Article and photos by Leimaile Guerrero
Like a hungry bear in spring, the exam season has made its unavoidable debut. Many students fall into the routine of cramming and stressing. Any attempts at healthy eating usually falls flat, as most people increase their intake of caffeine and a vast array of unhealthy and easy to attain foods.
Proper food choices however, can play a huge role in improving test scores. The brain and its neurons are constantly at work and are one of the hungriest human organs. Various studies have shown the following foods to increase memory, comprehension, and concentration, as well as also decrease stress and depression. Many of these foods are also sold on campus.
Studies conducted by the University of Massachusetts and other organizations have shown apples to be crucial to maintaining memory. Fruits and vegetables that contain high levels of antioxidants, are great sources to help maintain a healthy brain. Apples are also a great snack to keep your stomach full for a longer period of time. If you’re not the type to carry around an apple, try ordering a fresh fruit smoothie with a dose of apple juice.
Green tea has an amazing ability to induce relaxation without causing drowsiness. Green tea naturally contains caffeine and a unique amino acid known as L-Theanine. This natural combination can help to improve your mood, alertness, concentration, learning and memory while reducing stress and nervous tension.
Experiments conducted by the University of Houston have shown blueberries help improve your memory and also help recover short-term memory loss. Also, several medical journals that performed experiments on patients with deteriorating memory, also recorded an increase in learning among patients who drank blueberry juice. Luckily, blueberries can be found in many different snack friendly forms such as energy bars, dried fruit, granola or smoothies.
Fish and Omega-3 fatty acids
Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and other foods have been found to reduce depression. Several studies have shown omega-3 components increase the fluidity in the brain. Simply stated, omega-3 fatty acids are like an oil for the brain which can increase brain activity while decreasing inflammation and friction. Fish such as salmon, tuna and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids. Other sources include walnuts, spinach, soybeans, flaxseed oil, and broccoli.
Practicing good habits can give you the tools to achieve better test scores. Give yourself enough time to study, rest and consume a healthy diet. Planning meals ahead of time can also help to streamline your day.
Preparing your breakfast and snacks the day before will allow you to hit the books minus the stress. There are many people who tend to replace breakfast with an energy drink, but a good meal can help to sustain energy longer without a crash later in the day. Try some whole-grain toast with blueberry preserves or an antioxidant packed acai bowl.
Unfortunately, no matter what students decide to eat, no food will replace actually studying.