These days, there are many snacks that market themselves as ‘brain foods,’ some of which are just driven by profit and are not actually good foods for the brain.
Instead of loading yourself with lots of sugar when you find yourself very drained at work, how about munching on these simple snacks that are filled with vitamins and antioxidants can help sharpen your mind.
1 Walnuts
All nuts are good for your health. Walnuts are the best among nuts in improving cognitive function. They have the same nutrients as every other nut plus they contain omega-3 fatty acids that give sharper memory for women. The Vitamin E in walnuts can also help slow mental decline.
2 Tomatoes
Tomatoes are not just packed with antioxidants, they also contain lycopene. Lycopene is good for genes in the brain that promotes brain growth. They also protect the brain from radical damage, promotes optimal brain function and slow development of Alzheimer’s. How about some cherry tomatoes for a quick office snack?
3 Raisins
These sweet little snacks are a big help to your brain function. Raisins have high levels of boron which can improve short-term memory and hand-eye coordination. Raisins also help prevent Vitamin D deficiency.
4 Almonds
Like walnuts, almonds also contain omega 3. Most, importantly almonds are known as memory-enhancing food. If you find yourself easily forgetting a lot of things, try to add almonds in your snack bag.
5 Strawberries
Strawberries are found to help prevent age-related memory loss and might help slow the progress of Alzheimer’s. Another reason you should start snacking on strawberries is, they contain high levels of potassium.
6 Chia
These seeds are packed with amino acids that are necessary for brain functions and for keeping your mood stable. They are also rich in DHA.
7 Blueberries
Blueberries are filled with antioxidants that help detoxify your body. There are many studies that highlight the benefits of blueberries for the brain. They are proven to improve cognition and memory function.
8 Dark Chocolate
Yup, that ‘chocolate is good for your memory’ is not a myth. Among all types of chocolates, dark chocolates have the highest benefits for the brain. Chocolates have flavonoids which help improve mood memory, focus, and attention. There are also studies which claim that consuming chocolates can reduce risks of cerebral infarction and stroke.
9 Whole Grains
Chips, crackers—just anything whole grain. Whole grain snacks supply energy to the brain in form of glucose. These can help you concentrate more and prevent brain fog. As a bonus, it is also good for the heart.
10 Broccoli
Broccoli contains a lot of Vitamin K, which helps strengthen cognitive function and Choline, which improves your memory. You can do anything with it—roast, steam, sauté, or you can just chop and eat them raw at the office.
Surely, you find something you love to eat on the list. Next time you feel your stomach protesting while at the office, you can try these snack instead of cakes or junk food. They do not just fill your stomach, they can also fuel your brain.