The brain and body are intimately connected! The challenge is to keep all systems working as well as possible. We used to say that whatever was good for your heart was also good for your brain. Now we have significant evidence to support this notion. Whatever is good for your body (like nutrient-rich, non-processed foods) is also good for your brain.
In fact, certain foods have a specific impact on parts of your brain or brain functioning. You may have heard that blueberries are great anti-oxidants, which reduce inflammation throughout the body and can also increase blood flow to the brain and communication between brain neurons. Walnuts can promote gut health, may reduce the risks of cancer, as well as improve mental processing speed, flexibility, and memory. Both of these foods are good for the brain AND the body.
Did you know that you can even select foods that will help with concentration and memory? Foods that are high in protein and lower in carbohydrates (such as eggs, nuts and seeds, avocado, and green tea) help you to feel more energetic and focused.
To boost mood, eat foods that will raise serotonin levels (such as seafood, chickpeas, and dark chocolate) at the same time as limiting simple carbs (like bread, pasta, and potatoes).
So, while you prepare lunches for the return to school, think about how you might intentionally enhance brain functioning. Or if you are, yourself, studying for an exam or trying to learn something new, consider these top 8 foods at https://www.happihuman.com/search?q=studying.
Happy eating!

Written by: Kim Calder Stegemann
Kim (or Dr. Kim as some of her clients call her) is an educator, therapist, author, and researcher. She has spent her professional career helping others to make positive changes in their lives and feel better about themselves.
For more information about Kim, please visit: https://www.stableroots.ca/team
Comments