The Top Brain Foods That Will Help You Focus

Have you ever heard the saying, you are what you eat? It turns out that what you eat has a profound effect on how you think, work and feel. Food is the fuel that keeps us going throughout the day. Not only does it fuel your energy, but it has a profound effect on how you perform academically.

Do you ever have trouble concentrating or paying attention? Do you find yourself drifting off in the middle of class, unable to grasp at what you're learning?

We've put together a list of the top foods that can help you incorporate healthy foods into your daily diet.

Dark Chocolate

It might come as a surprise to hear this, but chocolate has been proven to heighten mental alertness. We don't mean the milky, sweet kind of chocolate. Dark chocolate contains magnesium which releases endorphins and serotonin which heighten mood. It also helps de-stress, which can help immensely with boosting focus. Click here for a tasty dark chocolate pomegranate recipe.

Blue Berries

Blue berries have been proven to boost memory and concentration for up to five hours! Blue berries have antioxidants that stimulate the flow of oxygen and blood to your brain, which keeps the mind alert and revitalized. 

Not only do blueberries keep you focused, but they also protect against cancer and other diseases- all the more reason to incorporate them into your diet! Click here for a fantastic blueberry banana bran muffin recipe for that sweet tooth craving.

Green Tea

Green tea has caffeine, which in small doses, can be helpful for staying alert and concentrating on your task at hand. It also contains l-theanine, which is an ingredient that increases tranquility and releases caffeine slowly. Have you ever had a cup of coffee followed by a sudden burst of energy only to find yourself crashing hours later? Green tea is a perfect middle ground for using caffeine in a healthy way to stay focused.

Avocado

This shouldn't come as too much of a surprise, since it seems as though almost everyone is talking about avocados- and, for good reason! All of the organs in our bodies depend on blood flow. Avocados help enhance blood flow, which in turn helps your heart, and your brain. Click here for a healthy avocado salad recipe!

Flax Seeds

Flax seeds contain magnesium, omega-3 fatty acids, fiber and magnesium. All of these ingredients are key to aiding with focus and clarity. Since flax seeds aren't eaten on their own, they're easy to incorporate to your favorite recipes and meals like oatmeal, smoothies, salad and more. Click here for recipes for great ways to incorporate chia and flax seeds into your diet.

Fish

Also known as "brain food", fish should be a key component in your diet if you want to stay sharp and focused. Fish are rich in omega-3 fatty acids which have been linked to a slower mental decline and enhancing memory. These healthy fats are great for keeping your mind active and fresh. Click here for a great tomato basil fish recipe!