As a multitude of scientific studies have shown, what we eat and drink has a direct impact on our brains. (Soda, alcohol and sugary treats? Not great for it. Fish, olive oil and veggies? Gold star.) Brain health experts have even pinpointed specific nutrients that are especially important for brain health, including helping to lower the risk of dementia.
Ideally, everyone would get all these nutrients through food. “Experts agree that the best source of vitamins and other nutrients is from whole foods as part of a balanced diet,” says Dr. Heather M. Snyder, Ph.D., the Vice President of Medical and Scientific Relations at Alzheimer’s Association. However, she adds that experts also recognize that this isn’t always possible. That’s where supplements can come in handy—to fill in the gaps.
While it’s important to know that no single food, beverage, ingredient, vitamin or supplement has