The human brain in a state of rest burns an average of 350 to 450 calories per day. Most of these calories go to maintaining automatic bodily functions like breathing, digesting food, heart beating, and keeping the body warm.
Any additional activity like working, reading, thinking, and stress require even more energy. The brain gets this energy from food, specifically glucose. This is why eating fresh, nourishing food is essential for optimal brain function, focus, and memory.
Below we’ll talk about 5 essential nutrient-packed foods and drinks for better brain health to help you stay focused, energized, and alert.
1. Berries
Berries are considered a superfood due to their high amount of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and essential nutrients. The flavanols and anthocyanins in blue, red, and black berries can help protect the brain cells from premature aging, cell damage, and inflammation.
The best berries for brain health include:
- Strawberries
- Blueberries
- Raspberries
- Elderberries
- Goji berries
- Cherries
- Blackberries
A handful of berries a day will give you a boost of energy and brain power so you can start the day with clarity and focus.
Need ideas on including berries in your meals? Here are 9 super fast and super healthy breakfast recipes for busy mornings.
2. Fatty Fish
Fatty fish is fish rich in omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, which support brain health and function. The best fish to eat for brain health is wild-caught salmon, tuna, sardines, and herring.
Learn more about the importance of these essential fatty acids for your mind and body and the foods that are rich in these nutrients.
3. Dark Chocolate
The human brain burns the most amount of calories of all organs in your body. The brain is responsible for our bodily and cognitive functions, including focus, productivity, and completing tasks.
Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants which are excellent for cognitive function support. To enjoy the full benefits of dark chocolate, opt for at least 70% cocoa content. The higher the cocoa percentage, the higher-quality the chocolate is and the more antioxidants it has.
4. CBD-Infused Coffee
CBD is one of the two main cannabinoids found in the hemp plant. It works with your body’s endocannabinoid system which helps regulate your nervous system.
CBD mimics endocannabinoids in your body, so it’s able to attach to alternative receptors in order to provide a number of benefits, including improved mood, focus, sleep, and stress relief.
When you pair CBD with coffee, you get a perfect combination of energy, focus, productivity, and alertness.
Start your Sträva experience today and get your daily CBD in a cup. You can enjoy a rich and smooth cup of coffee infused with premium organic CBD, all without the caffeine jitters.
5. Red Wine
Red wine is rich in resveratrol, a compound that helps the brain relax and de-stress. A glass of red wine can help prevent oxidative damage to the cells, which can help the brain stay healthy and sharp.
Sträva Tip: Red wine pairs perfectly with dark chocolate. Talk about an antioxidant boost!
Note: Drink responsibly and in moderation in order to enjoy the best benefits of red wine for your brain.
Give Your Brain a Boost of Energy and Focus With These Nutrient-Packed Foods
Whether you need more focus and alertness in the morning or more energy throughout the day, your brain needs nourishing food in order to function properly.
If you want to learn everything there is to know about CBD, download our free 35-page Ultimate Guide to CBD. As our gift to you, you’ll get 20% off your first Sträva order.
Frosina A. Ivanovic is a content marketing specialist and writer. She’s passionate about quality coffee, travel, wellness, and digital marketing. You can connect with Frosina on LinkedIn or her website, Zhillmatic.