Many people know the benefits of nuts and drinks, such as green tea, to slow down aging and to stay healthy for as long as possible.
According to Eat This Not That, citing the journal Nutrients, avocados are also an important food for improving cognitive function and memory.
avocado
Increase lutein levels
Researchers at Tufts University conducted a randomized trial in which volunteer participants ate an avocado daily for six months, while others ate either a potato or one cup of chickpeas. At the end of the trial, the results revealed that those who ate avocados had increased levels of lutein, which is linked to cognitive function and memory.
Nutritionist Courtney Bliss said: “This research is very exciting and shows great promise for healthy aging. With age and more attention being paid to health, this simple nutritional supplement can be a great part of nutrition for all ages.”
expressive
Rich in magnesium
Dietitian, Trista Best, says that avocados are very useful because they contain an appropriate amount of magnesium, explaining that “magnesium is vital for life, because it is present in every cell of the body and is important for the performance of many functions of the body.” “One avocado contains approximately 60 milligrams of magnesium, which is 15 percent of the recommended daily value for this nutrient,” she adds.
Best explains that magnesium “not only works within the brain, for improved mood and cognitive support, but its benefits also include widening blood vessels, which increases blood flow to the brain.”
Omega-3 fatty acids
Best says that when it comes to making a list of brain-boosting foods, foods with omega-3s are usually on top. In addition to being rich in magnesium, avocados are also rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
And Best adds that “approximately 60% of the brain is made of fat, 30% of which are omega-3 fats,” explaining that “foods rich in omega-3s have been scientifically proven to help prevent cognitive diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease and slow mental decline. The brain needs omega-3 fats to make neurons, which are vital for memory and an individual’s ability to learn.”
