Suffering from poor memory and concentration? Tiring out after a short period of mental activity? Give these brain foods a try.
Do you have trouble concentrating on your work or studies? Do you often forget where you placed your keys just minutes ago? Do you feel exhausted after a brief period of mental activity like writing?
If so, it could well be time for you to boost your mental power through brain foods. Combine these foods with regular exercise and sufficient sleep and you could well be on your way to being the owner of a sharper mental faculty.
That said, let’s look at foods that have the capacity to boost your brain power.
Eggs
The brain needs EFA (essential fatty acids). These fats are essential in the creation of synapses which is responsible for the maintenance of memory power. Include eggs in your diet. Better still, start off the day with an egg included with your breakfast.
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Fish
Fish is another good source of EFA. Go for salmon, sardines, mackerel and herrings. They contain omega-3 fatty acids that boost brain power and enhance the learning and memory faculties of your brain. Please note that sardines contain choline, a nutrient that enhances memory.
Soy
The health benefits of soy need little mention. Soy as we all know is packed with protein. Protein helps trigger neurotransmitters which are responsible for an active memory.
If you have difficulty preparing fresh soy, consume it in the form of soy protein isolate. It’s a concentrated form of soybean extract. It’s available in the form of powder, liquid and supplements.
Gingko Biloba
This is the magic herb that is called the `super memory’ herb. Consumption of this wonder herb leads to an increase of blood flow to the brain.
This works by dilating blood vessels and increasing the supply of oxygen. Gingko has another useful function. It gets rid of free radicals that could damage brain cells.
Don’t expect instant results with Gingko Biloba though. You would have to consume Gingko Biloba consistently to see some positive results.
Water
Water makes up 70 per cent of the brain. As such it is important that you consume enough water if you want your brain to perform at its peak
.A dehydrated brain is a sluggish brain. When your brain is dehydrated, it releases a hormone called cortisol which interferes with the brain’s ability to store information and propagate memory.
Conclusion
While the above foods boost your brain power, others have the opposite effect. These are mostly processed foods that have a high content of sugar, salt and preservatives.
They hinder the release of chemicals which are essential to the good functioning of your brain.
So, if you’re seriously interested in boosting your brain power, abstain from consuming pies, cakes and junk food excessively.