Foods for Focus- Healthy Tips to Improve Concentration

So you want to improve your focus? Try these simple tips and you might just make it through the work day without that 4pm latte.


Morning
Eat Breakfast- most important meal of the day for a reason, people! Think whole grains, high fiber and filling lean protein.

Include a cup of java- Caffeine increases alertness, energy, focus and concentration. Instead of whipping out your life savings for Starbucks every morning, (and afternoon) try switching over to black coffee or unsweetened tea. Your tummy and your wallet will thank you.

Don't forget a serving of natural sugar- Like those found in fruits such as oranges, bananas, apples and pineapple. Take it easy though. One serving is enough to provide that small energy burst and memory enhancement you are looking for. Overdo it and get ready to crash.

Afternoon
Go for a walk- Step away from the desk, clear your head and get those feel-good endorphins going. Come back feeling refreshed and ready to work.

Hydrate- One of the first signs of dehydration is lack of focus and concentration. Water is in every single cell of our bodies, without it, we simply cannot function properly. So drink it up!

Focus on veggies- Antioxidants, vitamins, minerals and fiber to keep you full and your tummy from distracting you with hunger.

Add some fish- like salmon or mackerel. The omega-3's found in these foods are the brain's best fuel.

Grab a handful of trail mix- The natural sugars will get you through that afternoon rut. Again, don't over do it!

Evening
Turn off the cell phone- if you need to get something done, it's as simple as that. Set aside a specific time in which the phone and tv are off to allow you to focus on the task at hand. Attempting to get any sort of work done with emails and text messages constantly popping up is a distraction that can wait an hour or two.

Organize your space- What is more distracting than clutter? One simple way to improve your focus is to clear out objects and simplify your work space. Your mind will be at ease knowing you can focus on your work rather than thinking about the mess that needs to be dealt with as well.

Stretch- Easy, mood boosting exercise that isn't tiring but gets the blood flowing and oxygen through those muscles and to the brain. Plus, it only takes a few minutes which will leave you more time to spare for the things you need to concentrate on.


Bedtime
Get your ZzzZz's- I think I read something sometime that going without sleep for a certain period of time alters the brain so much that operating a vehicle with no sleep is equivalent or worse than driving drunk. We all know we need at least 8 hours, but equally important is setting up a regular routine for yourself. Have a set "lights out" time and turn that dang TV off! You will sleep better, I promise.