We all have days when it feels like we’re stuck in a rut, unable to get anything done. Maybe it’s the bed weather, a random series you promised to watch just one more episode, or merely the fact that you are tired or distracted. 

Procrastination is an archrival of productivity, and when it comes to procrastinating, many factors lead to this nemesis.

One overlooked risk factor is poor nutrition. In fact, research contends there is a moderate to strong association between exercise, nutrition, and procrastination. 

So if you’re looking for ways to get back on track and become more focused, just eat what you should. Here are four foods to help you stay productive and fight procrastination:

 

1. Leafy greens

 

Leafy green vegetables such as kale, spinach, and lettuce are high in potassium, which helps make your brain more responsive by accelerating connections between neurons. They are also rich in lutein, a key player in improving learning, memory, and brain function.

A study of 3,718 subjects showed that people who ate two servings of vegetables daily had the mental focus of people five years their junior.

 

2. Fermented foods

 

Have you ever felt so overwhelmed or stressed that you can’t even get yourself to start a task? It’s no surprise that stress can make people more likely to procrastinate, and the more we procrastinate, the more we become anxious. It’s a dangerous loop.

Well, fermented foods, such as plain yoghurt with active cultures and kimchi, contain live bacteria that can enhance healthy gut function and decrease anxiety. The less anxious you are, the better you become at dealing with stress and beating procrastination.

 

3. Tuna and salmon

 

The brain is the fattiest organ in the body. Experts believe that 60% of it is made up of fat, 25% of which is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), an omega-3 fatty acid. Both tuna fish and salmon are rich in DHA, which keeps cell membranes flexible, increases communication between nerve cells and the brain, and helps with mental sharpness, memory retention, and emotional regulation.

As a matter of fact, a study reveals that levels of DHA are correlated positively with attention. In contrast, lowers levels of DHA are associated with more severe symptoms of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder.

 

4. Dark chocolate

 

Eating dark chocolates must be the most delicious way of beating procrastination. Dark chocolates are mighty rich in flavonols content, even higher compared to blueberries.

Flavonol is linked to improved executive functioning, attention, and memory. It is also known to counteract cognitive decline and sustain cognitive abilities. Additionally, it serves as a protective factor in sleep loss-related cognitive performance impairment. So if you feel lack of sleep is the problem, worry no more!

 

Takeaway

 

Unfortunately, there’s no magic bullet that will prevent procrastination. But with a little planning, you can make the time you have more efficient. Fight procrastination by making a comprehensive to-do list, prioritizing it, and then breaking it down into manageable chunks. Designate one part of your day for work—and keep all your distractions away from it. Last but definitely not least, choose brain foods that help with willpower, focus, and mental functioning.

Now that you know the best foods for fighting procrastination, it’s time to stop procrastinating your way to proper nutrition. Contact us and make your day more productive with Australia’s leading producers and distributors of premium, ready-made meals.