In our current culture, it’s almost as if we are training ourselves toward distraction. More and more people are beginning to struggle with the inability to focus on a task without getting off track or succumbing to the constant stream of stimuli we encounter every day. 

You may sit down to accomplish whatever is on your “to do” list that day, but find yourself interrupted and drawn away from the task at hand by texts, emails, phone calls, the latest news, or even an annoying advertisement.

Maybe you just can’t seem to concentrate on whatever you’re working on: school, work, writing, research...because your mind just wanders on it’s own.

It may be that without realizing it, you are practicing things that decrease your focus. Try some of these natural remedies to help improve focus and concentration.

1. Feed Your Brain

“You are what you eat” is not just an outdated saying. There is usually some truth to these things. If you’re filling your body with highly processed, artificial food, and food high in refined sugar, your brain doesn’t get the good stuff. When it comes down to it, with every bite you can either nourish your brain or contribute to its depletion.

Eating lots of fruits and vegetables and other “whole” foods feed your body (and your brain) with nutrients that improve your function overall, and when your brain is happy, your focus will improve. 

Some especially brain healthy foods are eggs, berries, kale, salmon, nuts, avocado, and olive oil. These “brain foods” are proven to contain antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that help your brain thrive.

2. Have Some Green Tea

It’s no secret that caffeine is used by anyone and everyone to help improve productivity and just to “wake up” after you get out of bed. But while coffee is usually the caffeinated drink of choice, it has high levels of caffeine and can also contribute to some negative effects such as anxiety and insomnia.

A moderate amount of caffeine is more ideal way to boost your concentration. Green tea contains less caffeine than coffee, but still has enough to increase your alertness, focus, and productivity.

Green tea also contains an amino acid called L-theanine. When working with caffeine, L-theanine can improve brain function. So boost your focus by drinking tea!

3. Stay Hydrated

The human brain is 75% water. Your body and mind will function on a higher level if you drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated. Besides improving your digestion, giving you softer skin, and strengthening your immune system, staying hydrated boosts your mental alertness and helps you concentrate.

Begin your day with a good amount of water, then fill your water bottle and keep drinking throughout the day. Also be sure to drink plenty of water before and after exercise, to replenish lost fluids.

Aren’t crazy about plain water? Try infusing fresh fruit with your water (remember berries are brain super food!) or making fruit or herb infused ice cubes to kick up your water up a notch.

And here are a few recipes to try:  Strawberry Mint Water, Blueberry Orange Water, and Raspberry Lime Infused Water.

4. Take Herbal Supplements

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