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Zone diet plan for brain health

The Zone diet for brain health is meant to give your mental engine an added boost whenever you feel overworked. Its constituents further comprise omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants that improve the functions of the brain, concentration, memory, and other functions of cognition. It is best when you want everything to be full power in the brain’s capabilities and its clarity.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Avocado
  • Salmon
  • Blueberries
  • Spinach
  • Walnuts
  • Eggs
  • Olive oil
  • Broccoli
  • Almonds
  • Dark chocolate
  • Greek yogurt

  • Tomatoes
  • Chia seeds
  • Quinoa
  • Chicken breast
  • Turmeric
  • Cauliflower
  • Green tea
  • Pumpkin seeds
  • Tuna
  • Red bell pepper
  • Garlic

  • Sardines
  • Kale
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Black beans
  • Flaxseed
  • Sunflower seeds
  • Apples
  • Beets
  • Brussels sprouts
  • Carrots
  • Pomegranates

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on July 2, 2024.
• Updated on Oct. 1, 2024.

Diet plan overview

The Zone diet plan for brain health works wonderfully in the enhancement of one’s mental agility. There is therefore a corresponding increase in intake of omega 3s and antioxidants which are important in protecting brain cells from damage and maintaining the health of the nerves.

This diet for the brain is good and applicable to every individual, especially to those who want to elevate their brain flexing skills and to prevent the risk of lapses in memory.

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Foods to eat

  • Healthy Fats for the Brain: Raw, nutritious fats from sources like avocados and nuts are essential for brain health.
  • Healthy Berries: Berries like blueberries and strawberries protect brain cells from damage and should be included in the diet.
  • Whole Grain Foods: Whole grains like porridge, oats, and whole grain bread support optimal brain function and sustained energy.
  • Dark Leafy Greens: Brain-friendly vegetables such as spinach, kale, and other leafy greens should be increased in daily intake.
  • Water: Drink plenty of water to enhance concentration and cognitive performance.
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Try to include one color from each color category most days of the week. For example, have blue and red berries in your smoothie, leafy greens with your lunch, purple carrots and orange.

Mark Hyman, MD

Foods not to eat

  • Sugary Snacks: Reduce sugar-filled snacks to avoid energy spikes and crashes that can affect the brain.
  • Fried Foods: Avoid fried foods as they can contribute to brain deterioration.
  • Excessive Caffeine: Regulate caffeine intake to protect sleep patterns and brain function.
  • Processed Meat: Consume processed meats in moderation, as nitrates and preservatives may harm the brain.
  • Artificial Additives: Avoid foods with artificial colors and flavors, as they are detrimental to brain health.

Main benefits

This Zone diet plan for brain health protects the brain from within, since all the food consumed will nourish it so as to prevent any malfunctioning or fogginess. If these power foods are regularly incorporated in one’s diet, they are able help in retention of memory and prevention of cognitive degeneration, with the former being mostly ideal for aging population.

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📊 50% of Americans said they follow a specific diet or eating pattern (Source)

How to budget on this diet plan

For protection of the brain while on Zone diet plan, the diet should aim at fatty foods and rich antioxidant fruits such as salmon, blueberry, and dark chocolate. Buy them on discount sales, and if some of these sources are too pricey, some of the nutrients can also be gained from cheap alternatives such as canned salmon or frozen berries. Adding flaxseeds and walnuts in the diet helps achieve necessary fats without using expensive supplements.

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Meal Plan for Zone Diet Plan for Brain Health

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, spinach, and a side of red bell pepper
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes, broccoli, and a side of kale
  • Snack: Apple slices with almond butter

Calories: 1500  Fat: 65g   Carbs: 130g   Protein: 110g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and a side of avocado
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with quinoa, tomatoes, and a side of spinach
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with black beans, cauliflower, and a side of carrots
  • Snack: Dark chocolate with walnuts

Calories: 1500  Fat: 67g   Carbs: 132g   Protein: 108g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Sardine salad with spinach, quinoa, and a side of red bell pepper
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes, broccoli, and a side of kale
  • Snack: Apple slices with walnuts

Calories: 1480  Fat: 65g   Carbs: 130g   Protein: 110g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and a side of avocado
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, spinach, and a side of red bell pepper
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with black beans, cauliflower, and a side of carrots
  • Snack: Dark chocolate with almonds

Calories: 1500  Fat: 67g   Carbs: 132g   Protein: 108g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with quinoa, tomatoes, and a side of spinach
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with sweet potatoes, broccoli, and a side of kale
  • Snack: Apple slices with walnuts

Calories: 1480  Fat: 65g   Carbs: 130g   Protein: 110g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Scrambled eggs with spinach and a side of avocado
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breast with quinoa, spinach, and a side of red bell pepper
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with black beans, cauliflower, and a side of carrots
  • Snack: Dark chocolate with almonds

Calories: 1500  Fat: 67g   Carbs: 132g   Protein: 108g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries and chia seeds
  • Lunch: Sardine salad with spinach, quinoa, and a side of red bell pepper
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breast with sweet potatoes, broccoli, and a side of kale
  • Snack: Apple slices with walnuts

Calories: 1480  Fat: 65g   Carbs: 130g   Protein: 110g

These nutritional values are approximate and can vary slightly based on specific portion sizes and preparation methods.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

Get grocery list
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⚠️ Keep in mind

As with any dietary change, it is recommended to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian before changing your dietary habits.