Issue 160

November 2017

Dreams of a world title not enough to motivate you? Try eating these foods to help give yourself a kick in the butt.

  • SALMON

Power your brain or help destroy depression – two traits of the minerals in this fish. No wonder given the effort they need to swim upstream. Eat it or supplement your diet with Omega 3.

  • LENTILS

Legumes that are high in fiber and versatile, which can keep your blood sugar stable for sustained levels of energy.

  • BEEF LIVER

Not to everyone’s taste, but it keeps you topped up with vitamins B6 and 12, which are essential for brain function and performance.

  • EGG YOLKS

Contain plenty of the noggin-enhancing nutrient, choline. They also boost testosterone to get you in a better mood.

  • SUNFLOWER SEEDS

Dopamine is a brain chemical that increases your feel-good factor. Sunflower seeds have got your fix.

  • GRAPE JUICE

Up the levels of serotonin, norepinephrine and melatonin in your gray matter for better emotional well-being. That’ll help you visualize your next victory.

  • GREEN TEA

Need more mental toughness to see your goals through? Theanine is the nutrient you need. A couple of cups of green tea will provide enough brain fuel.

  • BACOPA MONNIERI

What the hell is that, you might sayy? Native to India, this small plant has shown mood-heightening qualities and is available as a supplement in tablets.

  • DRIED OREGANO

Throw these in with your sauces, meats or salads for a high dose of luteolin – for motivation, memory, brain health and decreased brain inflammation.

  • PORTABELLO MUSHROOMS

Besides a spot of sunbathing, you can get more Vitamin D, the mood-elevating micronutrient, with these fungi. Perfect if you’re stuck in the gym all day.

  • DARK CHOCOLATE

A modest amount of caffeine for an energy hike and brain improving polyphenols – what’s not to like about this treat? Eat a sensible amount and it won’t even count as a cheat.

  • ISOTONIC SPORTS DRINK

Any daily activity that requires willpower saps your brain of glucose. Top up your motivation levels with a few sips so you’re ready to give it your all in your next training session.

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