We're nearing the end of the alphabet, but that doesn't mean there aren't more delicious and brain-boosting foods left to cover. If you've been following PayPath's mind-boosting foods series, where you last learned about the benefits of pumpkin seeds, quinoa, and rosemary, then you've come to understand how food fuels more than just the body, it also makes a difference in the brain's functions and health.
Keep on enjoying all the nutritious goodness covered so far, like avocados, mackerel, and lentils, and get your belly and brain ready for even more foods that have proven to boost productivity, sharpness, memory, and overall success in the workplace and everywhere else!
Salmon
Salmon is a versatile fish that's readily available nearly anywhere canned, and is also found fresh or frozen in supermarkets nationwide nearly any time of year.
According to mindbodygreen, "Salmon is a terrific natural source of the omega-3 oil DHA. DHA plays a pivotal role in maintaining the health of brain cells and actually helps to stimulate the growth of brain cells in the brain's memory center."
And salmon is terrific for kids too. Get them started early with eating well and keeping focused. As per Dr. Axe, "If you have kids, feeding them salmon can help prevent ADHD."
Go ahead and enjoy smoked salmon or lox and cream cheese on a whole wheat bagel or toast for breakfast, a salmon salad sandwich for lunch, or grilled salmon and steamed veggies for dinner. Packed with protein and chock-full of nutrition, you'll swim through your day well-fed from head to toe.
Turmeric
Spice up your life and your brainpower with the unique and tempting taste of the spice turmeric added to your favorite dishes. According to Dr. Axe, "Turmeric is an ancient root that's been used for its healing properties throughout history. (It) improves your brain's oxygen intake, keeping you alert and able to process information." Additionally, studies have showed that the spice may have anti-inflammatory affects for those afflicted with Alzheimer's disease.
You've probably already enjoyed the taste of turmeric in curry-based dishes and Indian foods. Kitchn suggests using the spice at home with eggs, veggies, rice, soups, smoothies, teas, and anything else you want to kick up a notch.
Udon Noodles
Udon noodles are wheat-based, chewy-textured noodles often found in Asian dishes. Along with their great taste and versatility, these noodles are beneficial to the noggin too.
According to Dr. Axe, "Eating complex carbohydrates like whole grain udon noodles is actually a recommended and helpful dietary recommendation for stress management." In addition, "Thiamine is especially high in whole grain udon noodles, which is considered to be an "anti-stress" vitamin."
Heat up a piping hot bowl of soup and toss in plenty of udon. Slurp your way towards a stress-free way of life and do so deliciously. Want more? Here are the V, W, and X (yes, X) foods to chow down on!
Stay tuned as we finish up our A - Zs of mindful eating!
