Food that feeds creativity

Don’t look at that above headline with skepticism! There is food out there that has been proven to help with brain function, longevity and creativity.

Omega 3 fatty acids are essential for brain function and development. These healthy fats have amazing brain power. Higher dietary Omega 3 fatty acids are linked to lower dementia and stroke risks, slower mental decline and may play a vital role in enhancing memory. Here are the top foods that are high in Omega 3 fatty acids:

• Flaxseed
• Walnuts
• Fish (salmon, halibut and snapper — it is recommended to eat two servings of fish weekly)
• Cooked soybeans
• Steamed/boiled shrimp
• Raw tofu
• Baked/broiled scallops
• Baked winter squash

Nuts and seeds are good sources of the antioxidant vitamin E, which is associated with less cognitive decline as you age. Dark chocolate also has powerful antioxidant properties and contains natural stimulants such as caffeine, which can enhance focus and concentration. You can enjoy up to an ounce a day of nuts and dark chocolate to provide all the benefits you need without excess calories fat, or sugar. The heart and brain heavily depend on blood flow to function efficiently. Eating whole grains and fruits such as avocados can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and enhance blood flow, offering a simple, tasty way to fire up brain cells. Whole grains such as popcorn and whole wheat also contribute to dietary fiber and vitamin E, while avocados have a good monounsaturated fat that contributes to healthy blood flow. Research in animals shows that blueberries help protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Studies also show that diets rich in blueberries significantly improved both the learning capacity and motor skills of aging rats, making them mentally equivalent to much younger rats. Carbohydrates — especially when eaten with no protein or fat — have been proven to be mentally soothing. Here are some foods high in carbohydrates:

• Baked potato
• Waffles
• Gatorade
• Grape-Nuts
• Whole wheat bread
• Bagels
• Stuffing
• Gram crackers
• Shredded wheat
• Cream of Wheat

What types of food do you consider brain food?