By Rebecca Jones
Just like your body needs energy to work properly so does your brain. When two o’clock rolls around and you feel your will to be productive fading don’t make the mistake of grabbing a processed sugary snack that might make you feel better in the short term but will ultimately leave you feeling even more frazzled. Foods rich in omega 3 fatty acids, antioxidants and fiber will not only leave you satiated they will give your brain the boost it needs to stay on task until five o’clock rolls around. Here are six foods that are guaranteed to get you running at peak performance.
Avocados
Avocados are not only good tasting they are also good for your brain. High in monounsaturated fat they will help blood circulate better and allow for optimal brain cognition. Avocados are believed to contribute to lower blood pressure another factor in overall brain function. Try snacking on guacamole and baby carrots in the afternoon or add to an omelet for breakfast.
Nuts
Nuts are nature’s best energy food. Rich in healthy fats, fiber and protein they will not only give you an immediate energy boost but will sustain you over a long period of time. If dinner seems an infinitely long way off nuts are a go to for warding off hunger and their vitamin E content will increase cognitive function as well. Almonds have the most health benefits of any nut so grab a handful the next time you are craving a salty snack.
Blueberries
The perfect food for any brainiac, blueberries are chock full of antioxidants and healthy carbs. It is believed that eating blueberries can lower your risk for Alzheimer’s and has been proven to improve learning abilities and motor skills in rats. Add a cup to your morning cereal or eat them alone they are the perfect indulgence for a sweet tooth that won’t wreak havoc on your blood sugar.
Salmon
Omega 3-fatty acids are essential to brain function and salmon is one of nature’s best sources. Eating salmon can improve cognition and alertness, reduce the risk of dementia and depression, stabilize mood, and improve memory. That is a lot of brain power packed into one filet; pair it with a whole grain like brown rice to give its benefits an extra boost.
Oatmeal
Another of nature’s power foods, oatmeal is the perfect way to start your brain on the right path first thing in the morning. As good for your brain as it is for your heart oatmeal is full of fiber, protein and even a few fatty acids. Oatmeal can ward of irritability by keeping your blood sugar stable all morning long. To increase the benefits and the flavor try mixing in a handful of blueberries and slivered almonds.
Green Tea
The caffeine in green tea is thought to increase your memory and focus while its antioxidants increase blood flow to the brain. Put down that sugary mocha and enjoy two cups of green tea everyday to enjoy all the benefits of this Japanese favorite.
The next time your mind starts wandering ignore the vending machine and instead grab one of these brain boosting snacks, not only do they all taste delicious they will keep you fuller longer and keep your brain functioning at its absolute best. Who knows what you can do with this new smarter, more efficient you.