Today, I am going to explain how to boost your brain power! Firstly, here is a bit of info about the brain and why you need to feed it! The brain is only the size of a small cauliflower, but it’s the greediest part of the body. Despite only accounting for about 2.5% of our body weight, it guzzles its way through 20% of the kilojoules we consume. There are some important foods that help your brain to work at its very best and also, foods which can help prevent your brain from declining.

- So, I guess what you want to know is how, so here goes...

• Whether eaten at home, in the car or at work itself, breakfast is as important in the working world as during school. Trying to function on thin air is just not giving you the best chance to perform well.

• If morning tea is part of your working day, choose fruit over a muffin, sausage roll or giant cookie from the local café.

• Caffeine-containing drinks, such as coffee and tea, do have a place in the working day. A shot of caffeine will help you through meetings, but plan ahead; caffeine only takes full effect after an hour or so.

• Eating regularly through the day helps to keep your brain topped up with fuel, so make time for lunch. Keep a few ‘emergency supplies’ in your desk drawer for the days you can’t leave the office or have forgotten your lunch. Canned fish, beans, fruit or rice puddings store well, plus crackers, nuts or low-fat muesli bars.

• Avoid chocolate or biscuits mid afternoon when energy levels are waning. If you’ve had lunch, take a walk around the office or some fresh air outside to re-stimulate your brain. A sugar fix is not the cure. If you have skipped lunch, go for a sandwich or fruit for longer lasting energy.
• Lastly, don’t forget omega 3 – it is the brains wonder food! Include oily fish like salmon, sardines and tuna every week. If you don’t like fish, add flaxseed oil to your salad and ground flaxseed to your breakfast or even try adding them to a smoothie.

For more information about what to do eat to keep your brain working at its best... go to www.healthyfood.co.nz, or pick up a copy of Healthy Food Guide magazine, only $5.50 from supermarkets and bookstores.

© Reproduced with permission from Healthy Food Guide magazine. On sale in supermarkets and bookstores for only $5.50. www.healthyfood.co.nz