Ten Best Brain Foods For Brain Power

Healthy foods that assist the brain to function are never to be left out of your diet. Brain Foods are those foods that contain nutrients that help the brain to function at it's optimal level and for brain power. Maybe the most important nutrient contained in these foods are Omega 3 fatty acids. Here in this article you will learn which foods are brain boosters that helps the brain develop and perform optimally.

Omega 3 fatty acids, essential fatty acids or polyunsaturated fatty acids are found in several foods and can only be obtained by including them in your diet. Polyunsaturated fatty acids are essential brain foods that acts like vitamins for the brain and must be consumed on a regular basis. Some foods that include Omega 3 are Tuna, Salmon, Sardines, Flax-seed, Soybeans, Halibut and some seaweeds and algae. Not only do these essential fatty acids play an important role in brain function but also in growth and development. According to the American Heart Association, we should includes foods high in Omega 3 at least two to three times per week to help reduce the risk of heart disease. Studies have also shown that this nutrient also help fight cancer and arthritis.

Omega 3 fatty acids are found in very high quantities in the brain and are very important for the overall brain health including cognition, memory and behavior. It is believed that babies who do not get adequate amounts of essential fatty acids from their mothers during pregnancy are at risk for the development of nerves and vision problems. Deficiency includes memory problems, dry skin, depression and mood swings, fatigue and circulatory problems.

There are foods available that are essential for brain development and function and must be included in your diet on a regular basis. Whether you are vegan, vegetarian, ovo-vegetarian, locto-ovo, whatever your lifestyle you can incorporate foods that include Omega 3 fatty acids.

1. Flax seed: At the top of this brain food list is a food that is still in debate as to whether or not it's a grain. Not only is it high in Omega 3 fatty acids but also includes magnesium, manganese and vitamin B. Flax seeds carry only 95 calories per serving and a whopping 146% of the daily requirement of essential fatty acids. If you have never had this super food in your diet, start including it now as flax seed is very essential for brain function.

2. Walnuts: These delicious nuts are nutritious as well and carry 163 calories per serving and 94% of the daily value of Omega 3. Manganese, copper and trytophan are some of the other nutrients found in walnuts and must be included in your diet for its health benefits.

3. Salmon: Tasty and nutritious, salmon provides around 87% of the daily requirement for omega 3 while its calorie count stands at 262 per serving. Include this brain food in your diet and guarantee optimal brain function.

4. Sardines: Another brain food that is consumed on a regular basis. While providing about 56% of the essential fatty acids requirement it carries a caloric count of 191 per serving.

5. Soybeans: This other super brain food might come as a surprise to many but soybeans is also rich in this very vital nutrient and must be considered for including in your diet. A caloric count of 298 per serving while daily requirement of Omega 3 stand at 44%.

6. Halibut: This is another fish that many people love. It's calorie count stands at only 159 per serving and Omega 3 daily requirement is 28%.

7. Shrimp: Yes shrimp is also a brain food and is enjoyed by many people worldwide, in many cuisines. Only 112 calories and 18% Omega 3 daily requirement per serving.

8. Raw Tofu: Contrary to popular belief raw tofu can be very tasty and it is certainly nutrient rich with a calorie count at a very low 86 and 18% Omega 3 daily requirement per serving.

9. Snapper: A very popular fish that we all know and love. I bet you didn't know of its importance in your brain function. One serving offers only 145 calories and 16% of the daily requirement for essential fatty acids.

10. Scallops: Last but certainly not least the scallop presents itself to you. In recent years the scallop has become more popular around the world with a caloric count of 152 while its Omega 3 requirement stands at 15%.

If you want to improve cognition, memory and proper brain function you must consider these ten brain foods to include in your diet. No store bought supplements required with your regular dose of essential fatty acids.