Memory is the mental activity of recalling information that you have learned or experienced. Short-term memory occurs when your mind stores information for a few seconds or minutes, while long-term memory occurs when your mind makes an effort to retain certain information for a prolonged amount of time. The cause of memory loss varies, but it may be due to advanced age, damage, illness, disease or injury. A healthy diet can keep your brain healthy and improve your memory.
Berries
If you want to improve your memory, try snacking on berries. Berries are rich in vitamins C and E, beta carotene and antioxidants that can improve your memory, according to HelpGuide. Antioxidants work to protect your healthy cells from damage, strengthen your immune system and increase the amount of oxygen your brain and body receives. Foods that contain the most antioxidants are blueberries and other berries, sweet potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, broccoli, nuts, seeds, citrus fruits and liver.
Spinach
Adding dark-green, leafy vegetables such as spinach to your daily diet may help you sharpen your memory, according to HelpGuide. Spinach contains vitamin B-6, B-12 and folic acid, which help protect the nerves in your brain from disease and deterioration. According to the United States Department of Agriculture, B vitamins can break down homocysteine, an amino acid that can be toxic to nerve cells and increases your risk of stroke and memory loss. Other food sources that contain B vitamins include kale, chard, mustard greens, broccoli, asparagus, strawberries, melons, black beans, citrus fruits and soybeans.
Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, herring, mackerel and halibut are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which may be beneficial for memory loss. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, adding fatty fish into your daily diet may improve your memory and keep your brain functioning at an optimal level. If you do not like fish, other food sources that contain omega-3 fatty acids include flaxseed, flaxseed oil, pumpkin seeds, walnuts and walnut oil.
Chocolate
Chocolate contains caffeine and flavonols, which are chemicals that improve your alertness by increasing blood flow to your brain. Chocolate, a natural stimulant, is beneficial for memory because it may improve your focus, concentration and mood.
