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Brain boosters

Last updated: 11 Apr 2007

Mood-lifting, brain-boosting foods with special powers!

Superfoods are particular foods that are nutrient dense and packed with minerals. But can what you eat actually lift your mood?

Studies have shown that an intake of essential fats, especially Omega 3 Fats CAN reduce aggression AND enhance mood.

  1. So eat fish oily fish twice a week
  2. Plus 0.5 grams a day of omega 3 rich seeds daily like flax and hemp

High energy levels are also vital for sustaining a better mood and a good energy source is iron but nearly half of women in the UK aren't getting enough of it, and contrary to the bad press red meat gets, lean red meat contains less fat than chicken and contains iron.

  • Folic acid rich foods are also linked to mood enhancing so eat fortified breakfast cereals, black eyed peas, brussel sprouts and oranges

But remember - superfood or not! Food alone can't change your life - a balanced diet, plenty of exercise and stimulation is the only way to achieve optimum health.

BRAIN POWER

Scientific studies have indicated that giving our children fish oil supplements can improve concentration and particularly help those with learning difficulties

  • So it's no surprise that Salmon - a source of Omega 3 has long been given the SUPERFOOD tag because those omega-3 fatty acids are believed to be essential for brain development and function. So for maximum impact, try to eat 2 portions of oily fish every week, and remember eating oily fish in pregnancy makes for brainy babies.

When it comes to brain enhancement the buzzword is something called 'nootropics'. These are substances derived from an amino acid called pyroglutamate which are found in fruit and vegetables, so everything your granny told you about eating your greens could be true!

However - if you really want to achieve optimum mental perform. No superfood alone can wave a magic wand! Regular exercise will stimulate your mind no end and try to cut down on caffeine and sugary refined foods!