The best food to help your kid achieve that A+
What if someone told you at the beginning of the year that in a few months you will be home with your family for 7-8 weeks, what would your reaction be? They would tell you that moms would have to play the role of caretaker, domestic worker, working mommy, chef, entertainer, peace maker and be responsible for the sanity of your family. Dad would stay at home, bound to his home office, taking endless calls and attending loads of virtual meetings. Your kids would celebrate their birthdays without any friends or family around and you would most certainly have to think outside the box. If you heard someone tell you that you would laugh at them and say, “Okay, tell me your next joke”.
Unfortunately, this is our new reality, changing the way we used to do things, creating a new routine for your family and getting used to our new normal.
Some kids have found their way back to school, without a doubt this is a very stressful time for them. The uncertainty they will face daily, the new school rules they would have to get used to, not to mention trying to get their schoolwork back on track.
To help our super mom’s, here are a few ideas for food items that you can stock up on as these foods are described as the best brain foods. These items will help your kid get that A+ they so badly want and help them concentrate and remember all the details.
By now you have most probably emptied all the kitchen cabinets even the places where you would hide the family favourites, all snacks are devoured, and freezers are empty.
1. Blueberries
Not only do these little blue superfoods protect against cancer, heart disease and dementia, they are also proven to boost concentration and memory. Blueberries contain antioxidants that stimulate the blood circulation and oxygen to the brain. These little guys will help you focus throughout your most boring readings, so grab a handful and books!
2. Green Tea
Green tea contains a very important ingredient which is known to increase tranquillity and release caffeine more slowly into your body. Because the caffeine doesn't hit you all at once, you won't feel jittery, instead you'll notice a mild, stable increase of energy. Just the right amount to get you through a long night of studying!
3. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is proven to increase blood circulation in the brain and also contains caffeine, a natural stimulant that will get you through every assigned practice question! Chocolate also releases endorphins into the body which make you feel good, so grab a few squares and get ready to study with a smile on your face!
4. Avocados
Avocados are super good for your health for so many reasons, which makes them one of the best study foods. They are high in fibre, protein, vitamins A, B, C, E, and K... the list goes on. Avocados also contain high quantities of folate, which is essential for cognitive function, memory and overall brain health. Next time you find yourself trying to memorize a stack of cue cards, be sure to make some avocado toast to get you through it!
5. Leafy Greens
Your parents were not wrong when they used to tell you to eat your vegetables (maybe they still do), because leafy greens are superfoods capable of keeping you healthy, focused and more alert. They can also help you recall short and long-term memories and are very high in vitamin K, folate, calcium, and fibre!
6. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon, trout, mackerel, and herring contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids, which when consuming, can lead to higher levels of cognitive function and brain health. The fatty acid targets areas of the brain that are related to memory, decision making, and sensory perception, which makes fish one of the best study foods out there!
7. Flaxseed & Other Nuts
Flaxseed and other nuts are super high in omega-3, fibre, protein, and vitamin B1, which are all essential for brain development and function. These superfoods can be added to yogurt, cereal, oatmeal, salad, and more!
