Brain food
During times of exams and stress, we exude anxiety and crave serenity.
But is it all just mind over matter, and how much does food act as a placebo as opposed to a memory-fix?
Omega 3 is a hot topic of conversation. Docosahexaenoic Acid (DHA) is an Omega 3 fatty acid and as a major constituent of the human brain and retina, it has been associated with brain function.
This provokes belief that oily fish = 'Brain Food', in addition to protecting the body against heart disease. People in the UK eat 59% less fish than they did 60 years ago.
However, it seems some people go to the extremes; Emma Rink says, "my friend went out to the supermarket the night before an exam to buy fish...like that would make a difference."
But it seems students will try anything in the hope of achieving high grades; 'When I was doing my second year uni exams I ate mackerel or sardines for breakfast every day' says one third year student.
The Food Standards Agency (FSA) recommends that people consume, as part of a balanced diet, "two portions of fish, one of which should be oily".
If you can't stomach fish, especially at breakfast, Vegetable sources of omega-3 include linseed and rape seed oil.
However, acccording to the FSA, "recent evidence indicates that these sources are not as effective or as beneficial as fish oils".
Omega 3 eggs provide a helpful alternative Nicknamed "intelligent eggs", 1 egg gives you ¾ of your daily requirement.
If such alternatives don't do it for you, you can always try Omega 3 supplements, although I have found their tendency to get stuck in your throat, creates doubt that they actually make it to your brain.
My fiend went out to the supermarket the night before an exam to buy fish...like that would make a difference.Emma Rink
On going to an exam-writing workshop, a tangent led us onto what to eat before the morning of an exam.
The girl who suggested eating chocolate, was nearly dragged out of the room by her hair.
Chocolate will make your sugar levels peak and then fall.
It is more beneficial to have a slow-releasing carbohydrate (a food with a low Glycaemic Index).
Porridge has a low Glycaemic index, as do fruit and nuts.
Eating breakfast everyday is set to boost your brain. For example, Shreddies not only 'keep hunger locked up 'til lunch', but containing whole grain, they maintain blood sugar levels and are suggested to boost your memory.
Super-size your salads not your McDonalds.
For more information check out these websites:
10 foods to boost your brain power
Recipes for the brain from Mental Health
The British Dietetic Association
The institute of food research
