Have you ever found yourself nodding off at your desk? Or maybe just struggling to stay focused on that report you’ve been working on? More than likely, you’ve experienced the struggle of brain fog and the blow it can have on your productivity. And to make matters worse, our go-to fixes like caffeine and sugar actually only make it worse. Here are some ideas to beat and prevent the dreaded brain fog.
Quick Fixes to Bust Through Brain Fog
Sit Pretty
Yes, your mom was right, your posture does matter. Even if you have a standing desk like Xdesk, chances are you’ll find yourself sitting occasionally. When you sit, make sure that your knees are at a 90-degree angle with your feet flat on the floor, and sit tall to ensure your hands lay comfortably on your keyboard. This will help improve circulation and even breathing, which both can help your brain function more effectively.
Stand Up and Move
Standing, even for just a few minutes throughout the day, can counteract the negative side effects of sitting, including brain fog. Adding that simple form of physical exercise can help burn off the stress hormone cortisol and stimulate new brain cell formation—both of which can lead to brain fog. If you have an adjustable height standing desk like Xdesk, just spend a few minutes standing, or get up and go walk around the office for a minute or so. Even better, take a step outside. Sunshine and fresh air can do wonders for your mood and help clear your mind.
Nosh Nutritiously
Contrary to popular belief, that soda or cup of coffee actually won’t really help you beat brain fog. The sugar and caffeine might give you a temporary boost, but you’ll likely feel even worse once it wears off. Avoid the sugar crash and just eat a healthy snack. Fresh foods—not packaged or processed—are best. Snacks with protein, like beef jerky and hard-boiled eggs, or good kinds of fats like nuts and cottage cheese, and great to give your brain and body much needed nutrients without the insulin spike and inevitable crash caused by carbs and sugar.
Stretch it Out
Stretching is a great way to get energy circulating in your body. Stretch your arms over your head, touch your toes, rotate your head different ways to stretch your neck, whatever feels good to get your blood flowing again. There are even some really simple yoga poses you can do at your desk.
Tips to Keep Your Brain Healthy and Prevent Brain Fog
Say No to Sugar
Sugar and sugar-containing products are some of the worst culprits for brain fog. This includes carbs and starches, which elicit a similar response to sugar in your body. Combat the draw of the vending machine by keeping healthy, nutrient-rich snacks available at your desk. In addition to the high-protein and healthy fat options from above, you can try fresh vegetables like carrots, celery, and bell peppers with hummus.
Exercise Regularly
One of the most important things you can do to keep your brain healthy and performing at its best is regular exercise. Physical exercise can increase endorphins and deliver more glucose and oxygen to your brain. Even if you can’t squeeze in a consecutive 30 minutes or so at the gym, just break up the sedentary parts of your day with a walk or stretches to experience similar benefits. The main point? Get moving!
Supplement
Sometimes, brain fog can be a side effect of missing nutrients. If you struggle with brain fog often, it might be worthwhile to visit a nutritionist to evaluate your diet and see if you need any supplementation. Some common brain-boosting supplements include:
Vitamins D and B-12: These are both essential to brain health and supplementing common deficiencies.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids: These are found in high concentrations in the brain and are crucial to memory and overall brain health and function.
MultiVitamin: This will help fill in any nutritional gaps for when you don’t eat as well as you should.
Hydrate
Research has shown that dehydration can lead to fatigue. Make sure you drink enough water throughout the day that you don’t feel thirsty. And no, this doesn’t mean coffee or tea, which both can actually dehydrate you!
Having an adjustable height desk like Xdesk makes beating brain fog easy. Breaking up your time spent sitting with short standing intervals is hugely beneficial to your overall health, productivity, and yes, brain clarity. Let us know your go-to ways to beat brain fog!
