BRAIN FOOD

I understand that a lot of healthy snacks aren’t as appealing as the fries you have in your fridge or the candy you’ve stashed 
conveniently in your backpack.
But there are ways you can make healthy snacks that satisfy your cravings and feed your brain! It takes a little more time, but the effects
are much better. 

Here are some of my favorite snacks when I am studying...

1. Seeds and nuts
This may sound weird, after all you aren’t a bird, but seeds and nuts have been proven to help you concentrate and think clearer. Eating the right portion of nuts and seeds (about a handful a day) is great for you.  It helps stabilizes blood sugar levels, improves cholesterol and reduces the risk for some diseases like type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease.  All nuts are also rich in vitamin E - an antioxidant that helps keep your skin beautiful, while protecting your eyesight.  The perfect multitasking snack!

What I do:

I like to pile a bunch of different types of seeds and nuts on top of each other. I use pumpkin seeds, flax seeds, and chia seeds. (Fun fact: Chia seeds are very filling because they expand inside your tummy after you eat them). I also added coconut shreds and Craisins. You can eat this as it is or sprinkle it on top of your yogurt. Either way it is a fantastic study snack, and looks extra cute in this mason jar. 

2. Pears or apples
An apple ( or a pear )  a day keeps the doctor away? Pears are great for you because they are high in fiber, antioxidants, and minerals and vitamins optimum for a healthy diet. HIgh in antioxidants, pears help boost your immune system and promotes colon health.   It is also a hypoallergenic fruit making it the perfect alternative for people with food allergies. Forget the apple! 

What I do:
I like to put pears in pan and cook it with cinnamon. They turn out soft and delicious. You can also pair this with yogurt and granola, or cut them up and dip in peanut butter or caramel. 
 

3. Smoothie
Any kind of healthy fruit or veggie smoothie would be delicious and perfect for studying. Sometimes getting all the recommended amount of servings of fruits and veggies can be a challenge - making smoothies helps ensure that your body meets its daily nutritional needs for  a healthier balanced diet.  Using healthy sweeteners like honey, or agave can also make it easier to benefit from veggies that you may not like eating raw - like spinach and broccoli.  Smoothies have an endless number of benefits as it combines multiple different fruits and veggies and various sources of vitamins and minerals. You can find hundreds of recipes online - I'll share some of my favorite ones in an upcoming blog post!