The Best Fruit for Brain Health, According to Neurologists
Decades of research show that a healthy diet can boost brain health and lower dementia risk. Eating more fruits, veggies, whole grains, and fish is great for your brain, while ultra-processed foods are bad news.
If you’re looking to improve your brain health, fruit is an easy and sweet option. It requires no prep and helps curb sugar cravings. But which fruit is best? Neurologists and neurosurgeons share their top picks.
Why Fruit is Good for Your Brain
Fruits are packed with antioxidants, which reduce oxidative stress on brain cells, explains neurosurgeon Dr. Betsy Grunch. Neurologist Dr. Mill Etienne adds that fruits help prevent brain cell damage and support graceful aging.
Fruits also provide carbohydrates, the brain’s primary fuel source, and contain nutrients like vitamin C and vitamin K, which improve brain function and concentration.
Top Fruits for Brain Health
Dr. Etienne’s favorites are dark berries like blueberries and grapes. These fruits are high in antioxidants that protect the brain. Research shows blueberries can reduce brain inflammation and age-related cognitive decline, while grapes enhance cognition.
Both Dr. Grunch and Dr. Etienne also love bananas for their brain and gut health benefits. Pineapple, rich in tryptophan, supports mental health by boosting serotonin levels, a chemical linked to mood regulation.
Citrus fruits like oranges are high in vitamin C, which aids memory. Avocados, another brain-boosting fruit, contain healthy fats crucial for brain function and protection.
Key Takeaway
Eating a variety of fruits is beneficial for your brain. Dr. Etienne recommends eating whole fruits instead of juice to retain fiber and avoid added sugars. He especially advises this for people with brain conditions like dementia or traumatic brain injuries.
Incorporating fruit into your daily diet is a simple and tasty way to support brain health. It’s a no-brainer!
For more detailed guidance, refer to Parade’s full article.
Sources:
- Dr. Mill Etienne, MD, MPH, FAAN, FAES, neurologist and Associate Professor of Neurology at New York Medical College
- Dr. Betsy Grunch, MD, FAANS, FACS, FCNS, neurosurgeon specializing in neurotrauma and minimally invasive spine techniques based in Georgia
Credit : Parade
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