7 Summertime Super Foods to Give Your CPA Exam Review a Boost

It’s prime season for outdoor grilling and picnics.

Here are a 7 delicious “super foods” that will give your brain a cognitive boost and help you learn and retain more as you prepare to tackle your CPA exam review.

(Combine a super food diet with regular exercise and you’ll be in great shape by the end of the summer.)

1. Avocados

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, is a leading cause of cognitive decline. Avocados are a delicious fatty fruit that have been proven to help lower your blood pressure. It goes great as part of a salad or sandwich. Just don’t forget that avocadoes are high in calories, so a half or quarter may be all you need to include in your CPA studying snack.

2. Wild Salmon

Deep-water fish like salmon are rich in omega-3 essential fatty acids, which aid brain function. Wild salmon is also perfect for summer grilling. The smokiness adds flavor and it’s great with just some salt and pepper or in a sauce of your choice.

3. Blueberries

In season during these summer months, blueberries are one of the best foods you can eat to protect your brain from oxidative stress and may reduce the effects of age-related conditions such as Alzheimer’s disease. A handful of “brainberries” on top of cereal or just as a light, refreshing snack is all you need each day.

4. Seeds & Nuts

Did you know that PB&J you had for lunch is the perfect fuel for your CPA study sessions? Studies concur that nuts and seeds are high in vitamin E, which you need to fight cognitive decline as you age. Do your best to eat an ounce a day of walnuts, hazelnuts, Brazil nuts, filberts, almonds, cashews, peanuts, sunflower seeds—whatever you like. Peanut butter, almond butter and tahini count, too!

5. Whole Grains

Heart disease is not only a primary killer around the world but it also contributes to a decline in brain health. Whole grains like oatmeal, certain breads, and brown rice can reduce your risk for heart disease and improve blood flow to the brain. The recommended amount: 1/2 cup of whole-grain cereal or 2-3 slices of bread a day. If you’re avoiding gluten, eat more cereals and brown rice.

6. Beans

Beans should be a staple for everyone’s pantry. Not only are they great for any sort of bean salad or tasty summer Mexican dish, beans also stabilize your blood sugar, the main fuel for your brain. During these summer study months, ensure you keep your brain well powered with a ½ cup or so of beans throughout the day.

7. Dark Chocolate

Mmmm. Here’s the best part of this list! Dark chocolate truly is a super food with powerful antioxidant properties and natural stimulants (caffeine, etc). It has been show to improve focus and concentration while boosting endorphins. As little as one ounce a day is enough to produce noticeable benefits.

Summer is the perfect season to give your diet and brain health a much-needed boost. It’ll go a long way in helping you gain the stamina you need to tackle the CPA exam.