Monday, July 18, 2011

Top 10 Brain Foods for the Entrepreneur

Need some food for thought?  Sometimes, we entrepreneurs just need something to nibble on throughout the day. But before you open the fridge and crack open a Coke or dig your hand into a Lay's Potato Chip bag, you may want to take a look at the Top 10 brain foods for entrepreneurs: 
1.  Blueberries
Blueberries contain a certain antioxidant that prevents oxidative stress.  If blueberries aren't on hand, many other fruits provide these antioxidants.  An easy way to add fruits into your diet is by drinking smoothies and shakes or putting fruit in your yogurt or cereal for breakfast.  
2.  Salmon
Salmon is rich in Omega 3 fatty acids and contains anti-inflammatory substances that aid in blood flow and brain activity. This, in turn, enhances memory!  Salmon can keep blood flowing in the smallest capillaries of the brain.  
3.  Seeds & Nuts
Vitamin E boosts brain function and corresponds directly with cognitive increases.  Nuts and seeds do not only offer Vitamin E, but they also contain monounsaturated fat which promotes a healthy heart and blood flow.  
4.  Oatmeal
Oatmeal is good for the heart and good for the brain.  The breakfast food is packed with fiber, protein and even Omega 3's. It's best to start off the day with oatmeal because it will sustain you throughout the morning and well into lunch.  No crash and burn effect here!
5.  Avacados
Avacados contain antioxidants and amino acids that help lower blood pressure and reduce inflammation.  Avacados are also loaded with monounsaturated fat (like seeds and nuts!).  
6.  Dark Chocolate
As we all know, dark chocolate has powerful antioxidants and a bit of caffeine.  Therefore, dark chocolate helps with focus, concentration, and stimulates production of endorphins that help to improve mood.  Want to kick it up a notch?  Try chocolate covered blueberries!   
7.  Tuna
Tuna has the highest level of Vitamin B6 than any other food.  Vitamin B6 relates directly to memory, cognition and long-term brain health.  
8.  Eggs
Eggs have enough protein and fat to give your brain hours and hours of energy.  Additionally, the selenium in organic eggs has been found to improve mood.  
9.  Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene which is an antioxidant that is great for your brain.  The only catch: you have to cook the tomatoes in order to get the lycopene! 
10.  Green Veggies
Eat your greens!  Spinach, kale, chard, romaine, and arugula are high in iron.  Without iron, our bodies will feel fatigue and our moods will decline.  Iron also improves cognitive thinking and memory.
Written by Allison Way
@AllisonThinkBig

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