basil
1 Tbs. curry powder
Salt to taste
Freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat the oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for about 5 minutes or until translucent.
Add the carrots and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until they just begin to soften.
Stir in the coconut milk, tomatoes, curry powder, salt, and pepper and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for about 10 minutes or until the flavors have adequately melded and the carrots are soft.
To serve, season with freshly ground black pepper, if desired.
Almond Flour Brownies with Dark Chocolate Chips
This recipe is designed to be both satisfying and beneficial for brain health, incorporating ingredients that support cognitive function and overall wellness. Almonds contain healthy fats, and dark chocolate has flavonoids and antioxidants. The recipe is gluten-free if you make sure to use a GF vanilla extract. The rich, indulgent taste will not only boost your brain, it will blow your mind.
Ingredients
½ cup almond flour
¼ cup cocoa powder
½ tsp. baking powder
¼ tsp. salt
¼ cup coconut oil, melted
¼ cup liquid coffee, cooled
⅓ cup honey or maple syrup
2 eggs
1 tsp. vanilla extract (GF brand, if needed)
½ cup dark chocolate chips
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350 degrees F. and line an 8 x 8-inch baking dish with parchment paper.
- In a bowl, mix the almond flour, cocoa powder, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together the melted coconut oil, honey, eggs, coffee, and vanilla extract.
- Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring until well combined.
- Fold in the dark chocolate chips.
- Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish and spread it evenly.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.
- Allow the brownies to cool before cutting into squares.
About FoodTrients
FoodTrients® is a philosophy and a resource dedicated to the foods and rejuvenating nutrients that help us fight the diseases of aging and promote longevity. All of the recipes combine modern scientific research and medicinal herbs and ingredients from cultures around the world. They’re loaded with flavor and superfoods, which promote wellness, increase energy and vitality, improve skin, and help people look and feel younger.
