‘Tis the season to be healthy! With finals week here approaching, many students are gearing up for the end of the semester and making their way to the library for those all night study sessions and some last minute cramming. We all know that finals are stressful, and sometimes that triggers bad eating habits. But did you know that there are foods that can actually boost brainpower? So instead of reaching for the chips and cookies try one of these brain-boosting treats!
5 brain-boosting snacks:
- Apples have a huge amount of quercetin, which is an antioxidant plant chemical that keeps you on top of your mental game and protects brain cells. They’re also easy to grab when you’re in a hurry.
- Almonds are rich in protein, which is essential for healthy brain function. The brain uses amino acids found in almonds. These chemicals can also boost energy levels and promote mental well-being.
- Just a handful a day of pumpkin seeds can give your daily-recommended amount of zinc. Zinc is essential for enhancing memory and thinking skills.
- Whole grain cereal bars are a fantastic brain stimulator because they contain a high amount of folate and vitamin B6, which is a very important brain vitamin.
5. Dark chocolate is a sweet treat that’s also good for your noggin. It contains powerful antioxidants and natural stimulants that increase the production of endorphins, which ultimately increases focus and concentration.
Healthy snacks can boost your brainpower and increase focus and concentration, but what about brain boosting meals? After a long day of studying there is nothing more satisfying than a delicious and healthy home cooked meal. Here are some quick and easy recipes that you can make in 20 minutes or less!
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Whole wheat pasta with spinach and walnuts
Total Time: 20 minutes
-Cook your desired amount of pasta for around 10-12 minutes, drain, and rinse in cold water.
-Roast walnuts over medium heat for about 2 minutes. Set them aside to cool then give them a quick rough chop.
-Grab a few spinach leaves and roughly chop them
– Combine all of the ingredients into a bowl and toss it up!
-Add 1-2 tablespoons of olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper.
2. Grilled chicken with green beans and toasted almonds
Total cook time: 15 minutes
-Defrost chicken breast for 2-3 minutes
-Add about 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a medium heat pan
-Add canned green beans and chicken to the pan along with a dash of salt and pepper
-Cook until chicken is tender and green beans are browned
Garnish the green beans with slivered almonds
3. Mediterranean Chicken Salad
Total cook time: 12 minutes
-Defrost chicken breast for 2-3 minutes
-Finely chop 1/3 cup of white onions
-Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a medium heat pan
-Combine chicken and onions in the pan, season with salt and pepper
-Cook until the onions are caramelized and chicken is tender.
-Cut the chicken into strips
-Cut up cherry tomatoes, red pepper, and cucumbers
-Combine chicken, mixed greens, onions, olives, and mandarin oranges
-Add balsamic vinaigrette dressing or the dressing of your choice
-Garnish (if desired) with fresh basil or oregano leaves.