Feed your brain ⏲️ 6 Minute English

The *6 Minute English* episode "Feed Your Brain" explores the relationship between food and mental performance. It discusses how what we eat can influence our brain's health, energy levels, and cognitive functions.

### Key Points About Feeding Your Brain:
1. **The Brain's Energy Needs:**
- The brain uses about **20% of the body's energy** despite its small size.
- It relies on glucose, derived from carbohydrates, for its primary source of energy.

2. **Brain-Boosting Foods:**
- **Omega-3 Fatty Acids:** Found in fish like salmon, walnuts, and flaxseeds, these are crucial for brain development and function.
- **Antioxidants:** Berries, dark chocolate, and green tea help protect brain cells from damage.
- **Whole Grains:** Foods like oats and brown rice provide a steady release of energy, aiding concentration.

3. **Food and Mood:**
- Certain foods can influence mood and mental clarity. For example, eating too much sugar can lead to energy spikes followed by crashes, affecting focus and mood.
- On the other hand, eating a balanced diet rich in nutrients supports stable energy levels and emotional well-being.

4. **Hydration:**
- Staying hydrated is critical for brain function, as even mild dehydration can impair memory and concentration.

### Language Focus:
In an episode like this, learners might encounter vocabulary such as:
- **Health:** "nutrition," "balanced diet," "antioxidants."
- **Brain Function:** "cognitive performance," "focus," "memory."
- **Food Groups:** "carbohydrates," "fatty acids," "whole grains."

### Fun Fact:
Eating breakfast has been linked to improved performance in tasks requiring attention and memory. Skipping meals, especially breakfast, might leave your brain under-fueled.