Is it possible to snack your way to a healthier brain? We think so. Nutrient-rich foods can help eliminate brain fog, boost mental energy and sharpen focus. Here’s our choice for the seven best brain foods and some snack ideas.
Berries
The antioxidants and phytonutrients in berries have been linked to improvements in thinking, learning and memory as well as the reduction in oxidative stress which can cause illness and age-related diseases. The antioxidants in berries may stimulate the flow of blood and oxygen to the brain to help you maintain your focus. Consider snacking on wholesome berry snacks like Aroniaberry Gummy Chews and drinking juice made from concentrated berry juice like Aroniaberry Concentrate which is made from 100% Aroniaberries.
Beets
Beets contain nitrates which help your brain health by dilating blood vessels and increasing blood flow. Beets also boost energy and performance which comes in handy during marathon study sessions. Consider snacking on chips made from beets or drinking a beet juice shot. Superberries Aroniaberry+ Daily Wellness Shots also have some of the same nutritional benefits of beet shots.
Walnuts
The of alpha-linolenic acid and omega-3 fatty acid in walnuts gives this nut much of its brain power. Think of this fatty acid like motor oil that keeps your brain's engine humming. Walnuts also contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, which keep the brain from cognitive and degenerative decline. It only takes about seven walnuts a day to keep your brain tuned up. Consider snacking on nuts, in a trail mix or mixing chopped walnuts into yogurt.
Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is chockful of flavonols which gives it its brain health benefits like increasing blood flow to the brain. It also contains caffeine that helps boost energy during the toughest study sessions. To get the optimum benefits of dark chocolate, make sure your chocolate is 75% cacao or greater. The darker the chocolate, the more the brain benefits.
Kale
Leafy green kale is rich in vitamin E, folic acid, vitamin K1, lutein and beta-carotene. Research has shown that these nutrients play a role in protecting the brain from inflammation which can cause damage to the brain. Kale also reduces the accumulation of toxic proteins such as beta-amyloid which can lead to age-related diseases like dementia and Alzheimer’s. Consider snacking on a salad or kale chips to get the benefit of this food.
Garbanzo Beans (Chickpeas)
Garbanzo beans are a great source of magnesium. Magnesium citrate benefits brain function and the speed at which the brain transmits messages. Magnesium also relaxes the blood vessels, allowing more blood flow to the brain. A great way to enjoy garbanzo beans is in hummus or in a roasted garbanzo bean recipe.
Quinoa
This superfood has a funny name, pronounced "keen-wah," but there's nothing funny about the nutrients it delivers. It is gluten-free, high in protein and contains all nine essential amino acids that the body can't produce, but needs. One of those is lysine, which may play a role in regulating stress and anxiety. It is also high in B vitamins, iron, potassium, calcium, vitamin E and lots of antioxidants. Look for breakfast or snack bars containing quinoa.
These foods should help you feel more focused and energized. We hope this list will help you increase your brain power and take your studying to the next level. Also, read our collection of over 100 other best brain food snacks:
