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Posted June 18, 2013

Feeding Your Brain

When learning is such a huge part of your life, you definitely do not want to do anything to jeopardize your cognitive function. There are activities that you may be partaking in that are harmful for your brain cells and could potentially decrease your ability to think, remember, and understand materials--and you thought tests were hard before. A decline in your brains function could spell disaster. Thankfully, there are a number of foods you can eat that will protect your most valuable possession.
 

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Every health professional out there has been telling people for years that they need their fill of the omega fatty acids. These are powerful antioxidants and can boost your memory while helping you maintain concentration. Sardines, salmon and walnuts are all very high in omega 3 fats.  At least one serving of walnuts or oily fish should be consumed each day. You will want to be careful though, as some types of fish are high in mercury. Mercury can have harmful effects on the body and brain if a surplus is consumed. Fish is easy to add in and can be kept almost anywhere in its canned form to whip up a sandwich on the go. Walnuts are an even easier addition to your diet as you just need to grab a handful and you are set to go with a healthy brain-boosting snack.
 

 

Choline

This nutrient is highly available in egg yolks. It is also produced within your body in small amounts; however, the amount produced decreases over time. Choline helps your brain process information in a timely manner. So next time you are thinking of eating eggs, do not just eat the whites consume the yolk as well. Eggs can be obtained rather cheaply and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Try picking up a cheap silicone egg cup that is microwave safe. Then in the morning just pop an egg in the cup, microwave it a couple minutes and throw it between toast slices or in an English muffin for a grab and go breakfast.
 

 

Tea

A simply brewed cup of tea can boast numerous health benefits. In relation to your brain, tea can help to mentally calm you, make you more alert and help to relieve stress . This can be a great addition to your study routine, or at night when you are struggling to finish a project. Try replacing your morning cup of coffee with a hot steamy cup of black, green, or even oolong tea.
 

 

Folic Acid

This nutritional super hero has just as much impact on your hard working brain as it does on a fetuses developing one. Folic acid is a key player in combating memory loss, and promoting cell growth. Spinach is a budget friendly food that, in one serving, provides approximately half of the amount of folic acid you need in a day. In order to add this to your regimen try making a salad with it, mixing it with rice, or using it in place of lettuce on a sandwich. As an added bonus, it is also high in vitamins A and K, as well as manganese to boost your overall health.
 

Because your brain relies on blood to carry nutrients to it, you will want to ensure you ingest a well-rounded diet, including lots of water. This will promote health in all bodily systems and allow the blood to travel more smoothly. When you are learning you are putting a lot of faith and pressure on your brain to perform for you. It is only fair that you provide it with all the necessary nutrients to help it keep working at its full potential.
 

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