Most people would tell you that the best beverage for boosting concentration is coffee. But a new study claims that it is in fact orange juice that's most suited for the job.
Scientists advise having a cup of fresh-squeezed orange juice whenever you feel sleepy and not concentrated enough. Tests have shown that people who drink orange juice for breakfast remain alert and concentrated for longer periods of time than those who bet on coffee.
These results are quite fascinating, especially considering the functions of caffeine. It is an energy stimulant with a potent refreshing effect that stimulates intellectual capabilities, the senses and mood all at the same time.
But it turns out that the flavonoids in citrus juices are much more effective. They improve blood flow to the brain naturally, thereby facilitating the transfer of information between the brain cells.
Besides replenishing you, a glass of orange juice will also provide you numerous benefits and healthy nutrients. A glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice for breakfast gives the body all of the vitamin C it needs for the day. It also contains potassium, folic acid, phytonutrients, thiamine and others.
All of these help to lower high blood pressure, lower the risk of cardiovascular diseases and heart attack, aid the release of energy from carbohydrates, regulate appetite, maintain muscle function and the nervous system. It is thought that the natural antioxidants in orange juice decrease the risk of developing cancer, since they prevent cell oxidation and damage.
If you would like to substitute your coffee with a healthier source of energy, there are several other foods and drinks besides orange juice that can help you. You can safely bet on avocados and whole grain foods because eating these feeds brain cells and keeps them concentrated.
Another healthy alternative is fish, whose omega-3 fatty acids have been proven to positively affect the brain and cognitive functions. If you're a fan of wild berries, then blueberries are the ones for you. They improve cognitive and motor skills.
