As we grow older, it becomes more and more important to eat right to make sure that the brain functions properly. Aging is a precursor for diseases like Alzheimer's and memory loss. Research has shown that getting nutrients from diet and dietary supplements can help stave off age related brain dysfunction.

Nuts

Nuts offer protein, fiber, good fats, vitamin B, E, and magnesium, which are all essential to the brain functioning at full throttle. The best nuts include filberts, almonds, hazelnuts, cashews, and walnuts. Macadamia nuts are high in fat and peanuts offer less good fats than their counterparts, so you can skip them.

Seeds

Seeds contain protein, beneficial fat, and vitamin E, as well as antioxidants and minerals like magnesium. The nutrients found in seeds not only boost brain function, but may also help alleviate mild depression. Try sunflower seeds, sesame seeds and flax seeds.

Whole eggs

While you may be sticking to egg whites for your diet, the whole egg contains nutrients that help the brain function and also prevent other age related disease. Choline helps with memory, while lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent the risk of age-related cataracts and macular degeneration, two of the most prevalent age-related eye conditions.

Berries

Berries contain antioxidants that help boost cognition, coordination, and memory. Blueberries are considered the best berry because they are lower in sugar than other berries and also protect the brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Dark Chocolate

Eating well doesn't have to mean just fruits and veggies. Dark chocolate has high content of flavanol epicatechin that facilitate blood supply to the brain and enhance cognitive skills. It may also help with memory and impulse control.

Garlic

Garlic has the potential to protect against stroke, dementia and Alzheimer’s disease.

Wild Salmon

Fish has long been labeled brain food, and wild salmon may offer extra protection than other varieties. It contains high levels of omega-3 and is also rich in protein, calcium and vitamins A, D and B group. These nutrients help enhance brain function and ward off and reduce the risk of degenerative mental disease.

Olive oil

Olive oil is a healthy fat, which helps with cognitive processing. Extra virgin organic varieties of olive oil are best because it contains no chemicals or additives, while raw unprocessed organic olive oil also contains fibers and proteins.

In addition to adding these brain-boosting foods to your diet, also avoid high-fructose corn syrup; sugary drinks, colas, and juices; refined white sugars; items with trans fats and partially-hydrogenated oils, and other processed foods as well as alcohol and nicotine, all of which drain your brain and may contribute to functional problems.