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Welcome to your MCI Wellbeing Blog for August!
This month, we’re excited to discuss Brain Foods!
Have you ever been trying to study and just can’t focus? Trying to work through assessments and you feel like you can’t retain any information? Diet may be playing a factor in this. We all know the importance of fuelling our bodies well for our physical health. But how much do you think about the importance of fuelling your brain as well? Just like how carbohydrates give our bodies energy, there are lot’s of different “carbohydrates” we can eat to give our minds an energy boost – let’s call these BRAIN FOODS!
When studying, it's important to fuel your brain with foods that provide sustained energy, improve focus, and support cognitive function.
10 of the best foods to eat to help you study effectively:
1. Complex Carbohydrates: Foods like whole grains (e.g., oats, whole wheat), brown rice, quinoa, and sweet potatoes provide a steady release of glucose, which is the brain's primary energy source.
- 2. Fatty Fish: Salmon, trout, and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for brain function and can improve cognitive performance.
- 3. Blueberries: Packed with antioxidants, blueberries can help improve memory and cognitive function.
- 4. Dark Chocolate (yum!): Contains caffeine and antioxidants that can improve focus and concentration. Opt for dark chocolate with high cocoa content.
- 5. Nuts and Seeds: Almonds, walnuts, flaxseeds, and chia seeds are rich in nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and vitamin E, which support brain health.
- 6. Avocados: Rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, avocados can enhance brain function and improve concentration. It’s not the unofficial breakfast of the country for no reason!
- 7. Leafy Greens: Vegetables like spinach, kale, and broccoli are high in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support brain health and cognitive function.
- 8. Eggs: Rich in choline, which is important for memory and brain development. Eggs also provide high-quality protein.
- 9.Turmeric: Contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that may improve memory and mood.
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- 10. Coffee: In great news for coffee lovers – caffeine is better source of brain power than you might think! The caffeine in your morning cup of coffee or tea might offer more than just a short-term concentration boost. In a study published in The Journal of Nutrition, participants with higher caffeine consumption scored better on tests of mental function. Caffeine might also help solidify new memories, according to other research. Investigators at Johns Hopkins University asked participants to study a series of images and then take either a placebo or a 200-milligram caffeine tablet. More members of the caffeine group were able to correctly identify the images on the following day. So you find yourself craving that extra cup of coffee – treat yourself! You will satisfy your craving AND your mind!
So next time you're reaching for a snack to help get through your studies, think about trying one of these brainfoods, and see if you notice a difference in the quality of your study time! Why not whip yourself up a blueberry smoothie? Perhaps a spinach omelette is more your scene? I know which brainfood I’ll definitely be reaching for – dark chocolate!
Need assistance as a student at MCI?
Do you require assistance with your studies at MCI? Do you need a role play partner? Be reminded, to please reach out to your mentor.
Finally, you always have the option and are encouraged to interact with other students by joining the MCI Student Facebook page.
