They say hindsight is 20/20 but in the new year, we’re looking ahead instead of behind us. Many are referring to 2020 as the “The Year of Focus”. When we have perfect eyesight, meaning everything can be seen clearly whether it’s near or far, it’s called 20/20 vision. Here are some tips to improve your overall focus so you can achieve more in the year ahead.
Studies have proven that what you eat, and drink can have a major effect on your ability to focus and the level at which your body and brain function throughout your day. Caffeine is beneficial for focus because it makes you more alert after you eat, drink, or take it. It stimulates the body’s central nervous system and boosts the brain’s production of dopamine; a neurochemical which controls the ability to focus and maintain concentration. The only issue with caffeine is that being alert from it is an overall short-term effect and people tend to over-take it. Sugar can do the same; like caffeine, sugar makes you more alert, and increases your short-term memory ability. Too much sugar can impair your memory and has long term effects like heart disease. Both caffeine and sugar should be enjoyed in moderation.
If you want healthier alternatives, we recommend that you eat whole grain, fiber-rich foods. Eat breakfast even when you aren’t hungry. After a long night without eating, breakfast sets up the rest of your day and gives your brain energy to focus. While a high calorie breakfast is not healthy, having a breakfast rich in fiber, whole grains, dairy, and fruits will keep you satisfied, energized, and alert.
What you should eat;
- We recommend putting more fish in your diet! Fish is rich in Omega-3 fatty acids and plays a major role in brain health. Omega-3’s keeps your memory sharp as you age and are linked to a lower risk of brain disease.
- Grab some blueberries! Blueberries improve learning and muscle function. Blueberries may help protect the brain from damage caused by free radicals and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions.
- Chocolate and nuts! Yes, we said it! Dark chocolate and nuts (in moderation of course) are rich with antioxidants that help with cognition as you age. Dark chocolate also contains about 1/8 of the caffeine found in a cup of coffee, so it could give you that little energy boost you need in the afternoon.
There are many other foods that will help keep you focused this 2020. Having a varied and nutrient dense diet, with treats in moderation, is beneficial to overall health and brain function. Try including some of the foods above and see how they affect your focus. You will feel the effects as your diet changes to something more balanced and the benefits for your health and over-all brain function will last the whole year. Let’s stay focused!
Thanks!
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Here is just one example!
Sources:
https://www.webmd.com/add-adhd/ss/slideshow-brain-foods-that-help-you-concentrate
