Musings | Brain Food
“The ideal fuel for your body is what leaves you alert, agile, and active”
Jorie Janzen is a Registered Dietitian based in Winnipeg. When asked about strategies related to food choice, she compares how we fuel our bodies to stoking a campfire. We always need to keep the fire stoked (i.e., we need a steady supply of fuel from various foods that provide different energy), but if the fire gets low or goes out, it takes a lot of work to get the fire burning again. She also notes that it is important not to get stuck on right and wrong around eating. Instead, she encourages people to explore what works best for them right now. That doesn't mean that you won't make adjustments as you move along in your journey, but doing what works best for you based on your current life situation is a healthy way to approach food and nutrition.
Today, we look at food choices that can help boost your brainpower and heighten your concentration and focus - the good news? Dark chocolate is on the list!
There are no magic food bullets that will boost your brainpower, but eating a combination of foods outlined on the left by Harvard Medical School may help you sharpen your thinking!
When you feel your concentration waning at work, think about what (or if) you have eaten that day. No fuel or limited fuel = decreased focus. When your body gets hungry, your brain does not function effectively.
In addition to those foods mentioned already, here are some other snacks to try that sharpen your focus and fuel your body and brain:
Eggs: They contain choline which reduces inflammation and cognitive decline, AND they help your body produce serotonin which improves mood and aids with sleep.
Nuts: Nuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, essential for brain function, and they are crunchy and fun to eat! Add them to a salad or throw them in a bowl of cereal.
Pumpkin Seeds: These tiny seeds contain zinc, help your metabolism and immune system, and aid with memory and thinking skills - they are good raw or roasted.
Dark Chocolate: Yay! This type of chocolate contains caffeine, so it helps with focus. It is also rich in iron, copper, and other minerals, and its an antioxidant.
In addition to choosing foods that help with focus and thinking, we can also make choices based on our genes. Nutrigenomix is a company that provides genetic testing that results in personalized nutrition planning. Check out the website to learn more and find a service provider near you (there are some in Winnipeg).
Remember, your body is like a car or a campfire - it cannot run without fuel. Understanding the foods that support and enhance cognitive function and focus can help us fuel our bodies and our brains.