How to Improve Your Memory Power by Eating the Right Foods

Qasim Adam
14 min readDec 20, 2021
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A lot of people say that memory power is not something you can improve. They might be right, but what if they’re wrong? What if eating the right foods could help your brain function better and remember more information?

A recent study found that certain types of food can increase cognitive performance by up to 20%. So, what are these magical foods? Find out in this post!

So, as it turns out, several foods have been proven to boost your memory power. The key is finding the ones that work for you. Whether you’re looking for something sweet or salty, here’s a list of 15 healthy foods with surprising benefits for your brain:

1) Nuts

Nuts contain lots of healthy fats. If you’re looking to improve your memory power, it’s time to start taking care of your body. What you eat can have a big impact on how well you remember things and learn new skills. Eating the right foods is the first step towards better brain function.

If you’ve been experiencing trouble remembering things or are struggling with learning new skills, it may be because what you are eating isn’t providing your body with all the nutrients it needs for optimal brain function.

2) Salmon

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One food that can particularly benefit your memory and cognitive function is salmon. This pink fish is rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain health. A study published in the journal Neurology found that eating salmon regularly improved mental function in elderly participants.

So, if you’re looking for brain-boosting food, salmon should be at the top of your list! You can either eat it cooked or raw, as long as you make sure to get your daily dose of omega-3 fatty acids.

3) Eggs

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Eggs are another excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. These tiny wonders also contain choline, which plays an important role in brain health by preventing Alzheimer’s disease and dementia. Eating eggs can even help improve your memory power! While this may be because eggs make you feel fuller longer, preventing you from snacking on unhealthy foods, it’s still a good idea to add eggs to your diet if you’re looking to improve your memory.

4) Blueberries

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Blueberries are not only incredibly delicious but they’re also packed with antioxidants, which help protect the brain from damage. These little berries are also known to improve cognitive function, memory, and focus. So, if you’re looking for a tasty snack that can also improve your memory power, blueberries are a great option.

Blueberries offer a plethora of health advantages, some of which are brain-specific. Blueberries and other brightly colored fruits are high in anthocyanins, a class of plant chemicals with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties.

5) Avocados

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Another food that’s great for your brain is avocado. This creamy fruit is a good source of healthy fats, which are important for brain health. Studies have shown that people who eat avocados regularly have better cognitive function and memory than those who don’t.

6) Dark Chocolate

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If you’re looking for something sweet to snack on, then dark chocolate is a great option. Dark chocolate is high in antioxidants, which protect the brain from damage and help improve cognitive function.

The beneficial components in dark chocolate and cocoa powder include flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants.

A chocolate bar with 70% or more cocoa is called dark chocolate. These advantages aren’t evident in normal milk chocolate, which contains 10–50% cocoa. Research has shown that eating dark chocolate regularly can improve your memory power and other areas of cognitive function by up to 20%.

7) Broccoli

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Broccoli is another brain-boosting food that’s packed with healthy nutrients. This cruciferous vegetable contains lots of vitamin K, which is great for cognitive function. It also contains sulforaphane, an antioxidant that boosts memory and concentration by reducing the presence of beta-amyloid plaques in the brain. So, by adding broccoli into your diet, you can not only improve your memory but also boost cognitive function as a whole.

8) Turmeric

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Another food that can help protect the brain from damage and boost overall cognitive function is turmeric. Turmeric has anti-inflammatory properties. This popular spice contains curcumin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties that can protect against age-related decline in brain function.

Turmeric’s active component, curcumin, has been found to cross the blood-brain barrier, allowing it to enter the brain and benefit neurons.

So, if you’re looking to improve your memory power and prevent Alzheimer’s disease, then it’s a good idea to add turmeric into your diet.

9) Pomegranates

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Another delicious fruit is the pomegranate. Pomegranate juice is great for improving blood flow to the brain. Not only is this red fruit delicious but it’s also full of antioxidants, which protect the brain from damage and improve memory.

One study published in the journal Nutrition found that drinking pomegranate juice regularly improved blood flow to the brain and cognitive function by up to 34%.

10) Coffee

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Coffee is a great way to improve your cognitive function. This popular drink contains caffeine, which has been shown to improve mental performance, memory, and focus. One study published in the journal

Neuropsychopharmacology found that caffeine improved cognitive function by up to 65%. So, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to increase your memory power, it’s a good idea to add caffeine into your daily diet.

Coffee contains a lot of caffeine, which has several benefits for the brain, including:

11. Vitamin B12.

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Vitamin B12 is a water-soluble vitamin that is important for the formation of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and maintaining the health of the nervous system. A lack of vitamin B12 can lead to anemia, impaired cognitive function and mood changes. Good sources of vitamin B12 include meat, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy products, and fortified breakfast cereals.

