Brava

June 2012

Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/72324

Contents of this Issue

Navigation

Page 33 of 83

work up the ladder BoostingBites Brain- When trying to stay sharp from sun up to happy hour, Tracie Hittman of Tracie Hittman Nutrition says the recipe for success is simple: balance your intake of proteins, carbs and healthy fats. Here she spells out rules for workday snack attacks When you can't ignore your sweet tooth: Try dark chocolate. Offering healthy fats that make it a satisfying snack, research has also shown that dark chocolate contains antioxidants that increase blood fl ow to the brain. » Why the Protein/Carb Balance Matters While antioxidants, vitamins and healthy fats all play an important role in brain function, Hittman emphasizes that balancing your intake of protein and carbs releases a more steady fl ow of glucose to the brain and body. The re- sult? You step off the roller coaster brought on by overeating carbs and feel more focused all day. When your daily buzz is making you crash: Try caffeine with the right additions. To reap the cognitive benefi ts of tea or cof- fee, but dodge a post-caffeine crash, keep your blood sugar balanced by serving it up with a touch of half-and-half and honey and never sipping on an empty stomach. Tea brewing system by Tea Forte, $12; Orange Tree Imports, 1721 Monroe St., Madison; (608) 255-8211. When you're craving some- thing crunchy and sweet: Try nuts and applesauce. If When you need a quick breakfast:Try a healthy toast. If your morning dash to work often involves grabbing a pastry, reach for bread made from sprouted grains instead (such as Ezekiel 4:9 Bread). Add a smear of peanut butter or cheese on top to balance your protein/carb intake. 32 BRAVA Magazine June 2012 you're feeling a 2 p.m. slump coming on, keep an energy- boosting combination stashed near your desk for a quick pick- me-up. "Box Appetite" BPA-free lunchbox by Black + Blum, $23; Orange Tree Imports, 1721 Monroe St., Madison; (608) 255-8211 When your lunch is heavy on carbs: Try a lean protein and fruit. Whether it's a snack or a healthy side you need, keep it simple with easy options. Cheese or a hard-boiled egg offer a dose of protein, and pairing either with a fruit, which contains carbs and healthy vitamins, makes a winning combination. » » » »

Articles in this issue

Archives of this issue

view archives of Brava - June 2012