Brain Food: Helpful Hints for Powering Through Those College Finals

• Press Release
• Source: US Tuna Council
• On Wednesday December 3, 2008, 9:00 am EST

WASHINGTON, DC--(MARKET WIRE)--Dec 3, 2008 -- As finals season arrives and college students retreat to library cubicles, many are open to just about anything that can help them weather those next few weeks. Instead of late night cram sessions full of midnight pizza and instant soups, consider some recent health studies demonstrating how students can score better on those big exams. Often touted as a heart-friendly food, studies are now finding fish is just as important for the brain as part of an "intellectually nutritious diet." Researchers recognize that several nutrients found in fish may positively affect the brain, including improving memory, concentration and performance.

Joseph Hibbeln, who heads the nutritional neurochemistry section for the National Institutes of Health, has found new research on DHA omega-3 fatty acids, good fats found in fish. According to Hibbeln, "seafood deficient diets" may be having negative consequences in the U.S. Studies show that brain health dramatically improves by increasing DHA omega-3s, which makes brain membranes flexible and optimizes electrical signaling.

Fish is one of the few foods that contain an abundance of omega-3s as well as all eight amino acids. Studies show that the omega-3s found in tuna can provide students with a brain boost that allows them to power through exams. Ideal for college students' hectic lifestyle, canned tuna is one of the most convenient, versatile and affordable protein source for those study break munchies.

 
--  Ready to Eat: Tuna can easily be incorporated into a variety of meals
    or snacks. Perfect to spread on crackers, include in a salad or add to a
    sandwich or pita, tuna can be a delicious and easy option.
--  On the Run: Available in a variety of on-the-go convenient packaging
    options including individual serving cups, pouches and in ready-to-serve
    flavors like lemon-pepper or Thai, tuna is easily transported. The
    individual pouches are perfect for evening study groups or grab-and-go
    backpack snacks.
--  Hunger Buster: Research shows that eating protein-rich foods like
    canned tuna for lunch can help with satiety and slow down digestion keeping
    you fuller longer. Leaving you less hungry and likely to eat fewer calories
    at your next meal, tuna is therefore the perfect addition so you can focus
    on studying and not a growling stomach!
--  Food for the Times: Tuna is a great substitute for fatty meats and
    full-fat dairy products, which are higher in saturated fats and trans fatty
    acids. As a high-protein, low-calorie and nutrient-rich food, tuna also
    provides a variety of health benefits sure to keep you energized this
    winter. In addition to omega-3s' cognitive benefits, this nutrient provides
    heart health benefits and prevents disease to keep you healthy this winter.

The National Fisheries Institute's (NFI) Tuna Council, previously known as the U.S. Tuna Foundation, is dedicated to educating American families about canned tuna safety, sustainability and nutrition. Visit www.TunaFacts.com for additional information.

     Contact:
     Lauren Smaron
     202-530-4572