There are some foods that naturally feed the brain. The brain-friendly foods in this category can help you concentrate, magnify your memory, calm stress and even prevent brain aging. On the other hand are foods that do no good to the brain.

Through this week we will look at the best and worst foods for the brain, starting with proteins. Watch for the next three posts that will address carbs and oils, and also which foods have the highest antioxidant, brain-protecting abilities.

Proteins
Best Food for Brain Function:
Fish: salmon, albacore tuna, ahi tuna, sardines
Eggs: look for Omega-3 eggs or organic and free-range eggs
Beans
Soy: tofu, tempeh, protein powders
Whey
Cottage and ricotta cheese

Bad Food for Brain Function:
Red meats, pork and other fatty meats
Processed, deli meats

Turkey and chicken are okay brain proteins – not the best but certainly not the worst either. Clams, shrimp and other fish, along with lamb, also fall into the “okay” category.

There is an important note that needs to be made about eating fish: Nearly all fish and shellfish contain traces of mercury, which can harm a child’s developing nervous system. Salmon and sardines are both considered “low-mercury” fish while tuna has higher amounts. Additionally, wild salmon is a better pick over farm-raised salmon. The FDA and EPA suggest that pregnant women and young children eat a maximum of two low-mercury fish meals per week.