CARLA ROSSER

Feeding Your Brain For Focus

1. Breakfast Is Brain Fuel.

Studies have found that eating breakfast may improve short-term memory and attention. Students who eat it tend to perform better than those who don’t. Foods at the top of researchers’ brain-fuel list include high-fiber whole grains, dairy, and fruits. Just don’t overeat; researchers also found high-calorie breakfasts appear to hinder concentration.

2. Fish Really is Brain Food.

A protein source linked to a great brain boost is fish–rich in omega-3 fatty acids that are key for brain health. These healthy fats have amazing brain power: A diet with higher levels of them has been linked to lower dementia and stroke risks and slower mental decline; plus, they may play a vital role in enhancing memory, especially as we get older.

For brain and heart health, eat two servings of fish weekly. Here is a delicious Herbed Rubbed Salmon recipe to try!

3. Avocados and Whole Grains.

Every organ in the body depends on blood flow, especially the heart and brain. A diet high in whole grains and fruits like avocados can cut the risk of heart disease and lower bad cholesterol. This reduces your risk of plaque buildup and enhances blood flow, offering a simple, tasty way to fire up brain cells.

Whole grains, like popcorn and whole wheat, also contribute dietary fiber and vitamin E. Though avocados have fat, it’s the good-for-you, monounsaturated fat that helps with healthy blood flow.

4. Blueberries Are Super Nutritious

Research in animals shows that blueberries may help protect the brain from the damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease or dementia. Studies also show that diets rich in blueberries improved both the learning and muscle function of aging rats, making them mentally equal to much younger rats.

5. Ginseng

Ginseng can help prevent memory loss and mitigate age-related mental decline. There’s evidence that at least some of ginseng’s cognitive-boosting power is due to its anti-fatigue effects. This makes ginseng a good choice if you want an increase in mental performance and physical energy.

According to the NIH, ginseng is effective in memory improvement, and in the direct prevention of degenerative brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease. The neuroprotective effect of ginseng may be useful in the prevention of depression. Indirectly, enhanced memory can ameliorate anxiety.

Ginseng is a key ingredient in Mind Health and a delicious way to add ginseng to your diet.

Do you have something you do daily to focus on brain health? If so, please share below!

Peppermint Mocha Protein Drink

This Hot Peppermint Mocha protein drink provides all of the nutritional benefits of a protein smoothie but tastes like a decadent hot peppermint mocha. The perfect breakfast for cold winter mornings or snack for an afternoon reading by the fire. Top with a little whipped cream & enjoy!

Ingredients
  

Protein Drink

  • 10 oz almond milk
  • 1 scoop Arbonne Coffee Protein
  • 1 scoop Arbonne Peppermint Mocha Protein
  • 1 tsp vanilla

Dairy Free Whipped Cream

  • 1 can 13-14 oz of full fat coconut milk (found in the baking goods area of grocery store)
  • 2-3 Tbsp confectioners sugar
  • cinnamon, vanilla or any flavor you would like Optional

Instructions
 

Protein Drink

  • Heat almond milk to your preference.
  • Add vanilla and protein powder. Blend with frother for creay results.

Dairy Free Whipped Cream

  • Place can of full fat coconut milk in the the fridge upside down, let it chill overnight.
  • Open the can. Carefully spoon out the top layer of opaque white stuff that has gathered at the top of the can. Spoon into a mixing bowl.
  • Add 2-3 Tbsp of powdered confectioners sugar to the coconut cream. Optional: add cinnamon, vanilla bean – any small amount of flavor you’d like.
  • Grab a hand beater and medium bowl. Whip the coconut milk. Start on low and move to a higher speed, move the beater in an up and down motion to infuse as much air as possible.
  • Top warmed drink with whipped cream and any other toppings. Serve and enjoy!

Notes

  1. If for any reason your whip seems too stiff or dry, you can add a few teaspoons of the leftover coconut liquid or non-dairy milk. If your whip seems too soft or watery, you can add another tablespoon of sugar OR stick your mixture back in the fridge – it may need to firm up again.
  2. Coconut cream is best eaten right after it is whipped as it will lose some fluffiness if you stick it in the fridge to chill. But it actually holds up better than I expected!
 

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