Kale, fish and walnuts: Foods that could help boost your brain health and reduce dementia

A balanced diet brimming with nutritious foods could be the key to enhancing brain health, according to recent studies.

Research has shed light on the significant impact of dietary choices on our brain function, revealing that a healthier diet can enhance blood flow throughout our body and brain. While certain foods have been identified as particularly beneficial, Alzheimer's Research UK emphasises that there is no single 'miracle' food that can ward off neurological disorders such as Dementia or Parkinson's.

Instead, the focus should be on maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables.

Incorporating more brain-friendly foods into your daily meals could help keep your brain in top shape, especially when combined with a healthy lifestyle. These can range from readily available vegetables to everyday beverages that you might already be enjoying.

For a comprehensive list of brain-boosting foods and drinks, read on...

Walnuts

If you're looking to bolster your brain health, walnuts are an excellent choice. They are notably high in the omega-3 fatty acid alpha-linolenic acid.

Omega-3 fatty acids have also been shown to help lower blood pressure and keep arteries clear, which can promote both brain and heart health. even suggested that walnuts can help reduce oxidative damage in the body and may also help delay the onset or slow the progression of Alzheimers, Parkinson's disease, and stroke.

Leafy greens

Leafy greens like kale, spinach, and broccoli are packed with vitamin K, folate, and beta carotene, all of which have been linked to brain health. even found that just one serving a day could significantly slow cognitive decline associated with ageing.

In fact, these green leafy vegetables were found to be particularly beneficial for brain health compared to other veggies.

Salmon and other fatty fish

Salmon and other fatty fish such as sardines are also great for your brain, thanks to their high omega-3 fatty acid content. These fish are a staple in the Mediterranean diet, which Alzheimer's UK has said could help lower dementia risk.

Tea and coffee

Ongoing research has shown promising links between caffeine intake and improved brain health.

One study found that people who drank two to three cups of tea and coffee a day had a lower risk of stroke and dementia. However, experts warn that more research is needed to strengthen this link.

For instance, the Alzheimer's Society points out that while some research suggests a cuppa could potentially lower dementia risk, other studies have found it to have minimal or no impact.