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diet plan for brain health

A sharp mind starts with a healthy diet. A diet plan for brain health includes foods that support cognitive function and protect against mental decline. It’s about feeding your brain the nutrients it needs to stay focused, sharp, and active.

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Diet plan grocery list

  • Spinach
  • Kale
  • Broccoli
  • Carrots
  • Blueberries
  • Strawberries
  • Raspberries
  • Oranges
  • Salmon
  • Tuna
  • Chicken breasts

  • Eggs
  • Greek yogurt
  • Cottage cheese
  • Almonds
  • Walnuts
  • Chia seeds
  • Flaxseeds
  • Quinoa
  • Brown rice
  • Oatmeal
  • Lentils

  • Black beans
  • Avocado
  • Olive oil
  • Coconut oil
  • Tomatoes
  • Bell peppers
  • Mushrooms
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Apples
  • Bananas
  • Dark chocolate

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Article Reviewed
• Written by our editorial team.
• Published on July 2, 2024.
• Updated on August 8, 2024.

Diet plan overview

A diet plan for brain health emphasizes foods that support cognitive function and mental clarity. It includes nutrients that help protect against cognitive decline and boost overall brain performance. This plan helps you stay sharp and focused through a balanced diet.

By choosing brain-boosting foods, you can enhance your mental agility and memory. It’s about feeding your mind the right nutrients for optimal brain health.

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Foods to eat

  • Fatty Fish: Include salmon, trout, and sardines for their omega-3 fatty acids that support brain function.
  • Leafy Greens: Add spinach, kale, and broccoli for their brain-boosting vitamins and antioxidants.
  • Berries: Enjoy blueberries, strawberries, and blackberries for their antioxidants that support memory.
  • Nuts and Seeds: Eat walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds for their healthy fats and brain-supporting nutrients.
  • Whole Grains: Choose whole grain bread, oatmeal, and quinoa for their steady energy release that supports brain function.
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Food is the most important tool in my medical toolbox. It works faster, better, and is cheaper than medication.

Mark Hyman, MD

Foods not to eat

  • Sugary Snacks: Avoid candies and sugary cereals that can lead to energy crashes and brain fog.
  • High-Saturated Fat Foods: Limit red meat and full-fat dairy that can negatively affect brain health.
  • Trans Fats: Steer clear of foods with hydrogenated oils like some baked goods and fried foods.
  • Processed Foods: Reduce intake of processed and pre-packaged meals that may contain unhealthy additives.
  • Alcohol: Minimize alcohol consumption as it can impair brain function and cognitive abilities.

Main benefits

The diet plan for brain health supports cognitive function and memory with brain-boosting nutrients. It can improve mental clarity and focus by including foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants. This plan also helps reduce the risk of cognitive decline through a balanced intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

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

How to budget on this diet plan

To budget on the diet plan for brain health, buy brain-boosting ingredients like nuts and seeds in bulk. Incorporate affordable sources of omega-3s, such as canned sardines, instead of pricey supplements. Focus on whole foods like leafy greens and berries, which can be bought in season or frozen for cost savings.

Download the FREE grocery list for this Diet plan

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Meal Plan for Brain Health

Day 1

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries and walnuts
  • Lunch: Grilled salmon with quinoa and spinach
  • Dinner: Baked chicken breasts with sweet potatoes and broccoli
  • Snack: Greek yogurt with strawberries

Calories: 1,850  Fat: 60g  Carbs: 210g  Protein: 120g

Day 2

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with almond milk, banana, and spinach
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breasts with sweet potatoes and green beans
  • Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus

Calories: 1,900  Fat: 65g  Carbs: 215g  Protein: 125g

Day 3

  • Breakfast: Whole wheat toast with avocado and eggs
  • Lunch: Lentil salad with tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with quinoa and zucchini
  • Snack: Apple slices with chia seeds

Calories: 1,850  Fat: 60g  Carbs: 210g  Protein: 120g

Day 4

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries and flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breasts with quinoa and spinach
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and cauliflower
  • Snack: Apple slices with dark chocolate

Calories: 1,900  Fat: 65g  Carbs: 215g  Protein: 125g

Day 5

  • Breakfast: Smoothie with almond milk, banana, and spinach
  • Lunch: Tuna salad with tomatoes and cucumbers
  • Dinner: Grilled chicken breasts with sweet potatoes and green beans
  • Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus

Calories: 1,900  Fat: 65g  Carbs: 215g  Protein: 125g

Day 6

  • Breakfast: Oatmeal with blueberries and walnuts
  • Lunch: Lentil soup with tomatoes and carrots
  • Dinner: Grilled salmon with quinoa and broccoli
  • Snack: Carrot sticks with hummus

Calories: 1,850  Fat: 60g  Carbs: 210g  Protein: 120g

Day 7

  • Breakfast: Greek yogurt with blueberries and flaxseeds
  • Lunch: Grilled chicken breasts with quinoa and spinach
  • Dinner: Baked salmon with sweet potatoes and cauliflower
  • Snack: Apple slices with dark chocolate

Calories: 1,900  Fat: 65g  Carbs: 215g  Protein: 125g

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

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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.