When life gets busy and the to-do lists grow longer, it’s easy to forget that what we eat has a huge impact on how we think, feel, and focus. The brain may be small, but it’s a powerhouse that needs the right fuel to function at its best. Fortunately, there are some standout foods that can help keep your brain sharp, improve your memory, and help you stay focused when you need it most.

So, if you’re looking to give your brain a boost, here are 10 foods that should be on your menu!

1. Blueberries: The Tiny Powerhouses

Packed with antioxidants, blueberries are practically brain fuel in berry form. These little guys are known for improving memory and protecting the brain from oxidative stress. Whether you toss them into a smoothie, mix them into yogurt, or enjoy them solo, blueberries are a simple way to feed your brain some much-needed nutrients. Plus, they’re delicious!

2. Fatty Fish: Your Brain’s Best Friend

Salmon, trout, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for brain health. Omega-3s build brain cells and improve learning and memory, keeping you focused throughout the day. If you’re not a fan of fish, you can still get your omega-3s from supplements, but fresh fish is always a great way to go. Try grilled salmon or a tasty trout dish for a delicious, brain-boosting meal.

3. Turmeric: The Golden Brain Booster

Turmeric is having a moment, and for good reason. This golden spice, known for its anti-inflammatory properties, contains curcumin—a compound that crosses the blood-brain barrier and has been shown to improve memory and ease stress. Toss some turmeric into your morning smoothie, sprinkle it over roasted veggies, or try it in a latte for a brain-friendly addition to your day.

4. Broccoli: The Green Machine

Broccoli isn’t just good for your body; it’s fantastic for your brain, too. This veggie is loaded with antioxidants and vitamin K, which is key for forming sphingolipids, a type of fat found in brain cells. Studies suggest that vitamin K can improve memory, so pile some steamed broccoli onto your plate and feel good about fueling your brain with every bite.

5. Pumpkin Seeds: Small But Mighty

Tiny but nutrient-packed, pumpkin seeds are a go-to snack for brain health. They’re loaded with magnesium, iron, zinc, and copper, all of which play a role in brain function. Plus, their antioxidant content helps protect the brain from free radicals. Sprinkle pumpkin seeds on your salad, add them to your oatmeal, or just grab a handful for a crunchy, brain-boosting snack.

6. Dark Chocolate: Sweet and Smart

Good news for chocolate lovers! Dark chocolate contains flavonoids, caffeine, and antioxidants, all of which are known to improve focus, memory, and overall brain function. A small piece of dark chocolate can help boost your mood and concentration. Just remember to go for dark chocolate with at least 70% cocoa content to get the most benefits.

7. Oranges: The Vitamin C Hero

Vitamin C is essential for preventing mental decline, and oranges are one of the best sources of this powerhouse nutrient. Just one orange provides the full daily recommended dose of vitamin C, which helps protect against age-related cognitive decline and keeps your brain sharp. Add an orange to your breakfast or enjoy it as a midday snack for a tasty vitamin boost.

8. Nuts: The Brainy Crunch

Nuts, especially walnuts, are packed with essential brain nutrients like healthy fats, antioxidants, and vitamin E. Vitamin E protects cells from oxidative stress, which is important for brain health. Grab a handful of mixed nuts to snack on during the day, and you’ll be doing your brain a big favor—just don’t overdo it, as they’re calorie-dense.

9. Eggs: Scramble Up Some Focus

Eggs are a fantastic source of choline, a nutrient that’s essential for brain development and memory. Choline helps produce acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that plays a role in mood and memory regulation. Eggs are also loaded with other important brain-boosting nutrients like B vitamins. Start your day with an egg or two, and you’re setting your brain up for success.

10. Green Tea: Sip Your Way to Smarts

Green tea isn’t just refreshing—it’s also packed with caffeine and L-theanine, a compound that increases the activity of neurotransmitters and helps improve memory and focus. It’s also a great choice if you’re looking to cut down on coffee without losing that mental edge. Brew a cup of green tea in the morning or during a midday slump for a smooth, steady boost of brainpower.

Putting It All Together

Eating for brain health doesn’t have to be complicated. By incorporating a few of these foods into your daily routine, you’ll be giving your brain the nutrients it needs to function at its best. Whether you’re looking to stay sharp for work, ace a test, or simply feel more focused throughout the day, these brain-boosting foods are an easy (and tasty) place to start.

The next time you’re meal planning, think about ways to add a little extra brainpower to your diet. After all, feeding your brain might just be the smartest thing you do all day!