Introduction
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it’s especially important for those suffering from memory loss. Eating the right foods can help improve memory and cognitive function, while eating the wrong foods can have the opposite effect. Dietitians have identified five of the best breakfast foods for memory loss, and we’re here to share them with you. From oatmeal to eggs, these breakfast foods are packed with essential vitamins and minerals that can help improve your memory and cognitive function. So, if you’re looking for a way to improve your memory, start your day off right with these five breakfast foods.
5 Best Breakfast Foods for Memory Loss, Say Dietitians — Eat This Not That
Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, and it’s especially important for those with memory loss. Eating the right foods can help improve memory and cognitive function, and dietitians have identified the five best breakfast foods for memory loss.
1. Oatmeal
Oatmeal is a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide the brain with energy. It also contains fiber, which helps slow the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream, preventing spikes in blood sugar levels that can lead to memory loss. Oatmeal is also a good source of B vitamins, which are essential for healthy brain function.
2. Eggs
Eggs are a great source of protein, which helps the brain stay alert and focused. They also contain choline, an essential nutrient for memory and cognitive function. Eggs are also a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain health.
3. Berries
Berries are packed with antioxidants, which help protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals. They also contain flavonoids, which can help improve memory and cognitive function. Berries are also a good source of fiber, which helps keep blood sugar levels stable.
4. Nuts and Seeds
Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats, which are essential for brain health. They also contain omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve memory and cognitive function. Nuts and seeds are also a good source of vitamin E, which helps protect the brain from damage.
5. Whole Grains
Whole grains are a great source of complex carbohydrates, which provide the brain with energy. They also contain B vitamins, which are essential for healthy brain function. Whole grains are also a good source of fiber, which helps keep blood sugar levels stable.
Eating a healthy breakfast is essential for those with memory loss. Incorporating these five foods into your breakfast routine can help improve memory and cognitive function. Talk to your dietitian for more information about the best breakfast foods for memory loss.
Brain food takes on a whole new meaning when you learn that what you eat has a significant impact on the health of your brain. Harvard Health points out that your brain is always “on,” which means that it needs a lot of fuel. It gets much of its fuel from the food you eat, which is why it’s important to eat the right food when you’re wanting to prevent memory loss and improve cognitive function.
“There’s actually a lot of food you can eat throughout the day to feed your brain and optimize your cognitive performance, and the key is to make sure you get these nutrients consistently,” says David Brendan, RDN, ISSA/IFPA certified fitness trainer, marketing director, and chief designer of Start Rowing.
We wanted to look further into specific foods that are healthy for your brain, so we talked with some dietitians about the best breakfast foods for memory loss to start your day off right.
After, for more healthy aging tips, check out The Best Food for Your Brain After 50.
Oats can provide numerous health benefits like lowering inflammation, helping to manage glucose levels, and improving gut health. And their high fiber content can also help contribute to better brain health.
In fact, one recent study from the University of Tsukuba found that a diet higher in fiber was associated with a reduced risk of dementia, which is promising for further research around this topic.
Brendan suggests adding toppings like flaxseeds to your oats for an even greater brain boost because “flaxseeds are an excellent source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), a healthy fat that boosts cerebral cortex function.”
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According to Brendan, beets are an excellent choice when you’re trying to improve your brain health. If you don’t love the taste, throw them into a smoothie with fruit and yogurt to hide the flavor.
“The natural nitrates in beets can increase blood flow to your brain, which improves mental performance,” says Brendan. “In a blender, combine 1/2 cup of orange juice, 1 cup of frozen berries (strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries), 1/2 cup of diced beets (raw or roasted), 1 tablespoon of granola, 2 to 3 dates, 1/4 cup of coconut water or plain low-fat yogurt, and 3 ice cubes. Blend for one minute.”
Whether you add them to your oatmeal, Greek yogurt bowl, or eat them plain, blueberries are a helpful breakfast choice for those trying to care for their brain.
“Research supports the function of blueberries as a protector against Alzheimer’s, and the beneficial effects of blueberries are likely due to their flavonoids, which have been shown to improve animal brain cognition,” says Morgyn Clair, MS, RDN, author at Fit Healthy Momma.
Clair also suggests that along with blueberries, you may want to consider adding walnuts to your breakfast routine.
“The omega 3 fatty acids in nuts help with cell membrane function and communication between cells, so try eating them in a yogurt parfait or as a side item,” says Clair.
Walnuts also contain protein, vitamin E, and helpful antioxidants that have been known to help lower inflammation and slow the aging process, making them an excellent choice for better overall health and aging.
And lastly, this popular breakfast staple is not only delicious and versatile, but can also help boost your brain health as well.
“In addition to being packed with protein, which can keep blood sugar levels stable throughout the day, egg yolks (where all the cholesterol is found) contain an array of nutrients like choline (critical for brain health) and omega-3 fatty acids (awesome anti-inflammatory),” says Rachel Fine, RD, and owner of To The Pointe Nutrition. “Preliminary research does associate improved cognitive performance with sufficient intake of choline.”