5 snacks that sharpen your mind
What's the story
In today's fast-paced world, staying focused and mentally sharp is important. While several factors contribute to our cognitive performance, our diet remains a key factor. Some snacks can help improve your concentration and mental sharpness without requiring elaborate recipes or hard-to-find ingredients. Here are five easy-to-make snacks that can improve your focus and mental clarity, making them ideal for work breaks or study sessions.
Drive 1
Nuts and seeds mix
Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants and vitamin E, nuts and seeds are great for brain health. A simple combination of almonds, walnuts, sunflower and pumpkin seeds, can give an instant boost of energy while improving cognitive function. Not only are these snacks easy to make in advance, you can easily carry them with you during the day.
Drive 2
Dark chocolate pieces
Dark chocolate also contains flavonoids that increase blood flow to the brain, improving memory and attention span. Go for dark chocolate having at least 70% cocoa content for maximum benefits. Eating small pieces during breaks could keep you alert without leading to a sugar crash later on.
Drive 3
Fresh berries bowl
Berries such as blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are loaded with antioxidants that protect brain cells from damage. They also contain vitamins C and K, and fiber, which boosts overall health. A bowl of fresh berries make for an excellent snacking option that is delicious and good for mental clarity.
Drive 4
Whole grain crackers with avocado
Pairing whole grain crackers with avocado gives you a nutritious snack of healthy fats and complex carbohydrates, keeping you energized for hours. Avocado, which is high in monounsaturated fats, increases healthy blood flow to the brain. Meanwhile, whole grains deliver the required fiber for a consistent glucose supply, which is essential for keeping you focused and mentally active throughout the day.
Drive 5
Greek yogurt with honey
Greek yogurt is loaded with protein, which keeps hunger at bay while supplying amino acids needed to produce neurotransmitters that regulate mood, among other cognition-boosting functions directly or indirectly. Adding honey not only sweetens but also supplies natural sugars that our brains require during intense periods demanding heightened awareness, like studying sessions, etc.