Snacks to boost brainpower

Although you may not consider yourself a “morning person”, as you age your peak performance time can shift to the morning. If you find you’re feeling sluggish by mid-afternoon, a healthy snack may be just the thing to keep your brain working well the rest of the day.

Ideally, eating small snacks throughout the day can help maintain good brain function, says Dr. Carol Greenwood, Baycrest senior scientist and professor of nutritional sciences at the University of Toronto. But if you’re unable to have several small meals during the day, then a healthy afternoon snack, high in complex carbohydrates, such as a couple of oatmeal cookies, could give you the boost that you need.

Healthy snacks and morning meetings help older executives perform at their best
A study led by Dr. Lynn Hasher, Baycrest senior scientist and professor of psychology and marketing at the University of Toronto, shows a difference in peak performance time in older adults compared to younger adults. Older adults tend to peak in the morning.

Some good advice for aging executives and professionals who want to keep their brains sharp:
– Schedule important meetings or presentations in the morning because that’s when you’re most alert.
– Have food available at afternoon meetings or have a bite to eat just before the meeting.
– Don’t go for long periods without eating.
– Remember that breakfast is an important meal at any age.

Ideal snacks to boost your brain power:
– An energy bar
– Two oatmeal cookies
– Fruit and a cookie
– A whole grain or bran muffin

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