10 FOODS THAT BOOST PRODUCTIVITY

June 14, 2020 by Renee Tavoularis

According to nutritional psychiatry, a diet high in processed foods is linked to greater inflammation and oxidative stress, which results in what many of us refer to as “brain fog.” Being highly distractible and having trouble getting work done are common complaints of those experiencing brain fog. Since what you eat has a direct impact on how well your brain—and body—functions, providing it with fuel from whole, colorful, plant-based foods has been shown to improve brain functioning.

Enjoy more energy, clearer thinking, and greater focus by choosing plant foods from this list.

1. AVOCADOS

Avocados are loaded with healthy monounsaturated fats that are essential to healthy blood flow to the brain. These fruits also contain Vitamin K and folate, which aid in important cognitive functions like memory and concentration.

2. BANANAS

Bananas offer a significant dose of glucose that keeps the brain fueled for the day. They are also rich in Vitamin B6, which has been linked to improved verbal memory, verbal fluency, and executive functioning skills.

3. BEETS

Beets contain nitrates that increase blood flow to the brain, ensuring that you’re mentally alert and capable of functioning on all cylinders. These nutritious root vegetables are also a great source of antioxidants that prevent inflammation in the brain.

4. BERRIES

A diet rich in blueberries, strawberries, raspberries and others has been shown to decrease cognitive decline involving memory and focus. Berries are loaded with antioxidants, like Vitamin C, which protect the brain from free radical damage.

5. WHOLE GRAINS

Unlike their refined counterparts, whole grains deliver a steady source of energy from their nutrient profile. Whole grains like oats, quinoa, and barley are also rich in folic acid, which is vital to DNA formation and cellular detoxification.

6. COFFEE

The caffeine content in coffee acts as brain stimulant by enhancing memory and productivity for those who experience “brain fog.” Coffee also contains anti-inflammatory nutrients called polyphenols which suppresses neuro-inflammation and promotes learning.

7. DARK CHOCOLATE

Dark chocolate is another excellent source of the antioxidant compounds, polyphenols. These compounds can reduce blood pressure and promote healthy blood flow for a better functioning brain. You’ll get the most nutrients from dark chocolate varieties with 70 percent or more cocoa content.

8. GREEN, LEAFY VEGETABLES

Kale, Swiss chard, spinach, and other greens are chock-full of Vitamin A, a beta-carotene derivative that protects brain cells from free radicals that cause cognitive decline. These green vegetables are also a natural source of folate that promotes greater cognitive functioning.

9. OLIVE OIL

Extra virgin olive oil offers a wide range of brain-friendly benefits, such as improving learning and memory. These benefits arise from nutrients like polyphenols that offer antioxidant protection and monounsaturated fat that has been shown to actually reverse brain aging.

10. WALNUTS

One type of omega-3 fatty acids, DHA (docosahexaenoic acid), is abundant in the cell membranes in the brain. Our bodies are unable to synthesize this essential fatty acid, though, so we must get it from dietary sources like walnuts. Omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to improve cognitive functioning in the areas of memory and mental performance.
Printer Friendly