Basic Skill Set to Improve Concentration – Supplying the Physical Brain.

Concentration is a mental function

that is performed by the physical brain

Therefore, when addressing the issue of how to improve concentration, we should, logically address the needs of both these aspects of our being.

Since many tend to discount the importance of the physical body in performing mental functions, lets tackle this first:

1. The brain, even more than other organs, is dependent on proper blood flow. It is imperative that we ensure all of the parameters that allow us to maintain it. These include regular exercise and proper blood pressure.

2. Proper blood flow provides the brain with nutrients, oxygen, and efficient waste disposal.

3. The exercise should provide for oxygen, so what we need to do further, is make sure that our diet is rich in sufficient “brain food”. So what is brain food, anyway?

   Nutrition for the brain can be broken down into 2 major categories: Fuel for immediate tasks and building blocks for protection and maintenance.

   1. The fuel may vary with the tasks at hand, but it all comes down to sugar. Only dextrose, can pass the brain-blood barrier that keeps the bad guys out of your head. Complex carbohydrates like oatmeal are great. If you can’t stand oat meal, fresh fruit (say banana) are good, too.

      However, we also need the help of hormones and neurotransmitters that the body builds from critical building blocks. These come from a wide range of sources like fish, poultry, nuts, fruits and dairy products. Unfortunately, with the preponderance of mineral depleted soil and genetically engineered fruits, vegetables and livestock, I personally take high quality food supplements to be sure that I get what I need. This comes in the form of a daily dose of vitamin-mineral complex. I can only recommend what I take myself. What is important is that you find something you are happy with. When in doubt consult a nutritionist. If you take medications, consult your doctor ( and please, try and find a doctor who has some training in nutrition – most do not).

   2. Protection and maintenance, also are partially taken care of by the vitamin-mineral complex of your choice. The most important protective item is anti-oxidants. Here again, I personally use supplements, derived from highest quality fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and other natural sources.

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