Find out which foods can support cognitive performance, memory and mood!
Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel.
What affects your mind also affects your gut, and vice versa.
Photo:Photographer: Morgan Hunt Glaze, Food Stylist: Margaret Monroe Dickey, Prop Stylist: Priscilla Montiel. EatingWell design.
This powerful connection is known as the gut-brain axis.
This means, what you eat can also influence your thoughts, emotions and behaviors.
Below, we identify the six best fermented foods you should be eating for brain health.
The 6 Best Fermented Foods for Brain Health
1.
Brooking enjoys Greek yogurt with honey, and research shows this combo can boost good bacteria in the gut.
While research is limited, one study found a potential connection between fermented foods and mood.
Kombuchais also rich in polyphenols, which can reduce oxidative stress and prevent diseases, including neurodegenerative ones.
Enjoy kombucha for an alcohol-free happy hour beverage or try whipping up your own at home.
Miso
Misois a thick paste made from fermented soybeans.
This savory paste is not only loaded with umami-rich flavor, but also packed with brain-boosting probiotics.
Plus, the isoflavones in miso may help to reduce inflammation in the brain and body.
In addition to its protein power, tempeh also contains probiotics that can support gut and brain health.
She also adds, Tempeh contains bioactive compounds, such as acetylcholine, that may positively impact memory function.
Tempeh has a nutty flavor and dense texture, which can elevate any dish.
For your next taco night, try out ourSesame-Honey Tempeh & Quinoa Bowl.
Kimberlain points out a study that investigated the effects of kefir on memory in adults.
Additionally, those consuming kefir experienced an increased concentration ofLactobacillusin their gut.A brain- and gut-health superstar!
Enjoy kefir by the glass or add it to overnight oats, smoothies, creamy salad dressings or soups.
Below are tips from our two dietitians on what else you could do to help promote healthy cognitive function.
2021;13(3):788-795. doi:10.1007/s12602-020-09740-w
U.S. Department of Agriculture.
FoodData Central.Cabbage, kimchi.
Truong VL, Jeong WS.Cellular Defensive Mechanisms of Tea Polyphenols: Structure-Activity Relationship.Int J Mol Sci.
2021;22(17):9109.
2023;26(3):265-274. doi:10.1080/1028415X.2022.2046963