12. Vitamin B6

These include foods such as bananas, potatoes, bell peppers, spinach/collards greens, cheery juice or prunes. The B vitamin family helps maintain healthy nerve cells by boosting the growth of red blood cells and breaking down amino acids for neurotransmitter synthesis. Imbalanced levels of any B vitamins can lead to problems with cognitive performance, mood and energy levels.

13. Oatmeal

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Oatmeal can help improve cognitive function, memory, and mood. A lack of oleic acid in the diet has been linked to lower levels of omega-3 fatty acids and reduced cardiovascular health. Oleic acid is a monounsaturated fatty acid that increases serotonin production in the brain, which can boost mood and mental performance.

14. Water or green tea

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Stick to drinking water instead of drinking fattening drinks. These drinks are soda or juice. Apart from water, green tea is an excellent option. Some studies have also shown that green tea can improve memory retention without increasing heart rate, blood pressure, or the risk for cardiovascular disease. Green tea is packed with antioxidants and contains compounds that stimulate the brain and increase mental sharpness.

15. Apples

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Eating an apple a day can help protect your brain from oxidative stress and boost memory function. Apples contain flavonoids, which reduce the risk of Alzheimer’s disease by blocking the formation of proteins that lead to plaque accumulation in the brain. Flavonoids also improve memory function and increase blood flow to the brain, which improves cognitive function.

Memory Enhancing Foods FAQs

What foods can help me remember things better?

Some foods may make you smarter and improve your memory. Foods like walnuts and salmon (Omega-3) or avocados and kale (Folate) might make a difference in how well you recall things like names, faces, facts, and numbers.

Walnuts are good for the brain because they contain Omega-3 which is needed for nerve health and cognition. They also have vitamin E that helps to boost memory by slowing down the oxidative process that can destroy mental function. And they’re full of folate which is necessary for brain development and repair.

Kale is a leafy green vegetable high in Folate, which is an important nutrient needed for proper brain function and development. It also has anti-inflammatory properties that may help to prevent Alzheimer’s disease.

Salmon is rich in Omega-3, which studies have shown can reduce inflammation throughout the body and the brain. Omega-3 fat is needed for good brain health, and it can boost memory by improving blood flow to your head. It can also protect against Alzheimer’s and other degenerative diseases of the brain.

Avocados are full of Folate and vitamin E (an antioxidant), both of which may boost your memory by slowing down oxidative damage to your mental function. Avocados are also high in potassium, a nutrient that plays an important role in overall brain health as it helps to regulate the brain’s use of oxygen.

Kiwis are a good source of potassium and vitamin E, both of which may boost your memory by helping to slow down oxidative damage to your mental function. Kiwis also contain serotonin, a neurotransmitter that boosts mood and alertness while improving sleep quality — all important factors that can impact memory.

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What if I don’t like any of these foods?

If you don’t like any of the memory-enhancing foods listed here, that’s okay! There are plenty of other options to choose from. Just make sure to include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your diet, as well as foods rich in Omega-3 and Folate.

What can I drink to improve my memory?

Water is the best drink for improving your memory. Not only does it help keep you hydrated, but it also flushes out toxins that can interfere with cognitive function. Coffee and tea are also good options, as they contain antioxidants that can help protect your brain from damage. However, be sure to limit your intake of caffeine, as too much can actually have negative effects on your memory.

Are there any supplements I can take?

There are a number of supplements that can help improve your memory, including Omega-3 fatty acids, B-complex vitamins, and Ginkgo biloba. However, it’s important to consult with your doctor before taking any supplements, as some can have negative side effects if you’re taking medication or suffer from health conditions.

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What should I drink while studying?

If you’re hitting the books, stick to water while studying. Not only is it a great way to stay hydrated while doing mental acrobatics, but it also helps flush out toxins that can interfere with memory. Coffee and tea are other options to consider if you need a pick-me-up during your study session, as both contain antioxidants that can protect your brain from damage. Just make sure to limit your caffeine intake, as consuming too much can actually hinder memory recall rather than improve it.

Is banana good for the brain?

Yes, bananas are great for the brain as they contain potassium which is an important nutrient needed for good brain function and development. It also contains folate which is helpful for increasing memory and preventing cognitive disorders like dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Are oranges good for you?

Oranges are a great source of vitamin C, but they can do more for your brain than just keep you healthy during cold and flu season. Vitamin C is an important antioxidant that can help protect your brain from damage, which can ultimately lead to improved memory function.

