Sure, we’ve all heard plenty of podcasts and read plenty of articles on superfoods. In this article, we are going to hit on six we believe are unsung heroes in the world of brain health and performance.

Here they come:

1. Cacao

This scrumptious little bean is delectably bitter when eaten roasted (before any sugar is added to produce chocolate). Cacao is an incredible source of antioxidants, polyphenols and fabulous fats. They make a great portable snack on test day, too.

2. Sparkling water

This drink literally effervesces in your system, causing it to awaken. This is doubly true when the water is on the cold side. If you’re looking for a clean and healthy way to perk yourself up as you study, this is your guy.

3. Nutritional yeast

This protein and B-vitamin powerhouse is a beautiful addition to pasta, rice and beans, and a host of other dishes. It adds a nutty cheesiness to any dish and a ton of actionable energy to your neurons.

4. Papaya

Papaya is simply the greatest food on the planet. That’s not subjective at all. Its rich orange flesh provides a plethora of vitamins, fiber, and dense micronutrients to get your cerebral engine revving. Many people don’t realize that its peppery seeds are also terrific sources of fiery energy. Consider blending them into shakes for an extra kick of mental energy.

5. Sardines

Smaller fish have the advantage of providing not only omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids in the appropriate proportions, but also a lower mercury profile than such larger fish as tuna. Sardines, if packaged in extra virgin olive oil, are a badass snack to carry around and whip out when your brain could use a high-five.

6. Oxygen

Ooh, sleeper pick! Oxygen is easily the greatest food alive for your brain. How might you get more of it? A great way to go is to simply fast for longer periods of time. Consider intermittent fasting and other mechanisms for restricting the hours you are asking your body to digest food. While fasting, focus on water intake (which provides a lot of oxygen) as well as very intentional breathing exercises (which both bring in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide, another huge tool for brain efficacy).

There you have it! Eat (or don’t eat) the above foods and just try not to be a rocket scientist.

This entry was posted in Brain Food, BrainStorm’s resource center for parents.
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