大象传媒

More likely to make you sleepy

大象传媒 News Online asked Dr Wendy Doyle, of the British Dietetic Association, whether it really is possible to eat to succeed.

Fish:

According to the survey, sales of tuna, cod, plaice and mackerel have all soared.

Dr Doyle concedes that there may be some truth in this idea.

Many fish contain omega-3 fatty acids which are known to play a role in keeping the connections between brain cells sharp.

Long-term preparation is essential

Unfortunately, however, this isn't an effect you can achieve by wolfing down a couple of fish suppers in the weeks leading up to an exam.

To achieve real results the key is to start early - two or three months before conception should do the trick.

"I'm not sure there is any evidence of any immediate effect on memory or mood from eating omega-3 fatty acids," said Dr Doyle.

"But they are good for the developing brain of the fetus, and during the first year of life.

"It would be best for mothers to start eating fish before they intended to get pregnant."

Green vegetables:

Broccoli, asparagus, and spinach were also popular among students looking to boost their brain power in the kitchen.

Again, there is some evidence to suggest that these products are good for the brain, mainly because they contain anti-oxidants which help to maintain a healthy blood supply to the grey matter.

However, Dr Doyle warned that they were no quick fix.

"You would have to be eating them for some time as part of a healthy diet to notice any effect," she said.

Peanut butter:

Strangely, this made the Tesco list alongside some of the more predictable candidates.

Unfortunately, it was rated as a complete no-no by Dr Doyle.

"Peanut butter contains mono-unsaturated fats. I can't see any reason why they should provide any assistance whatsoever to our brain."

Full English breakfast:

Some people believe that you can't get a better start to the day that good old fashioned fry up complete with bacon, eggs, sausages and beans.

Dr Doyle is not one of them. "A full English breakfast is not going to make you more alert," she said. "In fact, it is likely to make you feel rather sluggish."

Junk food:

E minus for effort

Controversial maybe, but University of Florida researchers found students given a high-calorie, low-nutrition lunch performed better in maths and English tests than children given a healthier alternative.

The theory is that junk food provides a carbohydrate boost which can help re-fuel the brain's energy supplies.

But while many of us would love to think that a quick burger and chips is the best way to boost academic performance, Dr Doyle is far from convinced.

"You usually get more of a fat and sugar hit from junk food than a carbohydrate hit," she said.

Beer:

Not necessarily as ridiculous as it seems. A study by Northumbria University found that drinking half a pint of lager improves brainpower by 20%.

There is also some evidence that moderate drinking can reduce the risk of developing Alzheimer's in later life.

But once again the theory cut little ice with Dr Doyle.

"I really don't think it is a good idea to encourage people to drink," she said. "The trouble with university students is that they don't know when to stop."

The best solution:

The recipe for success

So what is the best thing you can eat before revision or an exam?

The answer, of course, are low glycaemic starchy carbohydrates.

Or, put another way, foods which will give you a steady supply of energy without sending your blood sugar levels soaring or dipping. This should help you concentrate even under the most intense of pressure.

"They will keep you satisfied for a long time, which is essential if you are just about to go into a three hour exam," said Dr Doyle.

And the best source of these miracle foods? Breakfast cereal and toast. Looks like Mum was right all along.