It's the summer of the dreaded exams, GCSE's, SAT's it's all going on. Make sure you are giving yourself the best chances by eating the right foods to keep your brain active.

Why do I need to eat the right foods?

If you give your brain the right nutrients, you will be able to think quicker, have a better memory, be better coordinated and balanced and have improved concentration.

How does it work?

• For brain cells to communicate with each other effectively, they require neurotransitters
• These are made from amino acids which are found in proteins.
• Vitamins and Minerals are required to convert the amino acids into neurotransmitters

So what do I need to eat?

Different functions of the brain require different foods in order to boost their roles. Listed below are a few that may help you when it comes to revising and your exams:

• To boost memory:

1. egg yolks
2. peanuts
3. wheat germ
4. liver,
5. meat
6. fish
7. milk
8. cheese 
9. vegetables (especially broccoli, cabbage and cauliflower)

• To increase learning and memory:

1. All proteins (meat, milk products, fish, beans, nuts, soy products)

• For mood, feeling and stimulation of the mind:

1. carbohydrate based foods e.g., pasta, starchy vegetables, potatoes, cereals, breads.

In addition hydration is important. Your brain needs to be fully hydrated so that the circuitry works well and it functions at optimum levels. Water is essential for concentration and mental alertness.