BUY INTO BREAKFAST
Studies show eating breakfast leads to improved mood, enhanced memory, mental performance and concentration. While any breakfast is better than no breakfast it’s thought that breakfast foods which provide a slower more sustained release of blood sugar (glucose) boosts memory and attention. Slow release breakfast foods include oatmeal (not instant), bran cereals, whole grain breads with nuts and seeds, apples, oranges, grapefruit, berries, grapes, pears, milk, yogurt and soy beverages.
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SPEAKING OF OATS
Oats are loaded with soluble, a rockstar when it comes to managing blood sugar levels and fiber to keep your brain and belly . Oats are also a good source of vitamins E and B, potassium and zinc which help brains and bodies function at full capacity. Add in some greek yogurt (protein) and healthy fats (nuts, nut butters, ground flax) to compliment with flavor and function.
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SOMETHING "FISHY"
Fish is “brain food”. Fatty fish like salmon contains omega 3 fatty acids which are essential for brain function. Research demonstrates those who get more of these fatty acids have sharper minds and do better at mental skill testing.
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BEans, beans, the green protein
Beans are rich in complex carbohydrates (slow release), protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals to keep energy and thinking at peak levels. Beans also contain fatty acids. Pinto and kidney beans have higher levels of omega 3 fatty acids than other beans. They are easier on the pocketbook and the planet versus animal sources of protein.
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Be a Veg-Head- Color Your World
Vegetables with rich, deep colors contain antioxidants to keep brain cells strong and healthy. Think color with tomatoes, sweet potatoes, pumpkins, carrots, spinach and other dark green leafy vegetables.
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Berry Good News
Berries with their bright colors are brain boosters. Studies show improvements in memory with extracts of blueberries and strawberries. The seeds from berries are also good sources of omega 3 fats. We can enjoy berries throughout the year because we can find them frozen. Adding them to cereal, yogurt and smoothies are easy ways to work them into your eating plan.
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