Fuel your brain with the right foods; image credit: iStock

Our brain is a finely-tuned machine that is responsible for keeping the heart, mouth, eyes, lungs and other vital organs functioning well. It is the mastermind behind almost everything- our thoughts, memory, focus, movements, breathing, heartbeat etc. How you think, what you see, and where you move, are all controlled by the brain. It is therefore essential to keep this part of the body working at its peak.  Our body requires food to stay fit- there are certain nutrients that are needed for the brain too, for repairing and building the brain cells and preventing any neurological disease. And certain foods can help make the brain stronger, sharper and smarter.

Once you know which foods to eat more of and which foods to limit, you'll be on your way toward a brain-healthy diet. Find out more about a few such food items to boost your brain.

These beverages literally wake us up in the morning, it would be a treat for all the tea and coffee lovers to know that the caffeine and antioxidants present in the beverages are good for the brain. Coffee specifically is also linked to increasing the brain's information processing capacity. Green tea is an excellent resource to improve alertness and enhance neurotransmitter activity too.

Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, kale, etc. are good sources of Vitamin K and beta carotene. Linked with improving memory, and slowing cognitive decline, they are a powerhouse of nutrients.  Some vegetables also contain anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects that shield the brain against damage.

Yes, eating dark chocolate is good for the brain. It contains cocoa which is packed with antioxidants called flavonoids. They are associated with the part of the brain concerning learning and memory. Munching on a bar of dark chocolate can also stimulate blood flow, and is considered to be a mood uplifter as well.

Eggs are meant to be a good source of Vitamin B6, Vitamin B12, etc. These vitamins are known for lowering the chances of Alzheimer's disease and dementia. They are rich in a nutrient called choline that promotes brain health and allows for smoother functioning and quicker development. This just made breakfast a lot tastier and more important!

Nuts and seeds- the plant-based sources of healthy fats and proteins, are brain-boosting foods that contain Omega 3 fatty acids and Vitamin E. Have a jar of almonds, sunflower seeds, or peanuts near your desk, and munch on them regularly. They contribute to increasing and improving the cognitive capability of the brain and sharpening memory over time. They are good for the heart and like it's said, a healthy heart resides in a healthy body.

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There are a lot of brain-friendly food items such as fatty fish, salmon or tuna, fruits like blueberries, oranges, kiwi, and whole grains, including brown rice, oatmeal etc. Some of these work on brain protection while some of them are responsible for memory and brain development. If you want a healthy functioning brain, improved alertness, and memory, include these in your diet, but also follow a good sleep routine, exercise regularly and most important of all keep yourself hydrated.

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