How diet and nutrition may help boost your brain health

CBS Mornings How does diet impact brain health? Alzheimer's Association shares nutrition tips with cognitive function in mind. .chip { background-image: url('/fly/bundles/cbsnewscore/images/chip-bgd/chip-bgd-cbs-mornings.jpg'); } By Emily Mae Czachor Emily Mae Czachor News Editor Emily Mae Czachor is a reporter and news editor at CBSNews.com. She typically covers breaking news, extreme weather and issues involving social justice. Emily Mae previously wrote for outlets like the Los Angeles Times, BuzzFeed and Newsweek. Read Full Bio Emily Mae Czachor May 13, 2026 / 10:00 AM EDT / CBS News Add CBS News on Google Foods that are good for your body can also have long-term benefits for brain health."CBS Mornings" is partnering with our sponsor the Alzheimer's Association for a three-part series, "Brain Health: From Awareness to Action," to explore the brain-healthy habits people can establish that may help lower the risk of dementia later in life. Alongside other lifestyle changes like ramping up physical movement, Alzheimer's Association CEO and president Joanne Pike says nutrition is one of the primary ways we can promote brain health. "The Alzheimer's Association conducted a lifestyle intervention research study that showed physical activity, nutrition and brain challenge really saves and increases your cognitive abilities," Pike told "CBS Mornings" co-host Gayle King.Diet and nutrition play an important role in the association's new "6-Step Challenge," which provides people with everyday tips to support their cognitive function.Foods to eat, and limit, for brain healthA diet geared toward brain health — known as the MIND diet — emphasizes meals that are high in:FruitsVegetables, especially leafy greensWhole grainsLean proteinsThose options "are nutrient-rich and dense, with great food value," said Pike.  The diet, which is backed by years of scientific research, also recommends limiting processed foods and added sugar.To help keep yours...