Proper diet and regular exercise are known to help the brain to function better. Eating healthy by eating a lot of fruits and vegetables is not only good for the body but for the mind as well.
Herewith are some tips on how to keep your brain healthy.
*** One has to start a nutritious breakfast and continue with healthy meals and snacks throughout the day. It helps our brain function better if we have a balanced breakfast not too high in calories, not too high in sugar but balanced with some protein, some fiber and some fat.
*** Eat a balanced diet. The more colors in your meal by eating more fruits and vegetables and cut down on fatty or fried food the better.
*** Foods like blueberries, strawberries, prunes and fatty fish help short term memory. Consume more on these foods by mixing the fruits in cereal, yogurt or pancake and by consuming fatty fish two times a week.
*** Don’t skip meals as much as possible. The body needs regular fueling like an engine to perform well. The brain controls the entire body so one has to eat properly and nutritionally in order to nourish the brain.
*** Do regular exercise because this help to release endorphins, known as ” happy chemicals” which make one to feel better. Endorphins relax the brain and help improve its ability to process data thus it enhances our alertness, concentration and drive. Brisk walking, swimming, biking and even doing vigorous household chores for at least thirty minutes three times a week suffice.
*** Get more of quality sleep time. If you do exercise regularly, it has been proven that it helps people to sleep better. Sleep is the “downtime” of the brain, it rests and processes information you didn’t process consciously. Without sound sleep, your brain suffers, it cannot rest. This usually result in you being unable to think on your feet, makes sound, logical decisions, keep your temper in check or perform any complicated tasks involving muscular coordination. Sleep will help process of what you have studied, than a cramming session can, especially in passing an exam. If you have some rush work to do, at least get some naps for ten to fifteen minutes during your break time in order to energize your brain and body.
*** If you feel hungry between meals go ahead and eat. Just remember that an excess of sugar can actually impair the brain function. Go for healthier options by eating fruits or any nutritional food but not junk food.
*** Nutritionist has cautioned us to avoid high (saturated) fat diets which tend to impair learning and memory. Keep saturated fat not more than ten percent calories of your diet but instead take some “smart” fats for the brain like omega-3 fatty acids that we get it from fish like tuna, salmon, mackerel and sardines and be sure to include them in your menu plan.
