The phrase “you are what you eat” has been around forever. It may sound strange, especially if you take it in a literal sense, but it’s true.

What you put into your body influences many aspects of your body including functionality, memory and focus. These attributes are important to being a good student, but are even more important now because Syracuse University is at the peak of midterm season.

In addition to studying, here are some foods that will help you focus and retain information for those big exams.

Avocados

These green delights have been popular recently and are one of my favorite foods to eat with chips. These fruits contain high levels of both vitamin K and folate. Folate helps the body make new cells and plays a vital role in the body’s ability to copy and synthesize DNA. Avocados were practically designed to improve cognitive function, memory and concentration. The best part is that since avocados are trending, there are so many fun and unique recipes on how to use them.

Blueberries

Another fantastic fruit that can be eaten by itself or in a smoothie are blueberries. They have been shown to support the brain against “oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions.” This means they prevent issues in the recall aspect of our memory. This berry also boosts the birth rate of new brain cells within the part of the brain responsible for memory.

Kale

Kale is one of my favorite greens because it has a high nutrient density, is extremely flexible in how you can eat it and is a hardy plant that can grow in most places. The reason kale is on this list is that it contains a nutrient called lutein, which our bodies normally can’t manufacture. Kale can be put in smoothies or baked into crispy chips, but I think kale is best as a salad.

Dark Chocolate

Chocolate physically makes you feel better by boosting the production of endorphins in your brain. It contains flavanol, which has been shown to help with blood circulation, memory development and storage within the brain — yet another reason to eat it. However, this doesn’t mean consuming chocolate cake will help improve your memory. Make sure you’re eating the healthy chocolates, like dark chocolate, to receive these benefits.

Salmon

If you love sushi, then this is definitely worth trying. Salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acid which help with our ability to make DHA. DHA helps the fatty layer of your brain cells by providing extra insulation, which helps to pass along information, reduces cerebral inflammation and aids in neurotransmitter production. The deterioration of the insulation is linked with memory loss and cognitive decline, which is the opposite of what you need during midterms.

Even though midterms are around the corner, don’t fret — preparing early for them will help further down the line. Take some time now to study early and eat the right foods to help fuel your brain power.

Good luck and “may the odds be ever in your favor.”

Taylor Lucero is an information management and technology major who is hoping to pursue a career in cybersecurity. His other passions include tasting food, sipping coffee, hugging dogs and taking the occasional power nap. He can be reached at tlucero@syr.edu.

Published on February 28, 2018 at 9:49 pm