Foods That Feed The Brain & Give Energy

Your brain is one of the most important parts of your body. Taking proper care of your brain will help your body function normally and may prevent disease and illness as well. Certain foods can be eaten to feed your brain as well as provide the energy you need to remain healthy and active. Michelle Schoffro Cook, author of "The Brain Wash," suggests that nutritious foods can improve your health, including the ability that your brain has to function properly.

Yogurt

Yogurt contains good bacteria that provide a host of advantages to your brain and your energy level. The good bacteria in yogurt act as an antioxidant to fight free radical damage and help prevent diseases that impact the health of your brain, says Cook. The good bacteria also reduce a substance called cytokines, which degrade the health of your immune system. A high number of cytokines in your brain may lead to depression and anxiety, two disorders that sap your energy and prevent your brain from working properly. Eating yogurt on a regular basis can reduce cytokines and improve the function of your brain. Yogurt is also a good source of protein, which will increase your energy.

Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables contain a wide range of antioxidants that can protect your brain from disease as well as give you energy, says Mark Hyman, author of "The UltraMind Solution: Fix Your Broken Brain by Healing Your Body First." A diet high in different kinds of fruits and vegetables is related to a reduced incidence of many health conditions, including depression, dementia and other age-related illnesses. Fruits and vegetables also prevent insulin from building up in your blood, which can cause different health conditions as well. Adding produce high in fiber can also increase your energy level. Eat carrots, berries, pears, broccoli and apples to obtain brain power and energy.

Nuts and Seeds

Over half of your brain is composed of fat, so you need to consume healthy sources of fat to feed your brain and give you energy, reports Cook. Unsaturated fats that contain omega-6 fatty acids, such as those in nuts and seeds, will feed your brain and help prevent illness and disease. Fats are also important for enabling your brain to pass messages to the rest of your body. Nuts and seeds also supply some omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health as well. Adding a handful of different nuts and seeds each day can help you get these benefits. Include walnuts, pistachios, pecans, cashews, sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds to vary the nutrients you consume.