As a busy professional, you need to multitask all day long. You're meeting clients, making presentations, and more. And, you also often spend time juggling work and family tasks at home, too. Balancing your professional and personal lives can be exhausting. Naturally there will be times when your brain feels a bit sluggish.

When that happens, our reflex is to reach for the quickest brain booster at hand—usually coffee, cola, or the so-called power drinks with extra caffeine.

But what if you were able to reach quickly for a snack that gave your brain the fuel it craved and was healthy to boot? It turns out that it’s not only possible, but these healthy brain fuel snacks will bring you the short-term lift you seek and also longer term gains in brain health.

Six brain fuel snacks for brokers on-the-go:

1. Blueberries top many lists when it comes to brain foods. Research has shown that blueberries and strawberries help protect the brain from the type of stress that may lead to dementia or Alzheimer's disease. In addition, recent animal research indicates that blueberries also may contribute to faster learning, sharper thinking and improved memory retention. Who doesn’t need that?

2. Organic seeds and nuts, especially walnuts and almonds. These healthy snacks contain natural sources of vitamin E which, research shows, affect memory. Walnuts also promote healthy blood flow, a key component of brain health. Prepackaged small packs of nuts and seeds containing a serving per pack such as those found at specialty markets make this a fast food option that provides a satisfying shot of energy.

3. Protein shakes that are at least 50 percent protein provide an energy boost when your brain starts to flag. Look for shakes made primarily from whey and casein if you are not allergic to milk. If you are lactose intolerant, soy-based shakes work well.

4. Dark chocolate—with at least 70 percent cocoa—is a favorite indulgence. It turns out that very dark chocolate contains “flavonoids,” a type of antioxidant that research links to brain health. (Other flavonoid-rich foods include apples, red and purple grapes, and tea.) Up to half an ounce of very dark chocolate a day even has been shown to lower blood pressure. So indulge—in moderation.

5. Sardines are a tasty and super healthy brain snack. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, sardines are great for your brain and also help you maintain a healthy heart by keeping arteries free of fatty buildups and promoting good blood flow. Sardines come in small cans—sometimes packed in olive oil and sometimes in a tomato base. Pop open a can and try some on whole grain crackers.

6. Crab is a surprising addition to our list. Try indulging in a crab cake snack. Why? One serving of crab has 1840 milligrams of phenylalanine, an amino acid needed to make dopamine, a brain neurotransmitter. Crab also boosts adrenaline and noradrenaline and your thyroid hormone. With all those benefits, a crab cake on a healthy whole grain cracker is a great way to lift your energy and your spirits.

Satisfying and energizing

Coffee and colas can provide that jolt for a short period of time, but you may notice that after the initial jolt wears off, your brain flags quickly—prompting you to reach for the caffeine again and again.

Brain fuel snacks, on the other hand, feel more satisfying and last much longer as an energizing lift. So try switching to brain fuel snacks when your brain could use a boost, and help maintain your brain health for good!