Powerful Food That Boost Brain Function & Increase Concentration : Brain Foods
Article by Medical Zones
We all have the ability to concentrate, yet on some days it can be difficult. People who have problems concentration can be the result of lack of energy, poor dietary choices or a side-effect of some illnesses. You can boost your brain power by feeding your brain “brain foods”.
Certain foods that offer more nutrients to to help boost concentration and protect the brain and keep it functioning optimally, as well. What you eat helps to fuel both your body and your brain, and eating the right foods can boost brain performance, and sharpen memory.
1. Eggs
Eggs are rich in nutrients, containing high quality protein and a wide range of essential vitamins, minerals and trace elements. But there’s moren nutrient called choline, found in eggs, can help to keep the brain healthy and functioning optimally.
Two antioxidants found in egg yolk called lutein and zeaxanthin help prevent the risk of age-related cataracts and macular degeneration, two of the most prevalent age-related eye conditions.
The high protein and low calorie content of eggs make them a perfect brain boosting snack for someone on a diet.
2. Fish
Consuming omega-3 fatty acids in fish aids the brain by increasing brain activity and promoting correct functioning. Fish such as tuna, salmon, mackerel and herring are very good sources of omega-3 fatty acids, so include fish in your diet at least twice a week to improve your memory and concentration powers.
3. Whole grain
Whole grain is a great brain stimulator because it contains high percentage of folate. Make sure you’re eating a diet rich in whole grain breads, cereals, barley, popcorn, etc., because they can boost your blood flow to the brain. Whole grains are also rich in vitamin B6, an important brain vitamin.
4. Blueberries
Blueberries are higher in antioxidants than most foods, and these important chemicals act on free radicals that would harm cells. Experiments conducted on mice showed that blueberries helped brain performance by reducing the amount of oxidative stress, or damage, free radicals caused in brain cells.
In one recent study, subjects who ate one cup of blueberries a day for two weeks showed an increased birth rate of brain cells in the hippocampus (region responsible for memory), and scored significantly higher in classroom tests than those subjects who did not.
5. Avocados
Avocados are full of healthy mono-saturated fats,which contribute to healthy blood flow, the main requirement for a healthy brain. Avocados also has plenty antioxidants, making them a perfect food for improving your concentration.
6. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate has powerful antioxidant properties and contains natural stimulants like caffeine, which increase the production of endorphins while enhancing focus and concentration. The caffeine found in dark chocolate also improve mood. It has high content of flavanols that facilitate blood supply to the brain and enhance cognitive skills.
7. Nuts
Nuts boost your brain power and improve your mood. Nuts are a great source of protein as well as Vitamin A, vitamin E Omega 3 fatty acids and Omega 6 fatty acids. Vitamin A and vitamin E, found in nuts, can help boost the memory center in the brain. Nuts such as, almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts, peanuts, brazil nuts and pecans are an important part of your brain.
8. Sunflower Seeds
Like nuts, many seeds and nuts can boost your mood and brainpower. Sunflower seeds contain tryptophan, an important amino acid that the brain converts to seratonin, which is a natural way to relieve mild depression and insomnia. Additionally, sunflower seeds are high in thiamine, an important B vitamin, which increases memory and cognitive function.
9. Eggplant
Eggplant contains a nutrient called nasunin which keeps our brain sharp by enhancing communication between our brain cells and messenger molecules. It also contains anthocyanin, antioxidant that protects the lipids in brain cell membranes.
10.Gingko Biloba
Ginkgo biloba is believed to increase the blood flow to the brain and increase the oxygen levels, which are good for memory. It also contains antioxidants that neutralize dangerous free radicals. Gingko improves memory and alertness.