Feeling unfocused and unproductive? Poor nutrition might be the reason
‘Every organ needs fuel to operate properly’
KUWAIT: Lack of concentration while completing tasks, an inability to meet deadlines and easily forgetting things are common issues that people often complain about without understanding the underlying reasons behind them. According to nutritionist Dr Ahmad Al-Haddad, our bodies function like machines, and every organ needs fuel to operate properly. The brain, being a crucial organ, is strongly influenced by the type and amount of nutrients our bodies consume, significantly impacting our focus and overall performance.
Dr Haddad stated that depriving the body of essential nutrients is one of the leading factors behind these problems, especially if practiced in the long term. “God hasn’t created all these nutrients for no purpose. Every single nutrient carries a specific benefit for our bodies that we cannot ignore,” he noted. To enhance memory, attention span and brain function, he suggested the intake of essential nutrients through the consumption of specific foods and drinks.
Salmon and fatty fish
Salmon and fatty fish are highly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, making them the best choice for increasing the intake of this vitamin, according to Dr Haddad. He emphasized the importance of omega-3 because 60 percent of the brain is made up of fats, with more than half of these fats consisting of omega-3, playing a critical role in enhancing brain function. Another reason why omega-3 intake is essential is that our bodies can’t produce it, so there’s no way it can be compensated for without consuming foods that contain it. He also mentioned nuts as a non-animal source of omega-3, although of lower quality than the animal source in terms of absorption and efficiency levels.
Caffeine
Caffeine, a go-to option for those feeling lazy or sleepy, has a positive and healthy impact on the brain, according to Dr Haddad. By stimulating the release of dopamine, a neurochemical known for increasing focus and maintaining concentration, caffeine can make a person feel more energized. However, he explained it also works on blocking adenosine, which is a chemical that is naturally produced in the body to increase one’s desire to sleep. Dr Haddad warned that proper consumption of caffeine is crucial, with an ideal limit of 200 mg of coffee, equal to two cups a day, to increase focus levels without affecting sleep patterns or causing sleep deficiencies.
Berries
Dr Haddad said berries, highly concentrated with antioxidants, have a distinctive ability to cross the brain barrier, promoting the wellness of brain cells by supporting their function. The benefits of antioxidants extend to protecting the body and reducing the risk of many diseases. As Dr Haddad listed these options, he highlighted the importance of following a balanced diet that includes all nutrients. Neglecting certain foods in favor of others means focusing on some benefits while neglecting others. He also emphasized the importance of fulfilling the exact needs of the body, not exceeding or falling short. Exceeding the body’s nutrient requirements leads to the storage of nutrients as fats, increasing obesity, affecting brain function and causing other related health problems. To avoid such issues, he advised consulting a nutrition expert before following any diet, running tests to determine specific nutritional needs and adjusting the eating pattern accordingly.