Can eating certain foods or drinking certain beverages make you smarter?

Continue reading

"There are ways of eating that maximize your brain's functioning," said local dietician Katherine Tallmadge.

The major fuel the brain uses for energy and thinking power is glucose, Tallmadge said.

"That comes from carbs, but it's important that you eat healthy carbs," she said.

Some sources include rolled oats or a glass of orange juice which can improve your focus for a test or meeting.

Foods with monosaturated fat also lead the way, like avocados, nuts and olive and canola oil. Tallmadge recommends at least an ounce of nuts a day.

SEE PHOTOS OF HEALTHY FOODS

"Avocados are high in fat but it's good fat--monounsaturated fat--which is important for helping cellular flexibility in the brain," she said.

Two drinks that pack a cognitive punch are green tea and coffee.

Coffee is loaded with nutrients that help you think better and may help prevent depression," she said.

For veggies, kale has the highest antioxidant score.

"It prevents cell death and keeps the brain cells active," she said.

Blueberries, which contain anthocyanins, lead brain-friendly fruits.

"Anthocyanin is known to help prevent memory loss and may actually help the brain function better," she said.

And finally, the number one brain food is salmon.

"We know that Omega 3 fatty acids are also very important for cellular flexibility and functioning in the brain," Tallmadge said.

However, even these smart foods should be eaten in moderation and it's important to consume a variety of them, she said.

For more information, visit katherinetallmadge.com.