Can food grow new brain cells? This may seem like a tall claim, but a neuroscientist, “Dr. Shintani from Harvard,” shares some common foods that can boost cognitive health and also help generate new brain cells. Here’s all you need to know about the link between food and cognitive health.
Are foods actually good for the brain?
Eating healthy and adding certain foods to the daily diet can actually help in improving cognitive health and can also generate new brain cells. In an insightful video, a brain health expert revealed some common foods and drinks that can help boost a healthier brain and “grow new brain cells.” In
As per neuroscientist Dr. Shintani from Harvard University, there are certain foods that can naturally help in boosting cognitive health and help in the growth of new brain cells. Dr. Shintani shared his analysis on PeaceDiet.org, wherein he concluded that there are nutrients that help produce BDNF (brain-derived neurotrophic factor), which is basically a protein. These foods are naturally loaded with compounds that help improve brain power.
Blueberries
Blueberries were one of the first foods suggested by the neuroscientist; he mentions that these fruits provide anthocyanins, which are water-soluble pigments that contribute to the red, purple, or blue hues of fruits, vegetables, and flowers.

Coffee
Another brain-boosting drink is coffee, which naturally provides chlorogenic acid, which is a polyphenol compound present in coffee and black tea as well as other plants, fruits, and vegetables. He mentioned that it has numerous potential and umpteen health advantages, like being an antioxidant and helping with neuropathological conditions by preventing oxidation and inhibiting neuroinflammation.
Turmeric
According to Dr. Shintani, turmeric is yet another spice that has curcumin, an active compound that has a number of potential advantages for the brain, such as lowering inflammation, raising docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), which is crucial for brain growth and function, enhancing memory, possessing antioxidant qualities, and more.
Chia Seeds
Lastly, these seeds and flax seeds are thought to be brain-healthy due to their omega-3s, fiber, and antioxidants, which can support mental health, inflammation reduction, and cognitive function. Also, they are a good source of amino acids and plant protein.