More Photos: 'Brain Food' Propels Orono Chess Players to Top-Ten State Finish

Boys from Orono joined chess players from throughout Minnesota over the weekend to compete in the annual State Chess Tournament at Breck School.

Orono Middle School placed 8th out of 38 teams, and two students from Orono Intermediate School also participated.

The secret to Tavo Moline, Charles Apple, Ben Greiber, Kevin Cornelius, Edison Steele and Sam Christiansen's success?

Plenty of practice and a pre-tournament meal that included a carbo load and "brain food" ranging from chocolate and blueberries to broccoli.

A full list can be found below, along with some of the research compiled by  Ben Greiber in prepearation in advance of the tournament.

Sam Christianson had the best finish from Orono. He took 5 points at the weekend's State Tournament and received a regional award.

Click here for complete results. 

BRAIN FOODS

Blueberries—Blueberries serve a wide range of functions for improving mental function. Most notably, regular blueberry consumption has been shown to improve memory function. Furthermore, blueberries are rich in antioxidants, helping to prevent free radical damage. Still not convinced? Research has found that blueberries can also reverse age related declines in motor function, balance, and coordination.

Mixed nuts—Peanuts, walnuts, pecans, and other nuts contain properties that help with everything from fighting insomnia to promoting mental clarity and strong memory. Walnuts are rich in Omega-3 fatty acids while almonds contain natural mood-enhancing neurotransmitters.

Eggs—Egg yolks are rich in choline, an essential nutrient to improving memory function.

Whole grains—From oatmeal to whole grain bread, whole grains are excellent brain foods as they improve circulation and contain essential fibers, vitamins, and even some Omega-3.

Chocolate—For me, this is the yummiest brain food of all. Dark chocolate is antioxidant-rich, and it also improves focus and concentration. Milk chocolate, on the other hand, improves memory and reaction time.

Broccoli—Broccoli has been shown to improve memory function as well as slow the aging process. This means a broccoli-rich diet will keep you young and sharp.