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What is the best food for the brain?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as everyone’s dietary needs vary depending on a number of factors. Some of the best brain foods include salmon, avocados, and kiwis. Salmon is full of Omega-3 fats which have been shown to boost memory by reducing inflammation throughout your body and in your brain.

Avocados are loaded with Folate as well as vitamin E (an antioxidant), both of which are beneficial for memory health. Kiwis are a good source of both potassium and vitamin E, both of which have been shown to help improve memory by slowing down oxidative damage to your mental function.

So, the next time you’re grocery shopping, be sure to add some of these foods to your cart.

Is egg good for the brain?

Yes, eggs are a great source of choline, an essential nutrient that is important for cognitive function and memory. Choline helps keep your brain functioning optimally by promoting the growth and development of new neurons. It’s also been shown to reduce inflammation in the brain, which can help protect it from damage.

Is milk good for the brain?

Yes, milk is a great way to give your brain the nutrients it needs to improve memory and function optimally. Some of the best nutrients within milk include calcium and Vitamin D which can help improve your memory by reducing stress and anxiety. Milk also contains lactic acid, which has been shown to stimulate new neurons in the hippocampus (the part of your brain responsible for memory and learning).

Is yogurt good for the brain?

Yes, yogurt is a great source of probiotics (and other beneficial bacteria) that can help balance your gut health which in turn has been shown to improve memory and cognition. Some studies have even linked higher levels of beneficial bacteria within the gut to increased BDNF (a protein that is essential for healthy brain function). So, next time you’re looking for a snack, reach for some yogurt instead of a candy bar.

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Are there any foods that are bad for the brain?

Yes, there are some foods that can be harmful to your brain health. Foods high in saturated fat have been shown to reduce memory function by clogging up blood vessels that are needed for healthy brain activity. Foods high in sugar have also been shown to negatively impact memory function, as the neurons within the hippocampus require a lot of energy.

Is water good for the brain?

Yes, staying hydrated is important for many things concerning overall health, and brain health is no exception. When you’re dehydrated, your body starts to ration the water it has, sending it to essential organs like your heart and brain. This can lead to a decline in cognitive function and an increase in feelings of fatigue and stress. So, make sure to drink plenty of water every day (especially if you’re exercising!) to keep your memory and mental function as sharp as possible.

Are tomatoes good for the brain?

Yes, tomatoes are a great source of vitamin C which can help promote healthy blood flow within the brain by protecting against oxidation (a process that damages cells and also reduces the amount of oxygen available to your neurons). This reduced oxidative damage can help improve memory and cognitive function. Tomatoes are also a great source of lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown to reduce the risk of age-related memory decline.

What are the top 5 brain foods?

Salmon, avocados, kiwis, eggs and milk.

What are the 3 foods that fight memory loss?

Salmon, avocados and eggs.

Is almond good for the brain?

Yes, almonds are a great source of magnesium which can help promote healthy cognitive function by encouraging blood flow within the brain. This increased blood flow can pick up excess glutamate and prevent it from sticking to neurons that it shouldn’t be stuck to (which is a major cause of neuronal damage due to excitotoxicity).

Which food makes you intelligent?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the foods that are best for your brain may vary depending on your individual dietary needs. However, some of the best foods for boosting intelligence are salmon, avocados, eggs and yogurt. So, next time you’re looking for a way to give your brain a boost, try eating one of these nutrient-rich foods.

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Does honey improve memory?

Honey has been linked to improved cognitive function and memory, as well as lower levels of stress and anxiety. This is largely due to the antioxidant capacity of honey. Some studies have even suggested that it may be able to improve brain plasticity in older adults.

How can I increase my IQ level?

You can’t really increase your IQ level, but you can improve your cognitive ability in many ways. Eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables, exercising regularly and getting plenty of sleep are all great ways to boost mental function.

What is the best recipe for brain health?

There isn’t just one best recipe for brain health, as different foods can provide different benefits for your brain. However, some good recipes to try include salmon with avocado salsa, kale and egg salad or yogurt parfait. These recipes are all packed with nutrients that are essential for brain health, such as omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, vitamins and minerals.

Conclusion

These 15 foods have been shown to promote brain health and can be enjoyed as a part of a healthy diet. But not all brains are the same! What’s important for you may not work for your friend with different cognitive abilities or nutritional needs.

Don’t forget that what we eat has an impact on how our brains function which means it’s up to us to make sure we’re eating right-for ourselves and those around us.

Have you had success with any of these? Share your experience by commenting below.

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Qasim Adam

Blogger, author, and freelancer. Top writer on Medium in Love, Life Lessons, Psychology, Parenting, and Relationships.