6 Job Interview Super Foods

6 Job Interview Super Foods 6 Job Interview Super Foods Thats right: preparing nutritionally can potentially make or break your chances of getting hired. Nutrition plays a huge role in how our brain functions, which can affect how we’re able to comprehend and answer questions and think on the spot. If you neglect this absolutely monumental aspect of your health and well-being, your other preparatory efforts  can fall by the wayside. Here are six essential super foods  you may want to consider eating before  a job interview: 1. Omega-3/Fatty Acids Responsible for the healthy functioning of our brains, omega-3 can aid in reducing inflammation, balancing blood sugar, increasing the activity of BDNF in the brain (necessary for new cell growth), and building cell membranes. In our modern world, the leading sources of omega-3 come from wild fish and game, breast milk, seaweed, algae, and eggs hatched from chickens fed a diet of flaxseed and fishmeal. Low levels of omega-3 have been linked to a number of disorders, such as  depression, anxiety, dementia, and various learning disabilities. If salmon for breakfast isnt your cup of tea (although it pairs wonderfully with eggs), consider making a smoothie or adding ground flaxseed to your oatmeal or yogurt parfait. 2. Berries Widely recognized for their antioxidant properties, berries also have a history of improving brain health. A study published in the Annals of Neurology found that those who consumed large amounts of strawberries, blueberries, and other members of the berry family experienced a slower decline in memory and focus.   3. B-12 A key member of the B vitamin family, B-12 is known for supporting a healthy nervous system, metabolic processes, adrenal function, and DNA synthesis. B-12 is also important for increasing energy levels and improving one’s overall mental health. A B-12 vitamin (taken with food to avoid an upset stomach) is a great remedy to ward off sluggishness or to get you fired up for your interview. Unfortunately for us, our bodies don’t produce B-12, so we either need to get it from animal sources, such as eggs, fish, dairy products, and meat, or take it in a supplement form. 4. Spinach Rich in the antioxidant lutein, known to protect against cognitive decline, spinach has also been linked to lower rates of cognitive decline according to a study at Harvard Medical School. The easiest and most enjoyable way to get your dose of greens in the morning is in a smoothie. Add in some berries and you can’t even taste the spinach! 5. Protein Responsible for both satisfying your appetite longer and keeping you alert, protein is a must-have before any interview (or before the start of any day for that matter). When compared to eating a high-carb breakfast, protein knocked it out of the park in terms of keeping people awake as it contains fewer tryptophan levels than carbs. Foods that contain high levels of protein include nuts, beans, fish, meat, and of course, eggs. 6. Water Last but not least on our list is the source of all life, water. Many place too much emphasis on boosting their caffeine levels in the morning and not enough on just plain water intake. The recommended daily water intake is two liters, half a gallon, or eight 8-ounce glasses, and while you dont want to consume all of this right before your interview, make sure to get at least a couple of glasses in.   Side note on caffeine: If you’re used to the caffeine, then have your regular amount of coffee. However, it’s never a good idea to try something new the day of a big event. So if youre looking for something that will give you that edge, don’t over consume on the coffee as it will only give you the shakes and jitters- probably not the edge you were hoping for. Want to get all of the super foods above in one meal? Here are some ideas: Smoothie:  A  smoothie can be  more than just berries and  yogurt (whole milk is preferred). Explore adding in ground flaxseed (omega-3), chia seeds (fiber, protein, omega-3, and one of the most nutritious foods available), lots of spinach or greens, and protein powder. Yogurt: To amp up the health benefits of yogurt, try mixing in flaxseed, chia seed, berries, and other fruit such as banana. Oatmeal: Although high in fiber, lets face it: oatmeal (were talking real oats, not sugar-coated oats that come in that little brown package) is nowhere close to making it on the list of exciting foods to eat. However, theres lots of room for growth for oatmeal and adding in one or more of the suggestions below can turn this boring meal into a gourmet treat. Add in: flaxseed, chia seeds, fruit, nuts (walnuts and almonds best), and even peanut butter for an extra protein boost! Hard-Boiled Eggs: This quick, easy, and gentle-on-the-stomach (for those with the interview jitters) food can be a great add-on to any of the breakfast ideas above. Toast:  A  simple piece of toast (whole grain or sprouted is best), with either a fried egg, avocado, or peanut butter will provide you with the monosaturated fats and protein you need to ace your interview. While youre chowing down, check out these additional job interviewing tips.