Pine nuts are considered a superfood. According to research nuts not only reduce cholesterol but also help with stress, which is very important for work, study, and everyday tasks. Try Siberian pine nuts – they contain zinc, manganese, iodine, and useful unsaturated fatty acids that boost cognitive functions. That’s why a daily portion of pine nuts helps concentration.
Chewing sunflower seeds is a truly Russian habit – it’s like a form of mediation. Separating the kernels from the shells with your teeth and tongue is a real skill. Spitting out the shells don’t look great so try to avoid doing it in public places. Sunflower seeds are rich in tryptophan, which stimulates the production of serotonin – this helps one to relax, releases nervous tension, and activates brain activity. Pumpkin seeds also contain zinc that helps to improve memory.. You can sprinkle the seeds over salads or eat them separately.
Still think that beetroot is only good for borscht and “herring under a fur coat?” Thing again. Beetroot is packed full of betaine, which is good for circulation.
Russians eat raw beetroot (make a smoothie or combine with other vegetables), as well as boiled, adding it to salads. Both are delicious.
Carrot is not only healthy but it improves night vision... It also contains luteolin, which again is good for one’s memory. Carrots contain carotene that boosts the immune system and has anti-inflammatory qualities. In Russia, it’s very popular to eat salads made from raw or boiled grated carrot with sour cream or oil.
Berries improve memory and help stave off depressionTry sour cranberries, ripe raspberries, and bright sea buckthorn from Russia’s North. They are full of vitamin C and active antioxidants. If you work all day at the computer, it’s definitely worth eating some blueberries, which have a positive effect not only on the brain but also on vision.
Tvorog, or cottage cheese, is very popular in Russia. It contains amino acids called choline and methionine, which protect the brain from degenerative processes. Eat tvorog as it is, or add berries and sour cream. Russians also use it for syrniki and pie fillings. The most delicious tvorog is high in fat, up to 18 percent.
Everyone knows Russians love to add dill to everything, but herbs are good for you – they contain substances which improve circulation and cognition. Still against dill? Try parsley and cilantro instead, add them to a salad or just chew them like gum.
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