Trying to boost your SAT scores or get promoted at work? Adding specific foods into your diet can actually help you do that. What you put on your fork matters when it comes to optimal brain health and keeping up with the demands of a busy lifestyle.

“When your brain is functioning well, you have more energy and life gets better,” says New York Times best-selling author and physician Dr. Mark Hyman.

To boost your brain power, try consuming more of the seven foods below.

Blueberries
A study published by The Journal of Neuroscience found that eating blueberries every day can improve short term memory, balance, and your ability to learn new things faster.

Complex carbs
A low intake of whole grains and complex carbs can lower your mortality rate. Despite the popularity of low carb (and even no-carb) diets, getting enough complex carbs in the form of whole grains, vegetables, and even berries is important for brain health.

Salmon
Your brain is roughly 60% fat, so eating enough healthy fat is critical to keep it running smoothly. Try eating more fatty fish like salmon and sardines, which are high in omega-3s and anti-inflammatory properties.

Filtered water
Neuroscientist Dr. Mosconi says that staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your brain. Even just a 2% to 4% decrease in hydration is enough to cause delayed reactions, headaches, and mood swings.

Extra virgin olive oil
Extra virgin olive oil is the best oil to cook with because it’s high in fat that’s good for both your heart and your brain. Like salmon, extra virgin olive oil is also full of omega-3s, vitamin E, and anti-aging properties.

Dark chocolate
Reach for a bar of dark chocolate (80% or higher) next time you’re studying for an exam. Concentrated amounts of cacao are high in antioxidants that support cellular aging and help you stay alert.

Dark leafy greens
Vegetables like spinach, kale, and swiss chard are rich in vitamin E, fiber, and disease-fighting nutrients that can improve neurological function.

xx, The FabFitFun Team

Now that you’ve fueled up for a  healthy brain, here are five foods to help improve your gut health.