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No one like studying for a test. The time, the reading, the hoping that your brain is actually taking in all that you need to know to be able to pass the test. There have been many theories over the years about what works to help keep your brain alert and retaining the information you read.
According to the UKMedix blog, one of those ways is to add certain nutrients to our diets. The good thing about many of these is they don’t have to be taken or used just for studying for exams. Some of these have been scientifically proven to provide just the right nutrients to provide the brain boost we need.
Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids, particularly EPA and DHA, are found in certain fish, nuts, and olive oil. Not only are Omega-3’s known for boosting brainpower, but they’ve also been shown to reduce overall test anxiety.
Sources include flaxseed (linseed) oil, soya bean oil, pumpkin seeds, walnut oil, and from the fish side, salmon, trout, mackerel, herring and sardines. Studies have shown that low DHA levels in particular carry an increased risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease and experiencing memory loss.
Whole grains for whole brains
Your brain needs energy every day, not just while studying. Your brain will only be able to to concentrate and focus when it is properly fuelled. Your brain particularly relies on glucose, or the sugar, in your body.
Of course, too much sugar is not good for the rest of the body, and part of the challenge is making sure your brain has enough without overtaxing the body, and balancing blood sugar levels over the course of the day.
Whole grains such as wheatbran, whole grain cereals and breads and pastas, have a low-GI, which means they release glucose slowly into the bloodstream. This means your blood sugar levels will stay steadier and you will be able to keep studying longer. This is the direct opposite effect of refined carbs such as white bread and pasta, which can make you drowsy and unable to concentrate — which you definitely don’t want.
Get your vitamin C
Our mothers have always pestered us about making sure we get enough vitamin C to keep our bodies healthy and avoiding sickness. But vitamin C, according to a Phoenix testosterone expert, is also known to increase mental agility and and sexual vitality. One of the best ways to get your vitamin C is through berries — blueberries, blackcurrants, cherries, raspberries, cranberries, blackberries, grapes, and even gooseberries.
These berries reduce the level of toxins in your bloodstream, and also provide your body with phytonutrients and antioxidants which improve the flow of blood to the brain which in turn boosts the efficiency of neural activity.
Anti-stress vitamins are also brain vitamins
Vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid are known to help the body respond to stress, but they also reduce levels of homocysteine in the blood.
Homocysteine is an amino acid that helps your body build proteins. Too much of this amino acid, however, can interfere with the body’s natural processes. Studies have linked higher levels of homocysteine in the blood with increased risk of stroke, cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease.
These vitamins are best used throughout the school year and not just once in awhile.
Get your veggies
The group of veggies known as “cruciferous vegetables” are known to contain vitamin K and other vitamins and nutrients which have been shown to enhance cognitive function and improve brainpower. Such vegetables include broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, brussels sprouts, and bok choy.
Eating them raw is best, although steaming is also known to enhance flavor. The key is to not cook them too long. Also, fresh is always better, but they must be written shortly after being picked. The longer they stay in your fridge uneaten, the more nutrients are lost. Fresh frozen varieties hold the nutrients longer and are often a good alternative if fresh is not available.
These are just a few of the powerhouse foods out there than can lend a hand while studying and our normal daily activities as well. Making sure your brain has what it needs helps you concentrate and remember what you’ve learned, and will help you perform better in activities that require retention and recollection of information.