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This is an interesting article that is relevant to those that spend much of their time in front of a machine as a gig worker. Working gigs has exploded in the last few years with platforms such as fiverr.com.and upwork.com, where anyone with a skill can do small gig jobs for a fee. Having done quite a bit of it in the past, and with the competition growing daily, you have to be on top of your game. This article from Forbes discusses some of the brain boosting superfoods that can help.
Stress. It can be short-lived, such as dealing with a family crisis. Once gone, though, our body systems return to normal. But what about chronic stress – the kind that is always present because of more long-term stressors? Such can be the life of a gig worker who is […]
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1. Blueberries
What could be more snackable than some berries? Just set a bowl of blueberries beside you as you work. They improve brain function and memory, as well as boost your immune system – things that will improve your focus and reduce the stress that comes from feeling unproductive. And the long-term benefit? They slow down the effects of cognitive aging, plus improve your eyesight.
I love berries, and generally I feel an immediate kick, similar to bananas!
2. Nuts (and walnuts in particular)
While all nuts are considered great sources of Omega-3, walnuts have many more benefits than most. Lack of Omega 3 fatty acids can lead to depression and lowered cognitive functions. And both of these conditions occur from stress. Snacking on walnuts can help you stave off both of these issues.
What’s even better, walnuts are a source of lean protein and polyunsaturated fats, meaning they are great for weight watchers. The other major benefit is that walnuts raise melatonin levels – the ingredient that fosters great sleep. Eat some before bedtime, but also throughout the day to keep that brain productive.
These days if I go the supermarket instead of grabbing a packet of chips like I used to as a snack, I now grab a bag of mixed nuts. Much healthier and nutritious.
3. Some fish
The oily types of fish – salmon, sardines, tuna, and such – have the same benefits as walnuts. If you don’t like walnuts, but do like smoked salmon, tuna, or sardines, you are set to go! Make yourself a quick sandwich with a fatty fish to get a good dose of healthy fatty acids.
We have fish as a meal at least once per week.
4. Supplements
Fresh seasonal produce can be hard to get regularly. For when you don’t have time to shop, consider taking vitamins and nutrient supplements:
- Vitamin B complex: These are often called the anti-stress vitamins because they elevate moods and energy levels and help to enhance feelings of calm.
- Liquid nutrient supplements: There is a huge difference in these drinks. Many have chemically-produced nutrients and your body does not often recognize them. Choose supplements that are made from all-natural foods and contain nutrients promoting natural regeneration of cells. For instance, redox signaling molecules, added to the new-gen supplements, replace the obsolete or damaged cells in your body and improve the generation of new cells and ultimately your health.
5. Dark chocolate
Oh yes! For anyone with a sweet tooth, here’s a great solution that also provides amazing physical and mental benefits. Dark chocolate is full of flavonoids – nutrients that improve brain function, especially focus, memory, and learning. When you are alert and productive, your stress levels are naturally lowered. The key to good dark chocolate is that is has at least 70% cocoa.
Of course, there is always some chocolate in the house. Maybe though we need to swap to dark chocolate?
6. Greens
So, snacking on leafy greens while you work is probably not a great solution. But how about broccoli? That’s one superfood that is easily snackable while you work. The huge amounts of Vitamin K and B vitamins are the biggest factors here – they improve cognitive function. The other plus? Iron – an element that improves memory and focus. And the antioxidant value is well-established. Snack on it raw or cooked al dente.
This is a no brainer. We know green stuf is good for youf1
7. Whole grains
One of the best things about whole grains is that they digest slower and give your more long-term energy and focus. When you work better, you are definitely less stressed. And lest you are thinking only oatmeal or bran cereals, think again. There are now an array of whole grain crackers on the market – these are highly snackable.
There you have it – a list of healthy superfoods you can digest to improve your brain functions, stave off stress and stay more productive. Now, go forth and get yourself a healthy snack.
Certainly I’m not sure that this is all that remarkable if you’re a gig worker. It seems to me that this type of consumption is going to be good for anyone in any job. Happy shopping!
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