As midterms and exams roll around, so do late nights of studying and cramming. When you’re up at 2 a.m. and you start to lose concentration and control of your grumbling stomach, instead of grabbing the pack of Oreos to curb your hunger, you should think about the “smart” foods and beverages that can help you concentrate. Most of us have heard “you are what you eat,” so find the foods to help you grow healthy mentally and physically. “Smart” foods and beverages have been found to increase short-term memory and help students concentrate in classes.
Caffeine:
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Everything in moderation ladies – caffeine is found in coffee, tea, and chocolate (I recommend dark). It is not bad to have a cup of coffee, just avoid dependency. The Daily Mind says, “Coffee has caffeine and antioxidants that, when combined, improve alertness and as such concentration and better information retention.” So caffeine can most definitely help you during your late night study fests. However the Daily Mind also points out that the more you drink the less effective caffeine will become. Try having caffeine only when you really in need.
Blueberries:
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Blueberries are filled with antioxidants! Medline Plus defines antioxidants as substances that guard your cells from free radicals, which damage cells. Nobody wants dead brain cells, so eat up girls! Blueberries improve memory and motor skills and also improve your balance and coordination. Although blueberries are not in season right now, you can still buy frozen ones and make a yummy smoothie!
Salmon:
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Yay for omega-3 fatty acids! Salmon is packed full of them, which help enhance your memory according to WebMd. Don’t let the word “fatty” scare you, these fats are good for you and give you brainpower. Salmon is also a great source of protein to help you build muscle and stay energized throughout the day. Eating salmon in the morning with some eggs and whole wheat bread is a great way to start your day of class and studying.
Whole Grain:
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Whole grain foods come with many great benefits for your body, including helping jump-start your brain cells. According to WebMD, whole grains help lower cholesterol to enhance blood flow resulting in a, “tasty way to fire up brain cells.” You can find delicious whole grain oatmeal to cook up for breakfast, or make a whole grain pita sandwich for a late night snack at the library. Either way you will be improving your body and mind by eating whole grains.
Hot Cocoa:
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(cookingrecipesguide)
Best for last! Hot chocolate season is right around the corner and now you can drink it to stimulate your brain! In a study by Chang Young Lee, professor of food chemistry at Cornell University, he found that the antioxidant content of two tablespoons of pure cocoa powder is “almost two times stronger than red wine, two to three times stronger than green tea and four to five times stronger than that of black tea.” That’s a lot of antioxidants to help your brain cells and stress levels. Once again, everything in moderation – don’t go cocoa overboard.