4 foods that curb dementia risk

When it comes to protecting your brain, certain foods might be even more beneficial than you'd expect. Everyday eats like almonds, black beans and grape juice—staples you likely already have in your pantry—could help reduce the risk of dementia by delivering nutrients known to support long-term brain health. Here, our roundup of the best foods that help keep your memory sharp for years to come

- -Jayne Jacova Feld

Almonds

They may be small, but almonds are rich in vitamin E, an antioxidant that acts as a protective shield for brain cells. "Vitamin E has been shown to defend brain cells from oxidative stress, which is linked to memory loss," says Neal Barnard, M.D., author of Power Foods for the Brain. Walnuts, hazelnuts and sunflower seeds also offer brainprotecting vitamin E. Aim for about 1 oz. of almonds daily, which provides roughly 5 mg of vitamin E, says Dr. Barnard.

That's almost a third of the daily intake recommended for optimal brain health.

Leafy greens