Meagan Hollman
Studying is hard work. That’s why you need healthy brain food. Show your Utah college classes who’s boss by boosting your brain power with these super powered foods.
Before you turn up your nose at that fishy smell, stop and think about the benefits of eating that juicy salmon filet. Fish contains omega-3 fatty acids which provide oxygen and help maintain healthy brain function. Fish has also been shown to reduce your chances of developing Alzheimer’s disease.
Everybody is talking about this superfood. It’s because this creamy, green fruit is chucked full of monounsaturated fat that reduces blood pressure and supports healthy blood flow leading to the brain. Break out the guacamole and chips for your next study group.
Whole grain bread, brown rice and oatmeal also increase blood flow. And they contain vitamin B6 (thiamine) which is good for memory building. Utah colleges can be tough, but when you eat your oatmeal like your mom always told you to, you’ll fight and conquer.
Whether scrambled or sunny-side up, eggs are a great source of vitamin B12 and choline to help you improve memory. Don’t run out the door to your Utah college until you eat a couple of eggs for breakfast.
Also known as “brain berries,” blueberries protect you from oxidative stress and can help boost your learning capacity and improve memory, as well as reduce your risk for Alzheimer’s or dementia.
These include, but are not limited to, cabbage, kale and spinach. Leafy greens have vitamins B6, B12 and folate and help break down homocystein levels that cause forgetfulness. They’re also loaded with iron, a lack of which can slow down cognition.
Magic beans really do exist! Beans stabilize blood sugar levels and, when paired with rice, provide protein-packed energy for the brain. Put on a pot of chili when you’re studying for possibly the most demanding class your Utah college offers.
Nuts contain omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, folate, vitamin E and vitamin B6. The next time you’re studying for a test, snack on a handful of peanuts, almonds or cashews (but don’t get carried away with the salt). Seeds like pumpkin and sunflower have thiamine and magnesium, great for memory development and cognitive function.
