With finals just around the corner, late nights in the library and lounges are sure to be on everyone’s agenda. There are some easy-to-make foods that can keep your brain power going strong and your sleep-deprived body full of energy. If anything, always drink a glass of water first thing in the morning, your body dehydrates during the night. Water helps flush out toxins, keeps the body alert and boosts metabolism.
Healthy eating habits tend to take a dive during finals week, but by switching your chips, cookies, energy drinks and Easy Mac with these quick and easy snacks, you can help your body feel better.
– Apples and peanut butter
– Tuna
– Protein bars
– Carrots and ranch
Foods that help brain function:
– Colorful fruits, especially cantaloupe, watermelon, tomatoes, plums, pineapple and kiwi, assist in the quick recall of information.
– Avocados are known to direct blood flow to the brain due to their high monounsaturated fat levels.
– Blueberries help improve motor skills and strawberries help in memory recollection
– Dark chocolate releases endorphins, which can help increase focus and concentration.
– Any food with iron in it (beans or red meat) is shown to help the brain speed up think processes.
Falling asleep? Drop that coffee or energy drink! Tea is a better caffeinated choice. It releases nutrients that help mentally relax and improves focus and memory. Look for green tea – it is full of antioxidants.
Remember what they say:
– Studying should be in 20 – 50 minute increments. Even if you can’t do this (we all cram) taking a five to 10 minute break (that doesn’t involve Facebook!) can keep your energy going. Take walk outside, get some fresh air, or do jumping jacks to get your blood flowing.
– Associations – if you study listening to certain music, in a specific location or smelling a certain scent, your brain associates the information you study with the environmental cues around you. Listening to the same music while taking your exams, taking them in the same location or smelling the same scent (see below!), can help you remember information easier.
Memory boosting scents:
– Grapefruit
– Peppermint
– Basil
