A recent study has shown that people who follow a Mediterranean like diet have a 68% lower risk of age related cognitive decline. A Mediterranean diet encourages the use of fresh fruits and vegetables, olive oil, fish and nuts and minimizes the intake of sugar and red meat. This type of diet is thought to be beneficial because of the high amounts of Omega 3 fatty acids and phytonutrient antioxidants both of which support brain function and structure. Some helpful nutritional supplements to further support brain health would be 1) Phosphatidylserine which helps to sharpen memory, decrease cognitive decline and improve mood 2) DHA whose concentration in the brain declines with age and whose use can also reverse cognitive decline and 3) Ginkgo Biloba which promotes healthy blood flow to the brain and increases oxygen delivery to the brain as well as serving as an antioxidant. Ginkgo also increases the availability of the important brain neurotransmitter acetylcholine and has been shown to improve memory and sharpen focus. Of course don't forget heathy exercise (which increases blood flow to the brain and promotes the production of feel good neurotransmitters) and stress reduction (which decreases the harmful effects of the stress hormone cortisol). Last, good sleep is a must if you want your brain to fire on all it's cylinders.