Having trouble concentrating? Snacking might be the perfect solution. It's not just a matter of being distracted when you're hungry - the types of food you eat can have a huge impact on how easy it is to focus. Here are some foods you can eat that will make your brain work like a well-oiled machine:
1. Blueberries
Blueberries have actually been linked to improved memory functions. According to the journal Nutrition, after drinking a blueberry beverage, children are able to more easily recall a previously memorized set of words. In addition to the memory benefits, blueberries (and most other berries) are antioxidant-rich as well.
2. Fish
Fish has a reputation for being brain food, and it's well-earned. Fish is full of omega-3 fatty acids, which come with many health benefits for the entire body. As far as the brain is concerned, these fatty acids have been linked to lower rates of dementia and stroke, and enhanced memory. When choosing a type of fish, you should be looking specifically for fatty fish, such as salmon or herring. Lower-fat fish, like tilapia, don't have as many omega-3 fatty acids, so it won't give you all of the great benefits.
Salmon has a high concentration of brain-boosting omega-3 fatty acids.
3. Green Tea
Green tea has body-wide benefits, as well as qualities that make it particularly good for the brain. Green tea contains some caffeine for short-term bursts of energy. It also has the amino acid theanine, which is a particularly good for your brain. Theanine improves alertness and focus, which, combined with the caffeine, makes green tea the perfect beverage for tough jobs or serious study sessions.
4. Nuts
Nuts are full of vitamin E, which has been linked to reducing the affects of aging on cognition. Nuts also have essential oils and antioxidants what will improve your health overall. You don't need to eat lots of nuts to get these benefits - an ounce per day is plenty enough to give your brain a boost.
5. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is good for your brain in a few different ways. Its caffeine content makes it the perfect snack when you need a quick concentration aid. It's chocolate's long-term benefits, however, that should really have you reaching for the candy bars. Chocolate is full of antioxidants, which help your body protect itself from cell-damaging free radicals. This means that having a moderate amount of dark chocolate may actually make you healthier with time. That said, chocolate is high in sugar and fat, so there's an emphasis on "moderate amount."
6. Water
If you've got a case of brain fog, water might be the answer. Most people don't drink enough water, which means they're usually at least a little dehydrated. This can cause headaches, tiredness and - you guessed it - reduced concentration. Next time you're struggling to stay on task, drink a glass of cool water and give yourself some time. The odds are good you'll get a boost of energy. If you drink the recommended eight cups a day, you'll find yourself having improved focus overall.
7. Caffeine
It probably doesn't come as any surprise that caffeine boosts your focus and concentration. It needs to be used carefully, however. You can have too much of a good thing. Overdosing on caffeine will leave you jittery and likely more distracted than you were before. Moderate your caffeine consumption, and be aware that it's a short-term solution. You're effectively borrowing energy from later on, so be prepared for a crash. Additionally, don't drink caffeine too close to bed time, or you may find it hard to doze off.