Does Brain Food Really Exist?

Doctors and nutritionists alike have long touted the benefits of a balanced diet. But for people suffering fromlack of concentration and hyperactivity, diet is not only important, it iscrucialin helping to manage symptoms.

Whether food sensitivities or lack of nutrients are to blame, theanswer to many health issues may actually reside in a change of diet.

Since manyfood allergy symptomsmimic those found in concentrationand mood disorders, it is a good idea to experiment by eliminating the following foods in the box to the right for approximately 2 weeks to see if any improvement is noticed.

Today’s modern diet often features most of these foods on a daily basis, so you may want totry eliminating them one at a time.Many people have noticed an improvement of symptoms afterreducing or eliminating these foods all togetherfrom their diet.

There are also manyfoods that actuallypromote concentration. Incorporating wild salmon and berries into the diet is a great start. Wild salmon is an excellent source of the omega-3 fatty acids DHA and EPA, which areessential for brain growth and optimal function. Recent research has also shown that people who get more of these healthy fatty acids in their diet have sharper minds and perform better at mental skills tests.

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Assleep also plays a big role in optimum brain functioning, adding in chamomile tea, warm milk, eat turkey, bananas, figs, dates, yogurt, milk, tuna, and whole grain crackers or nut butter can help. These foods are high in tryptophan, which promotes sleep.

Foods to avoidinclude bacon, cheese, chocolate, eggplant, ham, potatoes, sauerkraut, sugar, sausage, spinach, tomatoes, and wine close to bedtime. These foods contain tyramine, which increases the release of norepinephrine, a brain stimulant.

Acai berries, strawberries, cherries, blueberries, and blackberries are also notorious for theirbrain-boosting properties. A good rule of thumb: the more intense the color, the more nutrition in the berries. Berries also boast high levels of antioxidants, especially vitamin C, which not only supports the immune system, but is also said to help prevent cancer.

As always, natural remedies can add the extra support needed when a healthy diet is not enough. Herbs have been used for many years topromote concentration, memory and focus, as well as to balance the nervous and circulatory systems. Restoring balance to our bodies is the key to well-rounded health and vitality.