Understanding your unique brain type can unlock unprecedented potential in how you approach learning, test-taking, and overall cognitive performance. As International Baccalaureate (IB) students, you are tasked with tackling a challenging two-year programme that includes numerous examinations. Let’s explore how nutritional choices aligned with your brain type can optimise your performance in these exams.
Discovering Your Brain Type
First, we must tackle the task of discovering your unique brain type. Based on brain imaging work, Dr. Daniel Amen identified 16 Brain Types, five primary types and eleven combination types. Understanding your type provides valuable insights into your mental health risks, behavioural patterns, and interactions with others. To find out your specific type, take the Brain Health Assessment.
Nutritional Strategies for Each Brain Type
Once you’ve identified your brain type, you can tailor your nutritional intake to support optimal brain health and cognitive function. Let’s review the best foods, dietary recommendations, and supplements for the five primary brain types:
Balanced Brain – Type 1
A well-rounded diet with a balance of high-quality proteins, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats suits this type best. A diet for this type should include high-quality proteins like chicken, fish, and tofu; complex carbohydrates such as quinoa, brown rice, and whole wheat pasta; and healthy fats from avocados, nuts, and seeds. Supplement-wise, Brain & Body Power and ProBrainBiotics are recommended.
Spontaneous Brain – Type 2
This type benefits from more high-quality proteins, plenty of healthy fats, and little to no simple carbohydrates. This brain type should incorporate more high-quality proteins like turkey, salmon, and eggs; plenty of healthy fats found in foods like olive oil, almonds, and chia seeds; and they should aim to avoid simple carbohydrates, reducing intake of white bread, sugary snacks, and sodas. Brain & Body Power and Focus & Energy are ideal supplements.
Persistent Brain – Type 3
A higher complex carbohydrate, lower protein diet boosts serotonin levels and helps this brain type. For this type, a diet rich in complex carbohydrates and lower in protein is best. This might include foods like oatmeal, sweet potatoes, and whole grains, with moderate protein sources like beans and lentils. Recommended supplements include Brain & Body Power and Serotonin Mood Support.
Sensitive Brain – Type 4
A balanced diet of high-quality proteins and complex carbohydrates is ideal. This type should strive for a balanced diet that includes high-quality proteins like lean meats and plant-based proteins; complex carbohydrates such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains; and healthy fats from sources like walnuts, flaxseeds, and fatty fish. This type should supplement with Brain & Body Power and SAMe Mood & Movement 400.
Cautious Brain – Type 5
Similar to Type 4, this type benefits from a balanced diet and supplements with Brain & Body Power and GABA Calming Support. Much like Type 4, this brain type also benefits from a balanced diet of high-quality proteins (chicken, beans), complex carbohydrates (leafy greens, whole fruits), and healthy fats (avocados, olives).
These recommendations aim to help you take control of your brain health, which directly impacts your performance in the IB programme.
The Power of Brain Nutrition in the IB Programme
For an IB student, navigating a challenging academic programme, every edge matters. A typical student in the IB Diploma Programme will write an average of 15 exams in the final exam period, and a total of over 60 exams during the two year programme. This puts immense strain on the brain and requires every possible strategy to maximise performance.
Research has increasingly shown the impact of nutrition on cognitive function, memory, and concentration – essential elements for performing well on exams. By aligning your diet and supplements with your unique brain type, you’re providing your brain the best fuel to perform optimally. However, nutrition is just one part of the puzzle.
To ensure a holistic approach, academic tutoring from experienced tutors can provide the necessary support for exam preparation. At AlumnIBtutors, our experienced educators understand the rigours of the IB program and can guide you every step of the way.
A Comprehensive Approach with AlumnIBtutors
At AlumnIBtutors, we understand that no two students are alike – from learning style to brain type, you are unique. Hence, we offer tailored guidance that takes into account your individual learning needs, including personalised tutoring and mentorship that considers your brain type and how it can best be supported.
Incorporating these brain type nutritional strategies with the help of our experienced tutors will provide a comprehensive approach to improving your IB exam performance. Our team is excited to help you embark on this journey and to support you in achieving the best outcomes in your IB program.