I’m a neurologist and these are the best snacks for your brain

Taking care of your brain is essential to ensure optimal cognitive function throughout life. One of the most effective ways to achieve this is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Consuming brain-beneficial foods, such as fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, and oily fish, can provide needed omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamins. for the proper functioning of the nervous system. Proper nutrition helps prevent neurodegenerative diseases and supports memory, attention and mood.

In addition to a good diet, physical exercise plays a crucial role in brain health. Regular physical activity promotes blood circulation, which improves oxygen supply and nutrients for the brain. Studies have shown that exercise can also stimulate the production of new nerve cells, a process called neurogenesis. Whether through walking, running, cycling or even activities like yoga, incorporate an exercise routine in your daily life can contribute significantly to cognitive health.

Choosing the right snack

Snacks can play an important role in our overall health, because they are very practical and popular treats. While there are certainly a few unhealthy ones on the market, choosing the right ones can contribute to your overall well-being. Some can even improve memory, concentration and mood while even reducing the risk of cognitive decline with age.

Robert Love, a neuroscientist who has more than 2 million followers on TikTok, says the foods you eat “really count” for your brain. Love shared three must-have snacks that he recommends everyone eat to boost cognitive function and prevent decline. He says mushroom chips, macadamia nuts and blueberries are some of his favorite options. According to research, eating mushrooms three times a week or more “significantly reduces the risk of Alzheimer’s disease.

Stimulate your brain every day

Maintaining mental stimulation is also vital for brain health. Engaging in intellectually stimulating activities, such as reading, puzzles, board games, or even learning a new language or musical instrument, helps strengthen neural connections. Regular cognitive expenditure helps improve memory and prevent cognitive decline. Additionally, participating in social activities, whether through clubs, volunteer groups, or simply meeting friends, promotes enriching interactions that stimulate the mind.

Sleep plays a key role in brain health. Good quality sleep is essential for consolidating memory and cleansing toxins accumulated during the day. It is important to aim for between 7 and 9 hours of sleep per night and to develop habits promoting good sleepsuch as avoiding screens before bed, establishing a regular bedtime routine, and creating an environment conducive to rest. Insufficient sleep can not only impair cognitive performance, but also increase the risk of mental illness.

Stress has a negative impact

Finally, it is crucial to manage stress, which can have a detrimental impact on brain health. Stress management techniques such as meditation, deep breathing, yoga, or even aromatherapy can help reduce anxiety and improve focus.

Take time to relax, enjoy hobbies and to reconnect with yourself is essential for maintaining healthy mental balance. By integrating these practices into your daily life, you will help maintain not only your brain health, but also your overall well-being.

A graduate of CELSA, I have always been passionate about journalism since my early childhood. Originally from the South of France, I left Nice, my hometown, to come live in…