Need to Focus? Discover the Power of Nootropics
Looking for something that can give you a mental boost at school or work? Before you reach for a cup of coffee or an energy drink, consider nootropic foods. Nootropics, also known as cognitive enhancers, are a group of substances that can improve mental performance. “Nootropics are drugs or supplements that in healthy individuals may improve cognitive function, particularly executive functions, memory, creativity, or motivation” (Bunzl Catering Supplies).
Additional benefits of nootropic foods are:
Boosted memory
Improved mood and mood disorders
Enhanced learning
Better attention span
Motivation
Increased concentration
Improved sleep quality
Here’s a list of a few nootropic foods you can add to your list for the next grocery store run.
Green tea
Green tea is a popular drink that contains a ton of nootropics. It comprises polyphenolic catechins, antioxidants that prevent or reduce cell damage. In addition, green tea includes theanine, an amino acid that helps improve focus and clarity.
Dark chocolate
Who doesn’t love the idea of consuming a sweet treat to boost your brain performance? Dark chocolate includes theobromine, a mild stimulant that can enhance blood flow. Increased blood flow is known to improve cognitive function. Ideally, the best dark chocolate options would be low in sugar to avoid energy crashes.
Blueberries
Blueberries can have a nootropic effect too. These fruits contain a large number of antioxidants like anthocyanins. Like resveratrol, these antioxidants help slow the aging process and eliminate toxins that can lead to chronic disease. You can eat the fruit or mix the blueberry powder into your food or drink to get the antioxidants.
Spinach
This vegetable also has a nootropic-like effect that can boost your mood, ultimately helping your productivity. Spinach contains betaine, which can alter your mood and emotional state. In addition, the opioid peptide rubiscolin-6, which can help to reduce anxiety and improve memory, has been found in spinach.