Every year on days like these, our thoughts are with the children who are starting the Panhellenic Games. Although we know that it is neither decisive nor final, the children's zeal to cope in the best possible way and to emerge from the challenge of the Panhellenic Games victorious and unscathed, draws us into their anxiety, reminds us of our own and motivates us to help them in any way we can!
So I prepared the nutritional decalogue of the Panhellenic Games! Little tips for my little friends that will help maximize your performance!
- We don't skip breakfast! No matter how sleepy we feel, no matter how much we're in a hurry to get to school or the exam on time, it's very important to give our body the necessary energy, so that it doesn't have to worry about its source of nutrition to meet its needs, but only about studying and concentrating!
- We always have a bottle of water next to us! Thirst and dehydration lead to a feeling of fatigue and inability to concentrate. As much as you may feel that coffee will quench your thirst and relax you, the truth is that there is nothing like water!
- If, nevertheless, the time comes when our body needs a drink, then let it be green tea! Green tea contains caffeine and theanine, substances that promote alertness and awakening of the body.
- Rosemary and mint! Since we are referring to herbs, these magical ingredients that we can add to our foods and drinks are responsible for stimulating the body and, in particular, memory and concentration.
- Berries! Blackberries-Raspberries-Blueberries-Strawberries-Acai-Goji, they all belong to the same family, they are in season, they are refreshing but most importantly? They are super antioxidants and coordinate brain function! Is there a better snack?
- Dark chocolate. No, it's not a myth. Dark chocolate increases the levels of both serotonin and endorphins, hormones that are responsible for better blood flow to the brain and concentration. Whether in pieces, melted on fruit, or as a drink, it is the best choice to sweeten up and dedicate ourselves to reading at the same time!
- Nuts. All seeds and fruits of nature contain, in addition to antioxidants, vitamin E, which when found at reduced levels results in mental decline and brain fatigue! For this reason, a handful of nuts a day undoubtedly helps us achieve the goal of maximum concentration!
- Fish!! An ally in our effort will be any fatty fish, such as salmon or sardines, which are rich in omega-3. Fatty acids of this type are excellent for good brain function and for enhancing memory!
- However, success is always the result of many factors! That's why we make sure to sleep well. If our time is pressed and the workload is heavy, we should try to be in bed between 11-3 so that the body has time to rest! Ideally, however, we undoubtedly need 7-9 hours of sleep.
- And finally, let's not forget to go for a walk or do the type of exercise that pleases us so that the body can relax, get the oxygen it needs, and help it function more correctly and fully!
Let's not forget that the intake of all necessary nutrients and a balanced diet play a primary role in concentration, memory, and clarity.
Good luck guys! Our thoughts are with you!
Parents, we are holding on tight!