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While thinking about boosting the brain power, people usually consider walnuts, blueberries, or dark chocolate. But did you know there are several unusual foods that are often overlooked, but can supercharge your mental performance? These foods nourish your body and fuel your mind, helping improve memory, focus, and problem-solving skills. Packed with unique nutrients, antioxidants, and brain-friendly compounds, they might just be the missing link in your cognitive health routine.

Let’s explore five such unconventional yet powerful foods and uncover how they can transform your brain health.

1. Seaweed

Do you also think that seaweed is just for sushi rolls? Well, you're wrong! It's a nutrient powerhouse for the brain that's rich in iodine. It helps in regulate thyroid function, which directly impacts mental energy and alertness. It also has antioxidants, such as fucoxanthin, which protects brain cells from oxidative stress, slowing cognitive decline. Seaweed is also a source of omega-3 fatty acids, essential for neuron function, and unique polysaccharides that support gut health, which research shows has a strong link to brain performance. Adding seaweed to your diet can improve memory retention, enhance focus, and balance mood swings.

2. Black Sesame Seeds

Black sesame seeds are filled with sesamol and sesamin, poten antioxidants that protect brain cells from damage and enhance neurotransmitter function. They are also a great source of vitamin E, which slows age-related cognitive decline, and zinc, which improves learning ability and memory recall. In traditional Chinese medicine, black sesame seeds are prized for their ability to nourish the brain and support longevity. They can be added to smoothies, baked goods, or even salads, giving them a deep and nutty flavour.

3. Lion’s Mane Mushroom

Lion's mane mushroom is not ordinary fungus. It helps stimulate the production of nerve growth factor, a compound that regenerates brain cells and strengthens neural pathways. This makes it particularly effective for enhancing memory, learning ability, and overall cognitive performance. A research also shows that it protects against Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. Apart from supporting brain health, this mushroom is also good for mood regulation and promoting gut-brain balance. It’s a remarkable natural brain booster that deserves a spot in your diet.

4. Black Garlic

Black garlic is aged under controlled humidity and heat which turns its cloves dark, sweet, and chewy. It helps in boosting the antioxidant levels. This process of ageing naturally increases -allyl cysteine, a compound linked to improved memory and neuroprotection. Black garlic also improves blood flow, ensuring more oxygen and nutrients reach your brain. Unlike raw garlic, it has a mild, caramel-like flavor, making it easy to add to sauces, spreads, and even desserts.

5. Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds are often overlooked and thrown away. But, these seeds are loaded with zinc, magnesium, iron, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids, which are important for brain health. Zinc supports nerve signaling, magnesium calms the brain, and copper helps with neurotransmitter synthesis. Studies suggest that people who consume zinc-rich foods like pumpkin seeds may perform better in memory and problem-solving tasks.