June is Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month: Nourish Your Brain with Purpose

June is Alzheimer’s and Brain Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about Alzheimer’s disease and other dementias, support those affected, and promote brain health for all. With over 55 million people worldwide living with Alzheimer’s or another form of dementia, this month is an vital reminder of the importance of early detection, education and proactive brain care.

Why Brain Health Matters
While there is currently no cure for Alzheimer’s, research shows that lifestyle choices—including diet, exercise and mental stimulation—can play a significant role in maintaining cognitive function and potentially reducing risk. This June, let’s take action by embracing habits that support brain health, starting with what’s on our plates.

Brain-Boosting Recipes to try this June
Here are three delicious, nutrient-rich recipes shown to support brain health.

Blueberry Walnut Oatmeal
Why it’s good for your brain: blueberries are rich in antioxidants that may delay brain aging and walnuts are packed with omega-3 fatty acids.

Ingredients:
1/2 cup rolled oats
1 cup unsweetened almond milk
1/2 cup fresh or frozen blueberries
1 tbsp chopped walnuts
1/2 tsp cinnamon
1 tsp honey (optional)

Instructions:

1. In a saucepan, bring almond milk to a boil.
2. Stir in oats and reduce heat. Cook for 5 minutes.
3. Add blueberries, cinnamon and walnuts. Cook for another 2 minutes.
4. Drizzle with honey if desired. Serve warm.

Leafy Green Power Salad
Why it’s good for your brain: leafy greens like spinach and kale are high in vitamin K, folate, and beta carotene—nutrients linked to slower cognitive decline. Be sure to pick up some organic greens from our Trailside Organic Farm at the weekly farm markets or in delicious salads in the Freeman Dining Room!

Ingredients:
2 cups baby spinach
1 cup chopped kale
1/2 avocado, sliced
1/4 cup pomegranate seeds
2 tbsp pumpkin seeds
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tbsp balsamic vinegar

Instructions:

1. Toss greens, avocado and pomegranate seeds in a large bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
3. Sprinkle with pumpkin seeds and serve.

Grilled Salmon with Garlic & Herbs
Why it’s good for your brain: Fatty fishlike salmon are rich in DHA, a type of omega-3 fatty acid essential for brain function.

Ingredients:
2 salmon fillets
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp lemon juice
1 tsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill or skillet over medium heat.
2. Mix garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs.
3. Brush mixture over salmon and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 4–5 minutes per side or until cooked through.