Purple Sweet Potatoes
Loaded with antioxidants just like orange and yellow sweet potatoes, the pigments in the purple variety give it some distinct advantages in promoting brain health. These pigments help preserve the integrity of blood vessels that transport oxygen to the brain that normally diminish as we age. Keeping these blood vessels in good working order will ensure a healthy supply of blood to the brain. The best results will come from eating one sweet potato twice a week with the nutrient rich skins intact.

Coffee
Though not the primary reason for consumption of coffee among most people, it actually has the ability to protect the fat component of cells against oxidative stress. This creates a positive effect of protecting brain cells, as the human brain is made up of 60% fat. Home brewed coffee tends to have less caffeine than varieties bought in a coffee shop, and will be a better choice considering that the best benefits come from drinking 2-4 cups a day. If you’re sensitive to caffeine, drink less or drink decaffeinated coffee instead.

Ginger
Ginger is a potent anti-inflammatory, and can preempt the manufacture of inflammatory brain chemicals, and potentially slow down the progression of inflammation related conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. A 500 milligram supplement capsule a day is the best dosage, but you can also add one teaspoon of fresh ginger or one half teaspoon of powdered ginger to a meal 2-3 times a week.

Sardines
Most people that think of fish for their brain boosting omega-3 fatty acids usually think of salmon or mackerel. However, sardines are loaded with them and are also far less likely to be contaminated with mercury than larger fish. They’re also budget friendly, and conveniently canned and often require no cooking. Include 3-4 servings of omega-3 rich fish in your meals weekly. Be sure to trim the skin when cooking other fish, as that will also reduce mercury content.

Take A Breather
Deep breaths raise your body’s blood oxygen levels, which can help increase your energy and alertness by lowering blood pressure and slowing your heart rate. The idea is to breathe deeply into your belly, not your chest. While sitting upright, inhale slowly through your nose and feel your abdomen push out, then exhale slowly through your mouth. Alternatively, a method used for quick energy in yoga calls for quick inhaling and exhaling through your nose while your mouth is closed. It is recommended to take 3 of these rapid breaths within a second, and repeat up to 15 seconds.

Move Around
If you have an office job like so many Americans, try getting a little exercise either on your lunch hour or if you get a shorter break throughout the day. A study from California State University, Long Beach suggested that the participants had a longer time of increased energy after taking a 10 minute walk than they did if they ate a candy bar or other sugary quick fix. The reason that a little brisk exercise works better than a store bought solution is that walking pumps oxygen through your veins and muscles.

Drink More Water
Your brain is made of 83% water, so it just makes sense that if you’re dehydrated it’s not going to function as well as it could or should. Fatigue isn’t the only symptom of dehydration of course, it can also cause depression, confusion, aggravation, constipation, and headaches. Make sure you drink plenty of water, or eat foods that have high water content like fruits and vegetables. Excess caffeine can cause dehydration, so be sure to balance it carefully.