Concentration is an essential element for completing any work or task efficiently. However, sometimes it becomes difficult for our brain to stay focused and alert. Numerous factors can distract us, and it can result in an unsuccessful workday.
However, certain foods can help you keep your focus sharp and boost your concentration level. Below is a list of some of the best food items that you can include in your diet to increase your attention span.
1. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is an excellent source of cocoa flavanols, which aid in increasing blood flow to the brain. It also boosts our endorphins, which in turn enhances our learning, memory power, and overall concentration.
Dark chocolate also contains antioxidants which soothe inflammation and guard brain cells from damage and age-related diseases.
2. Nuts
Nuts are another food item that you can include in your diet to aid in concentration. Nuts such as almonds and walnuts are rich in vitamin E, which not only protect our brain cells from damage but also enhance cognitive functioning.
They also contain essential fatty acids that aid in boosting mental alertness and memory power.
3. Blueberries
Blueberries are a great food item to improve cognitive function. They contain flavonoids and antioxidants that enhance brain activity, increase blood flow, and strengthen memory function.
Blueberries also contain a compound called anthocyanins which assist in reducing inflammation and memory decline.
4. Green Tea
Green tea is another item that contains L-theanine- a crucial amino acid that is responsible for reducing mental fatigue and stress levels. Green tea also enhances the level of dopamine in the brain, aiding in concentration and working memory.
It is also a great source of antioxidants that help protect the brain from age-related diseases and improve endorphin levels, thus making you feel better overall.
5. Oily Fish
Fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and sardines contain docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) which is vital for our brain cells’ growth and function. DHA also helps in boosting our thinking skills, memory power, and attention span.
Hence, having fish in your diet twice a week can improve your concentration levels, making your brain more alert and active.
6. Eggs
Eggs are a great source of choline, which is a crucial nutrient required for brain functioning and the synthesis of acetylcholine- a neurotransmitter responsible for alertness and memory.
Moreover, eggs also consist of protein that breaks down into amino acid tyrosine that helps to produce dopamine which is essential for an active brain. Thus, having eggs for breakfast can help you stay concentrated throughout the day.
7. Turmeric
Turmeric is a fantastic spice item that can improve brain health and cognitive function.
It contains curcumin, an active compound responsible for lowering inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to better memory power, learning ability, and mood stability. It also helps in boosting BDNF – a protein vital for brain growth and functioning that ultimately increases concentration levels.
8. Spinach
Spinach is a leafy green vegetable that contains essential vitamins and minerals essential for brain health. It contains lutein and zeaxanthin, two powerful antioxidants that aid in combating inflammation, enhancing memory power and cognitive function.
Spinach is also an excellent source of iron, which is crucial for oxygen transportation to the brain – leading to better concentration and focus.
9. Avocado
Avocadoes are a great source of monounsaturated fats, which are responsible for enhancing blood flow and boosting cognitive abilities.
They also contain Vitamin K, folate, and Vitamin C that aid in maintaining better cognitive performance and memory power. Hence, if you want to keep up your concentration levels throughout the day, include avocados in your diet either as a salad dressing or on toast, or in guacamole.
10. Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that contains powerful antioxidants such as sulforaphane and Vitamin C essential for brain health and cognitive function.
Sulforaphane also helps in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, leading to better brain health. Moreover, Broccoli is also rich in Vitamin K, providing energy to the brain cells, enabling them to stay alert and active for more prolonged periods.
Conclusion
In conclusion, a well-balanced and healthy diet is essential for maintaining concentration levels.
The above-mentioned foods can play a significant role in enhancing our cognitive abilities by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, improving blood flow, and protecting our brain from damage. Hence, to improve your focus, concentration, and overall mental well-being, include these food items in your daily diet to enjoy the benefits.