31 Unconventional Foods to Boost Your Brainpower

2. Sardines: Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Brain Function

Fatty fish like salmon, mackerel, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for maintaining brain health. These healthy fats are crucial for building brain and nerve cells, and they play a vital role in learning and memory. Omega-3s have been linked to a reduction in mental decline and may help ward off Alzheimer's disease. The DHA and EPA, two types of omega-3s found in fish, are integral to brain structure and function. Regular consumption of fatty fish has been associated with increased gray matter in the brain, which is responsible for processing information, memory, and emotions. For those who do not consume fish, omega-3 supplements or plant-based sources like flaxseeds and walnuts are excellent alternatives.