Fueling For Finals

I recently took the opportunity to switch divisions within my company to work in higher education.  While I often miss the hustle and bustle of the medical center, I really enjoy being back on a school schedule and working with healthy young individuals who have a thirst for knowledge.  

While many things have changed since I was in college, the importance of eating healthfully and nutritionally remain the same.  

This week I am having an event at lunch time in the dining hall to explain the importance of good nutrition while studying for finals.  I remembered my very neglected blog and decided to share the info with any patient followers. 

If you are taking finals this winter - Make good nutrition part of your study plan to help you ace those exams.  The better the fuel your brain gets, the better you'll study and perform! 

Try these foods to boost your brain function and memory

Eat your veggies: Getting adequate vegetables, especially cruciferous ones like broccoli, cabbage, and dark leafy greens. may help improve memory.  

Try: raw kale salad or broccoli stir fry

Stay sweet with berries and cherries: Berries- especially dark ones (blackberries, blueberries, and cherries) are a rich source of anthocyanins and other flavonoids that may boost memory function. 

Try: frozen or fresh berries for a snack or baked in to an anti-oxidant rich dessert

The good fat: Essential for good brain health, Omega-3 fatty acids, docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) specifically, may help improve memory in health healthy young adults.  According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, DHA is the most abundant fatty acid in the brain.  If you have higher levels of DHA in the blood, then the brain will operate more efficiently.  

Try: seafood, algae, and fatty fish like salmon

Work in walnuts: Well known for a positive impact on heart health, walnuts may also improve working memory.  They also help to satisfy your hunger!

Try: snacking on a handful of walnuts to add them to oatmeal or a salad. 

As always, remember to stay balanced.  Aim for fruits, veggies, dairy, protein, and whole grains in very meal. During this stressful time good nutrition is as important as ever.  

Good luck, good hunting, and bring home the bacon! Happy Studying :)