By Frive | 27th February, 2023 | Health & Fitness

In the fast-paced world we live in today, the ability to focus and concentrate has become a significant challenge that many struggle with. However, scientists have discovered that the food you eat can play a key role in keeping your brain healthy. In fact, some foods have been proven to improve specific mental capabilities such as memory and concentration. Our brains are one of our most powerful organs.

It derives most of the nutrients that it needs to thrive from the food we eat. Like most parts of our body, we can strategically hack it to boost its capabilities. By eating foods which have nutrients and vitamins proven to help you focus, our lives can be transformed and how we can see improvement in how we think, feel, and behave. But which foods are best? We spoke to wellbeing expert Jasmine Eskenzi at The Zensory who gives her top five foodie picks.

1. Berries

Blueberries are a powerful focus food, as well as a tasty snack! Scientists have found that some of the antioxidants in blueberries have been found to accumulate in the brain, helping to improve communication between brain cells. Many of these antioxidants come from a group of plant compounds called anthocyanins, which also have anti-inflammatory effects.

2. Dark Chocolate

Yes, chocolate can be good for you! Dark chocolate is packed with brain-boosting compounds, including antioxidants, caffeine, and flavonoids, making it a great work snack. The flavonoids in chocolate gather in the areas of the brain that deal with learning and memory.

3. Eggs

Eggs are a great source of nutritional health however you have them! They are tied to several nutrients including brain health, including vitamins B5 and B12, choline, and folate. Choline is an important micronutrient that your body uses to create acetylcholine, a neurotransmitter that helps regulate memory and mood.

4. Nuts

Go nuts on the nuts, really! Research has shown that eating nuts can improve heart health, and having a healthy heart is linked to having a healthy brain! All nuts are good for your brain health, but walnuts may just have an extra edge! Not only do they look like a brain, they’re also naturally high in Omega-3 fatty acids proven to improve cognitive performance, prevent and improve age-related brain deterioration. So, when you want to focus, keep a bag of walnuts close by to dip into from time to time!

5. Seeds

We’ve all heard that seeds are full of health benefits. Pumpkin seeds, specifically, contain powerful antioxidants that protect the body and brain from free-radical damage. Free radicals can cause damage to parts of cells such as proteins, DNA, and cell membranes by stealing their electrons though a process called oxidation – antioxidants combat this! Pumpkin seeds are rich in many micronutrients that are important for brain function, including copper, iron, zinc, and magnesium. A benefit of this is that they’re known to boost focus! You can also toast them too.

To learn more about ways to help with focus and relaxation have a look at The Zensory.