Did you know that as a normal process of aging, cognitive impairment doubles in frequency every five years beginning at age 65? Eating healthy can actually help resist the effects of cognitive impairment. Here are some foods that will help with brain function.

A.      Avocados – All organs, including the brain, depend on blood flow for proper function. A diet including avocados, which are high in healthy fats, reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and lowers bad cholesterol, which helps improve that all-important blood flow to the brain.¹ Additionally, oleic acid, one of the main fatty acids found in avocados, is associated with reduced cholesterol levels in the brain. ²

B.      Blueberries – Blueberries contain a type of antioxidant known as flavonoids. Flavonoids have been shown to help improve memory and enhance motor skills.³ Research has also shown that blueberries may help prevent degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and dementia.⁴

C.      Chocolate –Also rich in flavonoids, chocolate can help increase blood flow to the brain. Cocoa flavonoids have also been linked with improvements in cognitive performance. Make sure to take a look at the percentage of cacao. The more cacao (the darker) the better. ⁵

D.      Dark Green Leafy Vegetables. These vegetables contain B vitamins which help break down an amino acid in the blood called homocysteine. Elevated homocysteine levels are associated with dementia and Alzheimer’s. Try incorporating kale, chard, or spinach into your diet to increase B vitamins.^6-7

E.       Eggs. Rich in choline, eggs help aid brain function in adults. Choline is a precursor for an important neurotransmitter in the brain that plays a role in memory and muscle control. Choline also helps concentration and in recalling information.^8-9

Incorporate these foods into your diet and enjoy the benefits of better brain function. Need an extra boost? Try Nu Skin’s BioGinkgo – formulated to deliver an extra strength preparation of ginkgo biloba leaf extract for the maintenance of healthy cognitive performance and circulatory health.* Another option is Nu Skin’s Marine Omega, which provides important omega-3 fatty acids to support brain function and emotional wellness.*

1 http://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/slideshow-brain-foods-that-help-you-concentrate

2 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/17568062

3 http://www.inc.com/barbara-mendez/7-foods-that-boost-your-brainpower.html

4 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/15279493/

5 http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19942640

6 http://news.menshealth.com/the-new-brain-vitamin/2013/05/24/

7 http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/vitamins/vitaminB12/

8 http://www.livestrong.com/article/440659-is-egg-a-brain-food/

9 http://lpi.oregonstate.edu/infocenter/othernuts/choline/

*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.