The 7 foods to include in your diet to boost brain health – including dark chocolate

Health & FitnessFood
14 Jul 2026 • 5:37 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

The 7 foods to include in your diet to boost brain health – including dark chocolate

  • New research indicates that a structured programme, combining regular physical activity with a brain-healthy diet, can enhance memory and thinking skills in older adults at higher risk of dementia.
  • A two-year study across 11 Latin American countries found that participants following this programme showed improved performance in cognition, episodic memory, executive function, and processing speed tests.
  • Experts recommend nuts, especially Brazil nuts for healthy fats and selenium, and chickpeas for protein, as key additions to a brain-boosting diet.
  • Blueberries, rich in flavonoids like anthocyanins and quercetin, and green leafy vegetables, high in magnesium, B vitamins, and vitamin C, are also advised for their cognitive benefits.
  • Oily fish for omega-3 fatty acids, dark chocolate with at least 70 per cent cocoa for flavonoids, and extra virgin olive oil for its anti-inflammatory properties complete the top recommendations for brain health.

IN FULL

Newswav Malaysia Best News App

Newswav is an online content aggregator and obtains its content from different online sources. The content in the app do not belong to Newswav nor do they reflect the opinions of Newswav and its staff. Your use of this app indicates your understanding and acceptance of this information.

Newswav Sdn. Bhd. (201701008480 (1222645-M)) 2026 All Rights Reserved