There’s no need for a drawn out, eloquently written introduction to set the tone … It’s time to cut to the chase and get down to business. Finals are here! And no matter how prepared you may feel, who couldn’t use an extra boost to help with those long study sessions to come? Preparing for finals can be as simple as snacking away on a few foods known to heighten memory and cognitive functioning. So check out these brain foods you should be consuming while studying for finals.
1. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin seeds contain omega-3 and omega-6, making them a superfood with a calming effect on the brain. They are also known to possess anti-depressant properties by producing GABA, a neurotransmitter that produces a relaxing effect by blocking activating neurotransmitters, something we certainly need during this stressful time of year. Additionally, pumpkin seeds have been proven to assist in memory and thinking skills.
2. Yogurt
Care to be mentally alert? Yogurt is the answer. Amino acids in yogurt help produce neurotransmitters in the brain that results in heightened focus and alertness. A recent study conducted by UCLA also suggests that yogurt helps alleviate anxiety and stress by reducing activity in the emotional region of the brain. Perhaps this superfood will help keep you sane as your study load piles high.
3. Nuts
Cashews. Almonds. Walnuts. You name it! Nuts pack the vitamin E you’ll need to make it through study period. Studies show that vitamin E prevents cognitive decline by fighting memory loss. So when your mind draws a blank during that excruciating chem final…. you’re going to wish you had a bowl of nuts beside you as you crammed. Be sure to also give peanut butter a try. It’s known to manufacture neurotransmitters, chemicals needed for brain cells to communicate.
4. Berries
Who doesn’t love a good berry! They are yet another food that enhance memory function. Blueberries for instance are vital in delaying short-term memory loss. And let’s face it … you’re only attempting to retain your notes up until the final is over. In the long run, consuming berries can help preserve memory capacity as this ability declines with age.
5. Dark Chocolate
Supporting blood circulation in the brain, dark chocolate will make studying for finals all the more enjoyable. Even better, dark chocolate contains phenylethylamine, a chemical that encourages the brain to release endorphins. (Recall Legally Blond: “Endorphins make you happy. Happy people don’t shoot their husbands. They just don’t!” Thank you Elle Woods, thank you!) We could all use an added dose of happiness while mundanely studying away.
6. Whole Grains
With your brain hard at work, it’s going to need energy. Whole grains will do the trick! Focusing for hours on end is going to require a sufficient amount of energy. The brain uses glucose as its fuel, which whole grains can certainly supply. This will allow you to concentrate as you get cracking during study period.
7. Green Tea and Water
With all of these superfoods you’ll be consuming, you’ll surely need your thirst quenched. Water and green tea will come in handy in your quest to improve your cognitive functioning. Water will prevent dehydration, which can impair short-term memory and green tea helps produce brain cells that enhance memory. So keep these beverages at your side.
For a complete list of brain boosting foods and their functions visit:
http://www.liveningup.com/60-brain-boosting-foods-for-memory-cognitive-function/