6 nutritionist-approved beverages to boost memory and brain performance
You are a drink away from boosting your memory and the performance of your brain! Yes, that's right. Imagine having a beverage that is not only a treat for you, but also for your brain! Maintaining optimal brain health is crucial, and Dr.
Terry Shintani, a Harvard-trained nutritionist, has suggested certain beverages that can enhance memory and cognitive performance. These beverages, backed by science, are good for your brain. Take a look.
A cup of green tea keeps the doctor away! Green tea is rich in catechins, potent antioxidants that protect brain cells from oxidative stress. L-theanine, an amino acid in green tea, promotes relaxation and enhances focus. A 2006
study
found that green tea consumption improves cognitive function and reduces the risk of dementia.
Sip unsweetened green tea daily for a brain-boosting ritual.
Coffee has caffeine, a psycho-stimulant which has been shown to have beneficial effects on the brain. The chlorogenic acid in coffee also offers neuroprotective benefits.
Research
indicates that two to three cups of coffee a day are linked to a 30% lower risk of stroke and dementia. 'Coffee is associated with 30% less Alzheimer's disease,' the nutritionist adds.
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Beetroot juice is high in nitrates, which increase nitric oxide levels and improve blood flow to the brain. A 2017
study
in The Journals of Gerontology showed that beet juice enhances cognitive performance in older adults by improving cerebral blood flow. Drinking 8–12 ounces of pure beet juice a few times weekly can help you reap these benefits; however, consult a doctor if you have kidney issues or any underlying diseases.
Turmeric tea, paired with black pepper, contains curcumin, a compound with powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. Studies suggest that curcumin may improve memory in adults with mild cognitive impairment.
Dr. Terry Shintani stresses that Kombucha, which is a probiotic drink, is linked to brain function via the gut-brain axis. The probiotics in this fermented drink may enhance neurotransmitter production and improve mood and cognition.
Choose low-sugar kombucha if you enjoy it.
Sipping some hibiscus tea is linked with improved brain function. Hibiscus contains gossypetin, a flavonoid that stimulates microglia to clear beta-amyloid plaques, a hallmark of Alzheimer's. Studies have found that hibiscus extract supports memory preservation. Enjoy a cup of unsweetened hibiscus once in a while for brain-protective benefits.
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Always consult a healthcare provider before making significant dietary changes, especially if you have underlying health conditions.
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