Expert: Chef Jenny Ross - 3/4/2009

Question
Hello Jenny.

I would like to eat healthy because I've recently discovered that the body and
mind work together. I jog every day for 30 minutes and I eat fruits and veggie
foods, as well as a lot of fish, seafood, some chicken and carbs. I stopped
eating meat for several years and have no intentions of going back. Anyway, I
seem to have a hard time concentrating when I'm at college and I understand
that there are foods that will help me stay focused in college.

Can you please help me with a diet plan that will accomplish this?


Best regards,

Julian

Answer
Julian-
Great, if you have made this discovery in college you are years ahead of so many people!
Some great raw energy sources of protein, chlorophyll and amino acids = focus, include:

Flax Seeds and Oil: I recommend doing a great supergreen smoothie in the morning and adding this (see below). This can also be found in several energy bars, and some breads now. Contains Omegas and essential fatty acids.

Hemp seeds, Hemp protein, hemp oil: Similar to the flax, they have a great protein powder of this now that is much better than whey.

Superfoods: Green Powders like spirulina are great, maca root, bee pollen and raw chocolate. These can all be found at healthfood stores and should be raw. Add these to the smoothie- try a different one each day and you will notice a great improvement.

Dark Leafy Greens: Spinach, Kale and Collard Greens- These are great because they are high in protein and chlorophyll making them easy for the body to digest quickly. The best use is in a salad- just make sure to add lots of good healthy fats to the salad like avocado, raw nuts, and raw olives.

A few things to avoid: Caffeine, White Flour- breads, Chips and Fried Foods- These will all derail your ability for the brain to function at an optimal level.

There are certain products like Brain on by E3 live that are good and you can check their website at www.e3live.com.

Here is a great morning smoothie to get you going that also tastes good-
1 Banana
1 Mango or 2 Cups Pineapple
1 Tbsp Agave Nectar (low glycemic sweetener)
2 Leaves Lacinato Kale or 1 Cup Spinach Leaves
1 Cup Ice or Young Thai Coconut Water (if you use ice put in 1/4 cup water or juice to help blend)
2 Tbsp Superfoods (Maca, Green Powder, Hemp Protein, etc.)

I hope that helps- if you would like more detailed information or have further questions feel free to email me at info@shop118degrees.com.

Peace and Blessings
Chef Jenny