Brain Energy

Your Brain needs a Little Juice.
by Andrew Nelson for www.getfitnyc.com
andy@getfitnyc.com

When we exercise we are improving the efficiency of the body to transport oxygen. As the muscles contract and become replenished with more oxygen rich blood, the heart and lungs become more adept at transporting oxygen. Surprisingly, but thankfully, the amount of blood flow to the brain remains the same. However, if there is more oxygen in the blood the brain can function better.
Does exercising make you smarter? I believe genetics pretty much determines how smart you are. Exercise can help with focus and mental endurance. If you’re interested enough to read my blog posts, you’re probably smart enough to know you should be exercising. And getting more oxygen to the brain can't hurt. If your body’s systems are functioning optimally and efficiently, you will be better able to handle the stresses that we’re all faced with every day.

Here are few tips to keep your brain fresh as the day wears on:
1. Don't sit for more than an hour without standing up. (Hey! if the smokers can take a break so should the exercisers)

2. If you get that mid-afternoon energy slump and need your caffeine boost, walk a few extra blocks to get your coffee.

3. Take a 15-20 min walk around the block in the early afternoon or after lunch. This will aid digestion and regulate your insulin.

4. Avoid sugary and/or high carbohydrate snacks. These spike the insulin and then cause a "crash." Instead, choose a healthie snack like an apple with 10-15 raw almonds or natural peanut butter.

5. Take a 20 minute nap. Don't do this at your desk or you may be napping from home next week. A nap has been shown to improve productivity.

Go be Healthy and have some fun. Laugh at yourself at least once today.