There are times in life when we all feel unproductive. Unexpected change, uncertainty and external stress factors can cause our minds to wander. If you have been feeling unproductive throughout these hard times, these foods could help increase your productivity, whether you are working from home, applying for jobs, or just trying to get in a workout. These food options will fuel your mind so your most productive days are on the way! Yay!
The great thing about each of these foods is as we are all trying to navigate our new normal, they can come along with you. They are portable, easy to pack, and acquire almost zero prep time. We are all busy, even during a global pandemic, so increasing productivity and eliminating mindless snacking is a win for everyone!
1.Berries
Berries are filled with antioxidants that improve brain function. Antioxidants in berries can boost memory, decrease inflammation throughout the body, and even help delay neurodegenerative diseases, such as dementia. Some berry options include strawberries, blueberries and blackberries.
2. Nuts.
Nuts contain healthy fat that, in general, is fuel for your brain. Nuts are abundant with amino acids and essential oils that aid in long term focus. Two of the best nuts to eat are walnuts and almonds. Walnuts are high in protein and fiber, benefiting overall well-being. Almonds contain magnesium and vitamin – E. These two nuts have the most benefits for the brain.
3. Dark Chocolate
Dark chocolate is so good for you; we give you full permission to eat it even for breakfast! Dark chocolate is a food source full of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Also, it can boost your serotonin and endorphin levels. You do not have to feel guilty about indulging in a piece or two (or three).
4. Flax seeds
Flax seeds should be eaten with other foods, but a great option is adding them to a smoothie, oatmeal, yogurt, salad, and so on. Flax seeds add a brain boost to any foods you are consuming. Flax seeds are high in magnesium, fiber, and B – vitamins. They are a superfood that will help you focus all day long. Tip: add flax seeds to oatmeal, a salmon salad filled with spinach, or berry smoothie. These foods are filled with excellent overall health benefits as well.
5. Avocado
This is fantastic news for all of the avocado toast lovers! Avocados enhance blood flow, which is a great way to keep your brain fired up all afternoon, and avoid burnout. In addition, avocados can boost your dopamine levels. They are another excellent source of healthy fat for your body.
You can incorporate many of these foods together to create delicious recipes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner that will keep you fueled all day long. These foods can be incorporated into your everyday routine.
If you are looking for something to drink along with your meal creations/snack options, try out these:
1. Coffee
Caffeine increases your dopamine levels, which, in return, boosts your mood. You probably feel better about all your coffee runs over the years! Coffee will provide you with a jolt of electricity that will help you accomplish everything on your to-do list.
2. Green Tea
The health benefits of green tea are endless. Green tea has caffeine in it, just like coffee. Green tea helps to balance mood, fight off fatigue, and relaxes you because it contains catechins. Catechins are antioxidants with plenty of health benefits. Also, green tea is metabolism boosting. So, it seems like drinking green tea is a win-win. If you do not like the taste of original green tea, there are many different flavors such as Honey-Lemon, Jasmine, Matcha, Lavender, and dozens more.
3. Water
Water has endless health benefits. It is essential to our overall well-being. Statically shown, most people walk around every day dehydrated without even knowing it. You are supposed to drink half of your body weight in water a day. It is hard to do, which is why so many of us are dehydrated (ha-ha)! Water helps to improve mood and energy levels. Tip: if you struggle with drinking water, try adding fruit. Lemon, cucumber, strawberries, and even orange slices help to make drinking water more bearable.
All of these foods contribute to overall wellness and health. There are many more foods that enhance a well – balanced diet and can contribute to increased productivity, concentration, and efficiency. Some additional foods that are worth looking into are bananas, eggs, brown rice, fatty-fish and so on. These foods will help motivate you through every day of the week and give you long-lasting energy. Enjoy!
“Every time you eat is an opportunity to nourish your body.”
