Green living: Brains

Turn your Blah Brain into a Super Brain in 8 Easy Foods

The diminutive brain may only occupy a wee 2% of your body weight, but it consumes 20% of your recommended daily calorie intake. Your finely-tuned thought machine runs on glucose which cannot be stored in the bloodstream. This means you have to have a constant supply of glucose, vitamins and minerals to power your brain or it starts to falter. If you don’t feed your brain, a lack of concentration and memory loss will render you less than sparky. The moral of the story? Feed your brain or become a zombie. If you have a morning class, a big exam or a presentation to give, you can improve your performance by 20% just by having a good breakfast.

Eat yourself smart by opting for these brain-friendly foods:

  • Wild salmon: Packed with essential fatty acids (most notably Omega-3) and a good source of protein.
  • Akai berries: Packed with anti-oxidants, vitamins and protein, Akai berries even have omega-3 fatty acids.
  • Whole grains: bran, whole wheat, oatmeal, brown rice and wheat germ all contain Vitamin B6 and folate. Folate helps to increase the blood flow to your brain.
  • Eggs: Egg yolks provide protein and choline. Choline helps to build neurotransmitters and proteins help to fuel the brain.
  • Flax Seeds: The best source of alpha-linolenic acid.
  • Leafy Veggies: like spinach, kale and cabbage are crammed with vitamins B6, B12, Iron and folate.
  • Sage: Prevents acetylcholine, a vital neurotransmitter involved in learning and memory, from breaking down in the brain.
  • Walnuts are a great source of Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids which improve mood. They also contain thiamine and magnesium which improve your memory.

About

Nikki is an author and writer specializing in green living ideas and tips, adventure travel, upcycling, and all things eco-friendly. She's traveled the globe, swum with sharks and been bitten by a lion (fact). She lives in a tiny town with a fat cat and a very bad dog.

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