As the saying goes, you are what you eat. But if you forget who you are, then you might as well look at your current eating habits for some answers. The food we consume every day can impact us in subtle ways. Going beyond weight gain and the risk of heart disease and diabetes, we still need to understand that our dietary habits can have a lasting impact on our cognitive functions. Sure enough, we get nutrients from the food we eat and much of these nutrients are beneficial in terms of keeping the mind active and healthy.

If anything, our dietary habits can affect our ability to think and remember things. According to the Mental Health Foundation, eating healthy food can lead to better sense of wellbeing, especially for individuals who undergo a great deal of stress on a daily basis. Furthermore, the organization has also found correlations between physical health and the ability of the mind to function in certain situations.

So, to answer the question, yes, it is very much within the realm of possibility that the diets you adopt can help you increase your ability to think analytically and creatively.

That being said, let’s look at a few takeaways when you’re out shopping for some brain food.

1. It’s all about the legumes

When it comes down to legumes, your grandparents may know a lot more than you do. That being said, you can be sure when they say that nuts and beans are beneficial for your mind. And we’re not just talking about old wives’ tales here. There’s science to back up the claim that legumes pack the right stuff that promote healthy neuron functioning.

Sure enough, legumes contain a ton of B Vitamins which are all vital to keeping your brain as active as possible. A balanced diet of salad topped with your favorite beans and nuts is one way you can adopt healthy eating habits for better memory and sharper problem solving skills.

2. Know what you eat

Even if it comes from a brand you have trusted ever since, each food that you include in your grocery should be thoroughly scrutinized. Who knows what chemicals are contained in a bottle of apple juice, so be sure to check the ingredients for anything that could aid in deteriorating the brain.

One thing’s for sure, though, most companies nowadays use technologies like x-ray diffraction to make sure their products are cleared of any metals. You can also do your part by avoiding foods that are processed and pumped with preservatives that could cause your brain cells to wear out faster.

 3. Practice makes perfect

Adopting a “mind diet” doesn’t work only with food. It also has to be complemented by activities that aim to improve your cognitive skills. And while your munch on some brain food, you can also take part in activities and games that aim to improve your overall health and prevent diseases such as Alzheimer’s and Dementia from developing. You just need to do some mind drills every day to really stimulate your neurons.