Keeping the brain in top shape is vital for overall health and wellness. But how do you do it? What about snacking your way to it? Yes, you read it right. A snack can help you boost brain function and improve your memory! Dr. Clint Steele, a brain and nervous system specialist focused on cognitive longevity, has revealed a snack that is beneficial for the brain. Packed with essential nutrients, this simple food offers a range of cognitive benefits. Let’s take a look. Best snack for brain health
The snack in question is hard-boiled eggs! Yes, that’s right. We least expect it, but eggs offer many health benefits, including improving brain function. Hard-boiled eggs are rich in L-tyrosine, an amino acid known for sharpening focus and attention. This amino acid also helps reduce stress levels and improve cognitive function in those under stress. Dr. Steele also emphasized that this humble snack boosts mood. Research also supports this. A 6-year cohort study published in 2023 in the journal BMC Psychiatry found that egg consumption reduces the risk of depressive symptoms in the elderly.Nutritional powerhouse
An egg contains 78 calories, 6 grams of protein, and 5 grams of fat.A single large boiled egg contains:
- Vitamin A: 8% of the DV (daily value)
- Folate: 6% of the DV
- Pantothenic acid (vitamin B5): 14% of the DV
- Vitamin B12: 23% of the DV
- Riboflavin (vitamin B2): 20% of the DV
- Phosphorus: 7% of the DV
- Selenium: 28% of the DV
- Eggs also contain decent amounts of vitamin D, vitamin E, vitamin B6, calcium, and zinc
Eggs are rich in essential nutrients. It is an excellent source of choline. “Choline is a precursor for something called acetylcholine, which is a neurotransmitter that is essential for brain function, especially around memory,” the brain specialist said, in a video shared on Instagram.
Eggs are also loaded with vitamins B6, B9 (folate), and B12, all of which play crucial roles in brain health. Research has consistently shown that these vitamins help prevent cognitive decline and protect neural pathways. Dr. Steele emphasized the importance of folate in brain health and development. Deficiencies in folate are linked to mood disorders and an increased risk of cognitive impairment. Regular egg consumption can help maintain adequate levels of these nutrients and support long-term brain vitality.
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Eggs also provide omega-3 fatty acids, which enhance brain function. These healthy fats are known to support neural communication and reduce inflammation, contributing to overall cognitive health.
“I love hard-boiled eggs as a snack. Put a little pepper on them and they’re great, but understand you have to eat the whole egg. Most of those nutrients I talked about are in the egg yolk, not just the egg white. So, make sure you eat the whole egg. Now, research has shown that eating eggs regularly does help to improve brain function, help reverse cognitive decline,” he said. Research indicates that consuming four to six eggs per week can improve brain function and even help reverse early signs of cognitive decline. You can have them for breakfast or as a snack. Eggs are indeed the most affordable and nutrient-dense superfood for the brain.
