5 Foods to Boost Brain Power

As the school year draws to an end, it’s important to keep kids focused so that they can finish the year strong. What you eat can influence your brain’s ability to stay sharp. In fact, not only to help you stay sharp and alert, some food may actually help prevent Alzheimer’s disease! Here are some foods you may consider feeding your kids to help boost their brain power.

Omega 3

Your brain is a fatty tissue. In fact, 60% of your brain is made up of fatty acids. It is found that essential fatty acids like omega 3 fatty acids are needed for proper brain development. Omega 3’s like DHA and EPA not only play an important role in brain development, these essential fatty acids are needed to maintain the brain’s performance and functionality. The human body cannot synthesize these essential fatty acids and we must obtain these from our diet. A good source of omega 3 is an oily fish, like mackerel, salmon, sardines and herring. Why not try this super easy Wild Rice & Lentils with Flaked Salmon to add a boost of Omega 3 and help build some brain power.

Green Tea

No, green tea is not a building block of the brain but this powerful antioxidant-rich ingredient can help to deliver more blood to your brain. Green tea improves blood flow and can help your brain perform at its maximum. In addition, the low level of caffeine can also help to improve focus. Just be sure to drink real green tea (brewed from leaves or matcha powder) and not the sugary bottled drinks that is marketed as tea.

Eggs

You would never think eggs are thought to be a brain food but they are. Firstly, a good protein source helps you to feel full and not get distracted during an exam. More importantly, your body requires choline to keep the memory portion of your brain functioning properly; and eggs are great source of choline. So on exam day, pair eggs with lentils for double protein power with this breakfast recipe:  Baked Eggs with Lentils, Peppers and Tomatoes.

Blueberries

As June rolls in, blueberries are starting to be available in grocery stores. Why are blueberries important?  Studies have found that this potent antioxidant fruit actually helps to boost concentration and memory for up to 5 hours after ingestion! This is the perfect food for those long days of exams or studying. Try these Blueberry Oatmeal Lentil Muffins for breakfast this exam season.

Chocolate

When you eat dark chocolate with at least 70% cacao content, it can actually help improve your focus. This is now a good reason to include a small serving of dark chocolate as a school snack. Just remember to always read the ingredient label and look for products with either “cocoa beans” or ”cocoa mass” as the first ingredient rather than sugar.

This year, help your kids finish the school term strong. With the right kinds of food, you can help your kids stay focused longer and hopefully perform better in exams!