A well-fed mind: how food affects our intellectual abilities

The classic phrase, “You are what you eat,” can be broken down into several components. Not only our appearance depends on proper nutrition, but also our mental abilities. For example, studies have shown that out of 245 Iranian schoolchildren, those who more often ate foods high in sugar and simple carbohydrates (baked goods, white bread, snacks) showed the lowest test scores.

For the active work of the brain, at least 20% of the total volume of nutrients received by the body is required. Moreover, these should not be tasty “pacifiers”, but products enriched with vitamins, fats and amino acids.

Realizing that “our natural computer” requires special attention, Fazer together with Nokia and Nightingale Health launched the new Fazer Brainhow program. Through research, partners want to understand how food quality and eating habits affect a person’s stress tolerance, sleep duration, and vitality. The results of the project will be announced only in 2018, but for now the company invites you to visit own center and in addition made a list of components for pumping the brain.

Our brain is 60% composed of organic compounds of carboxylic acids and glycerol, or, more simply, fats. They are responsible for energy production, cell division, transmission of nerve impulses, body protection, and much more. Due to their versatility, these items are especially important to replenish. Scientists have proven the exceptional benefits of unsaturated fatty acids or omega-3s. And you can find this component in fatty fish, such as, for example, salmon.

The sound element is found in the blood, muscles, bones, liver and even in the retina of the eye. It helps to stay young and vigorous, and also has a beneficial effect on memory. Oatmeal is considered one of the sources of zinc. Porridge is famous not only for useful trace elements such as zinc, magnesium and iron, but also for coarse dietary fiber. Despite the offensive name, they regulate cholesterol levels and satisfy hunger for a long time.

Folate is a natural form of vitamin B9. It plays a special role in cell growth and DNA formation, and also influences attention, perception and motivation. With its lack, fatigue appears, the skin becomes dry, and the nails become brittle. In order to prevent such a decline in mood, you should stock up on broccoli. The miracle vegetable reduces the risk of heart attacks, strokes and cancer, and also soothes the nervous system.

Chocolate – accumulator of flavanols

These are special natural compounds that have a positive effect on the cardiovascular system. Natural antioxidants increase the elasticity of blood vessels and lower blood pressure. They also have a positive effect on cognitive abilities. There is an abundance of magical substances in cocoa, which is why another significant item has appeared on the list of merits of dark chocolate.

Lecithin strengthens the nervous system, promotes the formation and strengthening of working memory, and also activates intellectual activity. Soy is a common source of this ingredient. It is rich in vegetable protein and can replace livestock products.

By the way, one of the sources of lecithin was the Hercules bread from Fazer within the global company Brainhow. The recipe for the novelty was the result of the joint work of the technologists of the Finnish brand and the specialists of the I.I. Mechnikov.

The mini-format was able to contain a maximum of useful carbohydrates, vitamins and amino acids, and lecithin obtained from plant materials became an additional bonus. The packaging design is made in the form of a book, thus the company proclaims its mini-bread as edible “food for the mind”. In general, it is worth taking a closer look at the new Fazer products, because the company is now working for the benefit not only of health, but also of the mind.