Brain Awareness Week: 5 Foods For Healthy Brain Function

It's a well-known fact that what you eat has an influence on your body, but did you know it can directly impact your brain function?

In recognition of Brain Awareness Week, USANA Health Sciences, a global leader in health and nutrition, provides you a list of powerful, everyday superfoods and nutrients that help support brain function. You can also tune into The Dr. Oz Show on Wednesday, March 15, to discover other benefits of omega-3s.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

These little babies are critical for maintaining the health of your cells by providing the lipids needed for healthy cellular membranes. Your cells are the foundation of every part of your body, so omega-3s are necessary for optimal health on the most basic level.

Good sources of omega-3s include fatty fish like salmon and tuna, flaxseed oil, chia seeds and fish oil supplements.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that protects cells from oxidative damage. In turn, this antioxidant process helps maintain healthy cognitive function.

Good sources of vitamin E include raw spinach, almonds, and sunflower seeds.

Turmeric

Curcumin is a compound found in the spice, turmeric, and is also the reason for turmeric's vibrant color. But what makes this chemical so useful is its nutritional and medicinal capabilities. With powerful health benefits, curcumin supports the protection of healthy cells and maintaining a healthy brain.

Wondering how to add turmeric to your diet? Try adding it to soups, rice or even toss it with veggies.

Coconut Oil

Our brains need fuel to function properly, and coconut oil helps provide the good fats (medium-chain triglycerides) to help the brain function properly.

Eat more coconut oil by cooking with it, eating it by the spoonful, or adding it to your daily smoothie.

Dark Chocolate or Red Wine

Dark chocolate and red wine are rich in flavonoids which promote normal/healthy blood vessel function and healthy blood flow to the brain. They also aid in proper cognitive function and memory.

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About USANA: Founded in 1992, USANA Health Sciences (NYSE: USNA) is a U.S.-based nutritional company that manufactures high-quality supplements, personal care and healthy food products in its FDA-registered facility in Salt Lake City. Learn more about USANA by visiting our web site http://www.usana.com, AsktheScientists, or the official USANA blog http://whatsupusana.com. These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.