Best Brain foods

There Really Is Such a Thing as Brain Food
Your brain never stops working, so it's important to provide it with the right nutrients to keep it humming along.
HealthyMonday.org in association with John Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health
Couple about to eat breakfast (© Digital Vision Ltd.)

We all know that the foods we eat affect our bodies. But they may have an even greater impact on our brains. The way we feel and how well we concentrate is all influenced by what we eat.

The brain works all day and all night so it needs the right nutrients to keep us going. The right food can help us concentrate, stay motivated, improve our memory, and even prevent our brains from getting older.

One of the most important ways to feed your brain is to get the right kinds of fats, in the right amount.

Yes, that's right. Fats. Chemicals called fatty acids are actually brain food. The healthiest type of fat is what's called omega-3 fatty acid. Basically, this makes your brain work at its peak. One of the best sources of omega-3 fatty acid is fish. Don’t worry if fish isn’t your favorite food, though. There are plenty of other “brain foods.”

It is important to get enough complex carbohydrates, especially at breakfast time. They give you energy for a long period of time. Avoid things like coffee and sugar that give you a burst of energy but then leave you feeling tired very quickly afterwards.

One of the best sources of complex carbohydrates, especially for breakfast, is fruit. It’s a great source of energy that gets the brain going and keeps your energy levels up all day. Berries and citruses are highest in complex carbohydrates and antioxidants (they fight cancer). Add some protein, such as cereal or whole-wheat toast for a complete and healthy breakfast.

Ideally, a larger lunch is better than a big dinner. Eating a heavy meal before going to bed can actually disrupt your sleep. A lighter meal with help you have a more restful night of sleep. Rely on a good breakfast and lunch to keep you full and going for the day.

In addition to getting the right types of food, it is important to have enough water. Fruit juices and non-caffeinated teas, such as green tea, are also good choices because they relax your brain and actually help you focus. Soda does provide a quick boost of sugar, but that boost doesn’t last long and actually leads to a decline in your ability to focus and think clearly.

Good brain foods include:

Complex carbohydrates, such as spinach, whole grains and grapefruit, can stabilize your blood sugar, which can improve brain function and fends off hunger pangs.

Protein, which breaks down into amino acids in your digestive system, some of which improve alertness and mental agility.

Fats are usually associated with problems like obesity, but some fats are actually good for you. Monounsaturated fat, like in olive oil, can improve blood cholesterol levels, and omega-3 fatty acids, actually improve brain function.

Whole Grains improve cardiovascular health, so you'll be pumping more blood to all your organs, including your brain. On top of that, many breads naturally contain or are enriched with vitamins that enhance mental performance.

Vitamins like folic acid, vitamin B12 and vitamin B6 improve the ability to recall information. Choline, the fat-like B vitamin has been shown to enhance memory and minimize fatigue.

From: MSN

Eat lots of nuts. Wai Lana's got some great juice recipes with nuts in her book. :)