Don’t be fooled, you need this food for your brain

Reaching the midpoint in the semester, you might be wondering if there is any way to improve the efficiency of your study habits.  The truth is that diet can play a huge role in the ability of the brain to store and recall information.  Below I’ve outlined a couple of eating habits (with the help of EatRight.org) that can help improve memory and possibly boost your test-taking potential.

Firstly, the human brain is powered primarily by glucose, which is obtained from carbohydrate foods, or from the small amount of glycogen (stored glucose) in the brain kept “in case of emergency.”  This is why your head might feel kind of foggy if you are on a low carbohydrate diet.  So don’t starve your brain by completely cutting out carbs.

Secondly, there are several nutrients necessary for the brain to function well, but perhaps one of the most notable is omega-3 fatty acids.  These are often referred to as the “good fats.”  These can be obtained through incorporating algae, fatty fish (like salmon), and other seafood into your diet.  Supplements are also available, but always be sure to discuss these with a dietitian or doctor before starting a new supplement.  Many people have also found that walnuts serve as a super food for brain function, helping to improve memory and recall, likely due to the fact that they also have healthy fats in them.

And no health and nutrition article can go without mentioning fruits and veggies.  These are also important for the powerful phytochemicals they contain that help the brain to work at its best.  Lots of leafy greens, and berries in particular have shown positive effects in memory and brain function.