What should senior high school students eat to nourish their brains?

Jan 23, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health
Disease description:

My son is currently a senior high school student in his third year. His academic workload is heavy every day, and there must be a lot of mental consumption. I would like to ask the doctor, what should senior high school students eat to nourish the brain?

Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Lv Zhiqin

The following are some recommended food categories rich in nutrients beneficial to the brain:

1. Foods rich in lecithin: such as eggs, walnuts, soybeans, and black sesame seeds. Phospholipids are important components of brain cells and help maintain normal function and activity of brain cells.

2. Foods rich in B-complex vitamins: B vitamins play a role in enhancing brain cell function. It is recommended to consume more whole grains and coarse cereals such as millet, brown rice, black rice, and wheat germ, as well as foods like bean sprouts, lean pork, sweet potatoes, milk, fish, chicken liver, and nuts.

3. Foods rich in vitamin C: such as tomatoes, pumpkin, bitter melon, bell peppers, Chinese date, tangerines, sweet oranges, and apples. Vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant, enhances the brain's utilization of oxygen.

4. Foods rich in protein: Protein is the foundation of brain neurons and plays an important role in improving alertness and concentration, such as chicken, fish, and legumes.

5. Other nutrients: appropriately supplement foods rich in calcium, magnesium, and potassium, such as kelp, high-calcium yogurt, and dark green leafy vegetables, which can enhance memory. Meanwhile, foods rich in selenium, such as konjac, dried shrimp, and sea cucumbers, are also beneficial for brain development and function.

In addition, maintaining a balanced and diverse diet, adequate water intake, sufficient sleep, and moderate exercise can help senior high school students maintain an optimal learning condition.