For some of us, summertime means a break from school, but with September and the new school year almost upon us, it may be time to get your mind back into top shape. This year, you can give your memory an edge and yourself a head start by making a few small changes in your daily habits.

Brain-boosting Tip #1: Eat breakfast! Your brain runs on food, and breakfast provides the fuel it needs to gear back up after fasting all night.

Brain-boosting Tip #2: Good fats are your friend. Foods high in “good fats” keep your brain, which is composed of 60 percent fat, in top condition. Eggs, oily fish like salmon and sardines, and almonds are good sources of brain-boosting fatty acids. These foods are also rich in choline, a chemical that is fundamental to strong memory.

Brain-boosting Tip #3: Your mom was right – eat more fruits and vegetables! Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants that help to neutralize brain-damaging free radicals, like environmental toxins. Try to get five to nine servings a day of orange fruits, red fruits and dark leafy vegetables (combined).

Brain-boosting tip #4: Sleep Smart! Rapid eye movement, or REM, sleep is when your brain processes new memories, and practices new skills. To ensure you enter REM Sleep, get the doctor-recommended seven to nine hours each night for optimal brain-power each day.

Brain-boosting Tip #5: Exercise your body to strengthen your mind. Exercise promotes the growth of new brain cells and boosts the flow of oxygen to your brain. Just 30 minutes of aerobic activity, three times a week, can provide you with brain-boosting benefits.

Brain-boosting tip #6: Exercise your brain. Give your mind a daily workout. Do a crossword puzzle or challenge a friend to a game of trivial pursuit. Bonus: You can get even more out of these exercises by listening to classical music, which improves mathematical and spatial reasoning.

Get off to the best possible start this year by incorporating brain-boosting foods and stimulating activities into your daily routine. For more ways to get smart quick, check out these articles and videos:

• Video: Make Your Memory Mighty from illumistream health
• 10 Steps to Improve Creativity from Jenni idea management
• The Top 10 Most Effective Study Habits from PsychCentral.com