In fact, some foods can actually impair your memory and increase your risk of neurodegenerative disorders, while others can help stave off cognitive decline.
In the study, published in the journal Frontiers in Nutrition, researchers examined a group of 60 adults ages 50-80 for a period of 12 weeks
supplementing some of their diets with freeze-dried cranberry powder. Based on cognitive assessments before and after those 12 weeks, those who had been given the powder
"The findings of this study are very encouraging, especially considering that a relatively short 12-week cranberry intervention was able to produce significant
improvements in memory and neural function," Vazour says. "However, whether these effects are observed in people with mild cognitive decline or neurodegenerative disorders
Additionally, while cranberries can be beneficial for your mind, the best change you can make to keep you sharp, as far as your food choices are concerned
"It is safe to recommend including a couple of servings of fruit per day in your diet, especially berries, as a way to prevent cognitive changes associated with aging
"The real winners in this space, however, have been studies examining the effect of complete dietary changes on brain health and dementia."
He recommends the MIND diet, which combines elements of the Mediterranean diet with those of the hypertension-fighting DASH diet.
"Focus on making one or two small changes in your diet to incorporate more of these brain-friendly foods," she says.