
The brain controls the entire body and acts as a control centre. You need to feed it well, which included consuming foods for brainpower. The brain performs many functions like keeping our breathing in control, keep our heart beating, allowing us to think and feel, and assisting our movement. Having certain foods are necessary for the healthy functioning of the brain. Some food items may have a short-term impact or a long term.
Below are 20 foods that will help you to improve your concentration:
1. Blueberries
Blueberries are rich in antioxidants and delicious, but they improve the memory too. Studies show that they boost the concentration for up to five hours as they help in the regulation of blood and oxygen to the brain. They contain antioxidants like proanthocyanidins, anthocyanin, tannins, and resveratrol which are beneficial. Also, another study has shown that people who drank blueberry juice every day for two months had a positive improvement in their learning performance.
2. Oatmeal
It is crucial to start your day with a healthy breakfast. People who have breakfast everyday have less risk of hypertension, diabetes, and obesity as compared to people who skip it. This helps them to fight hunger and stay focused. It is advised to have oatmeal as it is low in calories and helps you feel full for a long time. Load it with fruits for sweetness.
3. Green Tea
If you are exhausted by mid-day, don’t rush to coffee for the solution. Too much consumption of coffee can cause headaches and hamper concentration. Green tea is considered as a healthy alternative to coffee. It contains a moderate amount of caffeine which helps you stay focused, and L-Theanine which increases alpha-wave activity, thereby leading to increasing tranquility. Caffeine and L-Theanine combined help in the improvement of speed and accuracy and increases the concentration.
4. Bananas
When you are in a hurry, don’t forget to grab a banana. They are sweet and can help boost your concentration. According to a study, students who ate a banana before taking an exam performed better than those who didn’t. They are rich in potassium which keeps your brain, heart, and nerves in shape.
5. Water
Sometimes, all you need is a glass of water to kick-start your day. Dehydration can cause fatigue, and if you reach for an energy drink, it will dehydrate you further. Water gives energy for all the brain functions including memory and thought processes. Drinking two to three litres of everyday is necessary.
6. Beetroot
Beetroot is known for promoting better memory and focused attention. They contain nitrates that dilate blood vessels, increasing oxygen and blood flow to the brain, and improving mental performance. You can add them to juices and salads for better functioning of the brain.
7. Eggs
You shouldn’t ditch egg yolks while consuming the eggs. Whole eggs are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids which has a positive effect on your mood and memory. They also have a compound called choline which helps to maintain a healthy brain cell membrane.
8. Spinach
Spinach is a dark green leafy vegetable known as brain food. They are loaded with folate, beta-carotene, and lutein which prevents dementia. It is full of Vitamin B, which is proven to help concentration, memory, and brain power and health. They contain folic acid which improves mental clarity.
10. Flax Seeds
Flax Seeds are high in Vitamin B, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, fibre, and magnesium. These are said to help with mental clarity, weight loss, and improving concentration. Grind them before consuming them so that your body can digest it properly. Include them in yogurt, salads, cereals, oatmeal, and more.
11. Nuts
Nuts have a long-term positive impact on the body. They are a good source of antioxidants and Vitamin E. They are rich with essential oils and amino acids which help to improve concentration.
12. Salmon
Salmon is a rich source of Omega-3 fatty acids which rebuilds brain cells, strengthen the synapses in the brain related to memory, and slow cognitive decline. They contain amino acids, a protein which keeps your brain sharp and focused. They have also been proven to improve mood and concentration.
13. Whole Grains
One of the major reasons that you lack mental awareness and have a hazy memory is that your brain doesn’t get enough energy. Including whole grains in your diet provides sufficient energy to the brain. Include them in cereals and oatmeal to have enough glucose.
14. Black Currents
Black Currents are the best source of Vitamin C. It promotes healthy mental functioning. Deficiency of Vitamin C increases age-related issues including dementia.
15. Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene, an antioxidant which prevents our brain from free radicals that harm it. Since it protects the brain, lycopene improves concentration, memory, and cognitive function.
16. Coconut
Consumption of coconut in any form boosts the brain health. It helps to maintain psychological health. Having coconut water daily helps in dealing with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.
17. Chamomile Tea
Chamomile Tea helps you sleep better during the winter season. It also helps to boost the cognitive abilities which make you focus during exams or working hours. It contains vitamins to improve focus, and also considered as the best brain food.
18. Olive Oil
Olive oil is full of antioxidants which helps to improve memory. Polyphenols, an antioxidant present helps in improving the memory and enhancing learning ability. It also helps in reversing age-related diseases. It also helps the body to fight against ADDLs, proteins that act as toxins for the brain.
19. Turmeric
Turmeric is a spice which has a lot of health benefits. They are used in various medicines. They have healing properties too. They contain curcumin, a chemical compound which is an anti-inflammatory agent. It also promotes the flow of oxygen to the brain.
20. Black Beans
Black beans are an inexpensive source of protein. They contain folate and magnesium that reverse the effects of Alzheimer’s disease. They improve memory and help in the development of the brain. They are considered as a brain superfood by maintaining blood flow to the brain.
21. Pumpkin Seeds
Pumpkin Seeds are rich in Zinc, which promote learning capacity and memory efficiency. They contain tryptophan, Vitamin B, and magnesium which help in relieving stress and improving the mood.