The ‘Brain Foods’ You Should Be Eating Over 40 For Better Focus, Mood And Sleep

Fatty fish like salmon and mackerel

Fish is one of the healthiest foods around. Not only does fatty fish, such as salmon and mackerel, pack in healthy fats that can help keep your body in great shape, but it can also do wonders for your focus and mood.

"Fatty fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids to support brain health and reduce inflammation," Gervacio explains. "This can help with mood and focus." She recommends working fatty fish into 2-3 meals per week. "Best to have them grilled or baked and eaten with salads and other high-fiber foods," she says.

It's an especially good idea to replace red meat with fish, as red meat can be inflammatory and take a toll on both your body and brain.

Nuts and seeds

Whether you're adding them to your oatmeal, sprinkling them onto yogurt, topping your salads with them, or simply snacking on a handful between meals, nuts and seeds are small but mighty foods you shouldn't underestimate the benefits of, especially as far as your brain health goes.

Not only can nuts and seeds give you energy, increase your focus, and ward off brain fog, but they could even help you sleep better. "They contain tryptophan which can aid in better sleep and function by working with the hormone serotonin," Gervacio explains. Incredible!

The bottom line

Ultimately, the key to keeping your brain in tip-top shape is to practice a number of brain-healthy habits on a regular basis—and that includes maintaining a healthy diet full of nutrient-rich food, which can do wonders for both your body and your brain. When in doubt, keep your freezer stocked with salmon and your pantry packed with nuts and seeds!