Enhanced with Minerals for Taste

13 Foods That Will Make You Smarter

Not that eating any or all of these foods alone will make you smarter, but, combined with regular study habits, these foods have been shown to increase focus, concentration, reaction time, and retention by keeping neural pathways in the brain healthy and high-functioning.

Fats include foods that supply fatty acids essential to the neurochemical process. Specifically, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids are considered “brain food.”

• Seeds, like flaxseeds and pumpkin seeds are loaded with fiber and omega 3 fatty acids.
• Nuts, such as walnuts and almonds, are also high in essential fatty acids and fiber. Fresh coconut is also a winner.
• Avocados not only taste great, they’re versatile and filling (because of their fat content).
• Extra virgin olive oil, or EVOO if you’re a Rachael Ray fan, should be your primary cooking seasoning (thanks Jon!) oil. However, cold pressed oils of some nuts and seeds are high in omega 3’s as well.
• Cold water fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, herring, and sardines are great substitutes for high protein yet high saturated fat red meat.

Proteins not only help you build strong muscles, they supply the amino acids that are essential to brain health.

• Nuts, Seeds, and whole grains also provide a great source of protein and hence, the amino acids needed in neurotransmitter production.
• Eggs contain a healthy dose of protein and are chock-full of the B-vitamin choline - an important precursor to brain neurotransmitters.
• Dried beans like lentils and
• Green leafy vegetables like spinach are rich in protein and free-radical fighting antioxidants.

Carbohydrates have gotten a bad rep over the last several years, but your brain needs them in order to stay alert and energetic. Knowing what carbohydrates your brain needs will put you right in the middle of your learning sweet spot.

• Starchy vegetables like corn, squash, potatoes, and carrots
• Whole grains found in breads, crackers, or cereals

NOTE: The danger with carbohydrates is the spike that occurs in your blood sugar after you eat them. Eating small portions 5-7 times per day can help combat the surge and crash in blood sugar that we all know well. Another way to combat this increase in blood sugar is by eating a protein along side one of the high quality carbohydrates mentioned above. Non-starchy vegetables also help to mitigate the well-known spike in blood sugar. Your mom always told you to eat your broccoli, didn’t she?

Vitamins and Minerals act as antioxidants in the body by scavenging free radicals. In addition, they act to keep the enzymatic reactions of the body in order.

• Fruits in small portions (around 1/2 cup) are a great source of natural vitamins and minerals. Ten servings a day is said to keep cancer at bay.
• Raw or stir-fried vegetables also provide a essential vitamins and minerals. Have fun with the color - you don’t have to stick to green and leafy to get all the nutrients you need.

Learning to eat well is fun on its own accord, but doing so is a great way to sharpen your brain even when your not actively studying. If you’re looking for fun ways to combine many of the ingredients above into great tasting and nutritious meals, I highly recommend Viva la Veggie for recipes, tips, and reviews of great vegetarian dishes.

How about you - have any great “brain food” tips or recipes? Share them in the comments.

Image courtesy of flickr.