Mind Food: Pay Better Attention With a Better Diet
By Genevieve Cunningham
Sometimes it's hard to pay attention. Our minds just aren't clear, no matter what we do. We have a million things floating through, and selecting a single thought and actually giving it our full attention is so difficult. This sensation can happen for a wide variety of reasons, but beyond why it happens, most of us are just looking for a way to make it stop. For a way to concentrate. For a way to improve our minds and boost its health. While there are some obvious ways to do this -- some sleep and mental exercises -- there may be some less obvious ways to do this as well. Like through our food! If you would like to improve the health of your mind, and subsequently your focus too, take a look at these foods to try today.
Dark Chocolate
Who knew chocolate could be so healthy? Dark chocolate -- the bitter, slightly dry kind -- has potential health benefits for the brain. It's full of antioxidants which can protect cells within the body. This includes cells in the mind and heart, which are two big benefits claimed by this dessert food. Indulge on a little piece of dark chocolate every day, and you may be bringing benefits to your body along with satisfying a sweet tooth.
Water
The body is made mostly of water. For the brain, water is needed to keep the synapses healthy. These synapses are responsible for sending messages from one place to another. When they aren't functioning well, your brain and focus suffer. Drink more water to improve their health as well as the brain's health as a whole.
Leafy Greens
It's time to break out the kale. Dark leafy greens bring three big nutrients to the body. Fiber helps with digestion. Vitamin C helps boost the immune system. And Vitamin B has been shown to improve memory and general cognitive function. Throw some dark leafy greens in your salad, and you can cut your calories and improve brain health all at once.
If you're having trouble keeping your mind clear, look no further than your food. Food affects everything, and the mind is no different. With some minor changes, you can improve your diet, your overall health, and the function of your mind for long-term better health.
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Glen Allen, Va.