fbpx

We’ve all had that moment where you get up, walk into a room and just stare into space having completely forgotten why you entered the room and what you were looking for! Whether it’s brain fog, distractions, or just plain forgetfulness, it’s bloomin’ annoying to say the least!

The good news is, there are things we can incorporate into our diets that can help boost our brain power and keep us focused when we need it the most.

Below are some top foods, superfoods and herbs to help keep your brain on top form!

 

Blueberries

Berries, and in particular blueberries, are packed with antioxidants, helping to protect the brain from free radicals, stress and degeneration. Studies have even shown that eating a large portion can boost memory and concentration for up to five hours! Berries also have a low glycaemic load, meaning you won’t get a sugar-crash as the energy they provide our bodies is released slowly and steadily to keep you alert and productive.

 

Omega 3 foods

Foods like walnuts, ground flax, chia and oily fish all contain omega 3, which is an essential fat with anti-inflammatory properties. Omega 3 is vital for supporting brain cell structures, as well as helping in the formation of synapses, which is how different parts of the brain essentially talk to each other.

 

Lions Mane

Lions mane is an ancient mushroom, know for its brain boosting qualities. It’s been found to enhance the production of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF), which is a protein required for the development, maintenance and repair of important neurons. It is rumoured that Buddhist monks even used this mushroom to help concentration during long meditative practices.

 

Dark Chocolate

What better excuse for eating chocolate than for focusing and getting your work done! Dark chocolate contains caffeine, which can help keep you alert and on-the-ball, and flavanols, which are anti-inflammatory and can help boost blood flow to the brain. Just be careful as not all chocolate is created the same… opt for raw and refined-sugar free. If you haven’t tried Ombar, then you are crazy and must head to Whole Foods and buy one immediately!

 

Ginkgo Biloba

Ginkgo comes from the leaf of the Chinese ginkgo tree, which has been praised for its brain- boosting effects for thousands of years. It has been known to enhance circulation, improve the health of blood vessels and is one of the most studied herbal remedies for cognitive problems and Alzheimer’s disease. It has properties that are thought to help combat cognitive decline, fatigue and poor concentration.

 

Avocado

Avocado seems to be a celebrity in the food world at the moment, whether it be smashed on toast or used as the foundation of a chocolate pudding, people are really realising the benefits of this fruit. What’s so exciting is that avocado contains folate and vitamin K, which can help improve memory function as well as concentration.

So there you have it, 6 fantastic foods or herbs that you can include into your daily routine to reduce brain fog and get you working with absolute focus!

words by Jodie Brandman

For more information on herbs for health, or for recipe ideas, visit www.sweetlysimple.co.uk

SHARE THIS STORY