As you get older and your risk of cognitive decline rises, it’s important to prioritize your brain health. There are many healthy habits you can incorporate into your daily life to flex your cognitive functions and keep your brain in great shape. One of the most important factors to consider is your diet. In addition to cutting out processed foods that could lead to brain fog, adding the right ingredients to your meals could also make a major difference. In fact, there are a few ingredients you can put right in your morning cup of coffee for a healthier brain over 40.
Who doesn’t love a cup of coffee in the morning? Luckily, coffee offers many health benefits in addition to the caffeine kick. But if you’re looking to bring your cup of joe to the next level and reap even more benefits, there are a few things you can add to the mix to give your brain health a boost. We spoke to dietitian Catherine Gervacio to discover a few of the best options. She told us that adding MCT oil and flaxseed oil to your coffee every day could do wonders to reduce brain fog and preserve your memory. Learn more about the benefits below.
1. MCT Oil
According to Gervacio, incorporating Medium-Chain Triglycerides (MCT) oil into one's diet can be a game-changer for those experiencing brain fog and seeking to sharpen memory. MCTs are healthy fats found in oils like coconut oil and palm oil, and they offer a wide array of health benefits—especially when it comes to your brain.
Gervacio emphasizes that MCT is readily available commercially and suggests adding it to coffee as a quick source of energy for the brain. The key benefit lies in MCT's ability to be rapidly converted into ketones, providing an alternative fuel source for the brain. "This oil is easily converted into ketones, which can serve as an alternative fuel source for the brain, possibly enhancing cognitive function," she says. This quick and efficient energy boost may prove instrumental in combating mental fatigue and promoting sharper cognitive abilities for those navigating the challenges of memory decline.
2. Flaxseed oil
Flaxseed oil is another fantastic oil that could help reduce brain fog and sharpen your memory when you add it to your coffee each morning. This oil comes from dried flaxseeds and is sometimes taken as a supplement. In addition to improving digestion and energy, it also offers benefits for your brain health.
For individuals over 40 looking to improve cognitive function, Gervacio underscores the significance of adding flaxseed oil into their dietary regimen. "Flaxseed oil is a rich source of omega-3 fatty acids which is essential for brain health," she says. The omega-3 fatty acids present in flaxseed oil are deemed essential for optimal cognitive function and memory.
By harnessing the power of omega-3 fatty acids, individuals over 40 can provide their brains with the nutrients necessary for sustained mental clarity and improved memory retention. Amazing!
The bottom line
Of course, keeping your brain in the best shape possible is about more than adding a few drops of oil into your coffee every day. However, when you incorporate oils like these into your diet, along with other brain-healthy ingredients, you'll certainly be one step closer to optimal cognitive health.
READ MORE: The Brain-Healthy Habits Health And Food Experts Swear By For A Sharper Mind And Better Sleep
