Making It a Part of Your Daily Routine
Knowing what to eat is the first step; turning that knowledge into a consistent habit is the next. The best approach is to make small, manageable changes that feel natural and enjoyable. Here are some simple tips to integrate these brain-boosting foods into your everyday life.
Start Small, One Meal at a Time. Don’t try to overhaul your entire diet overnight. Choose one meal to focus on first. For example, decide that this week, you’ll upgrade your breakfast. You could switch from a sugary cereal to oatmeal topped with blueberries and walnuts. Once that feels like a routine, you can focus on making your lunches healthier.
Make Healthy Swaps. Look for simple substitutions you can make. Swap your afternoon snack of chips or cookies for a small handful of almonds or a piece of fruit. Use whole-wheat bread instead of white bread. Cook with olive oil instead of butter when appropriate.
Plan Ahead. A little planning can make healthy eating much easier. At the beginning of the week, think about a few meals you’d like to make that include fatty fish or leafy greens. Add those items to your grocery list so you have them on hand. When you have a plan, you’re less likely to opt for less healthy convenience foods.
Stay Hydrated. Water is essential for your brain to function at its best. Dehydration, even in mild forms, can impair attention, memory, and other cognitive skills. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the day as a reminder to drink up. Unsweetened tea, like green tea, also contributes to your fluid intake.
Combine Diet with Other Healthy Habits. Nutrition is a cornerstone of senior nutrition and cognitive function, but it works best as part of a holistic lifestyle. Regular physical activity, getting enough quality sleep, staying socially engaged, and challenging your mind with puzzles or new hobbies all work together with a healthy diet to support your brain. A healthy mind is supported by a healthy body, and mental health is an important piece of that puzzle. For mental health support, consult the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
