Dr. David Sousa points out in his book, “How the Brain Learns” that this remarkable 3-pound apparatus between our ears “represents only about 2 percent of our body weight, [yet] it consumes nearly 20 percent of our calories. Although it cannot generate enough electricity to light a simple light bulb, its capabilities make it the most powerful force on Earth” (Sousa, 2006).
Remarkable indeed, but how do we get the most out of it? Like any energy using object, it needs to be adequately fueled…and what are the best fuels? Well campers (drum roll)…heeeere they are: exercise, fruit, and water. Surprise! You don’t need to spend money on expensive energy drinks and bars. The best brain fuel is easily accessible and minimal cost. Let’s have a look at the big three.
Exercise - Dr. John Medina in his book, “Brain Rules” places exercise solidly in the number one spot of his brain rules. As he points out, “exercise improves cognition for two reasons: increased oxygen flow to the brain and increased neurons’ (fancy word for brain cells) creation, survival, and resistance to damage and stress. “ He continues to point that “exercise has so many benefits; it’s the closest thing to a magic bullet.” You can learn more at www.brainrules.net.
Fruit (or in particular, glucose) – Sousa points out, “Low amounts of oxygen and glucose in the blood can produce lethargy and sleepiness. Eating a moderate portion of food containing glucose (fruits are an excellent source) can boost performance and accuracy of working memory, attention, and motor function.” The data also indicates that fruit juice (because it contains fructose not glucose) is not a good substitute for fresh fruit.
Water – A study conducted by Karol and Gold back in 1998 (as cited by Sousa) indicates that “water is the conductor that helps messages” travel within your brain cells. Being poorly hydrated is like trying to travel by boat… without enough water for the boat to float.
So remember, you can boost your brain capability (which translates to improved academic success; not to mention impressing your friends) by taking a walk, eating some fruit and drinking enough water.
References cited:
Sousa, David (2006). How the Brain Learns. Corwin Press, Thousand Oaks, CA.
Medina, John (2009). Brain Rules. Pear Press. Seattle, WA
Remarkable indeed, but how do we get the most out of it? Like any energy using object, it needs to be adequately fueled…and what are the best fuels? Well campers (drum roll)…heeeere they are: exercise, fruit, and water. Surprise! You don’t need to spend money on expensive energy drinks and bars. The best brain fuel is easily accessible and minimal cost. Let’s have a look at the big three.
Exercise - Dr. John Medina in his book, “Brain Rules” places exercise solidly in the number one spot of his brain rules. As he points out, “exercise improves cognition for two reasons: increased oxygen flow to the brain and increased neurons’ (fancy word for brain cells) creation, survival, and resistance to damage and stress. “ He continues to point that “exercise has so many benefits; it’s the closest thing to a magic bullet.” You can learn more at www.brainrules.net.
Fruit (or in particular, glucose) – Sousa points out, “Low amounts of oxygen and glucose in the blood can produce lethargy and sleepiness. Eating a moderate portion of food containing glucose (fruits are an excellent source) can boost performance and accuracy of working memory, attention, and motor function.” The data also indicates that fruit juice (because it contains fructose not glucose) is not a good substitute for fresh fruit.
Water – A study conducted by Karol and Gold back in 1998 (as cited by Sousa) indicates that “water is the conductor that helps messages” travel within your brain cells. Being poorly hydrated is like trying to travel by boat… without enough water for the boat to float.
So remember, you can boost your brain capability (which translates to improved academic success; not to mention impressing your friends) by taking a walk, eating some fruit and drinking enough water.
References cited:
Sousa, David (2006). How the Brain Learns. Corwin Press, Thousand Oaks, CA.
Medina, John (2009). Brain Rules. Pear Press. Seattle, WA
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