If you ever listen to an athlete or any other physical fitness expert discussing their training, they will always focus on their diet obsessively. You can run, swim or take part in any form of physical activity, but whatever your talent or skill; your diet will play a huge role in your success.
The Science
While it might seem obvious, the way your body handles and processes food is dependent on the type of food itself. Certain food is processed rapidly, while other foods take a little bit longer. Your brain basically uses Glucose as its fuel source; everything you eat is turned into Glucose which then feeds your brain.
Pasta, Soda, and Cereal, for instance, are easily and quickly absorbed into our system, providing a quick but short-lived boost of energy. Processed foods, Cheeseburgers and Steaks, will provide more sustained energy, but will naturally require your digestive system to work significantly harder to digest the food. That is why when you eat a heavy meal of meat, or grab some cheap, unhealthy take-away food, that your brain feels sluggish and your productivity drops – because your body is working so hard to break down those food choices. Your body works as one overall system, not independently and so prioritizes the majority of the oxygen to be diverted to your digestive system, away from your brain, which then leaves you feeling tired and lethargic.
You Can’t Concentrate When You’re Hungry
Think about a time in the past when you have been really hungry. It can be difficult to concentrate on anything when hungry, as your mind and stomach start to focus on food. By eating a properly prepared, healthy and balanced diet, your body, mind, and appetite will be fully satisfied; your digestive system will function properly and you will feel more energetic and focused throughout the day.
We may not want to accept the fact that our food choices at lunchtime can affect our focus and productivity levels later in the day, but science would beg to differ, so think carefully about your diet, both for your body and your mind – your health is of the utmost importance!.