Say it ain’t so, collegiettes, but finals week is here. With papers, projects and exams on our plates, the amount of stress we’re all under can reach ridiculous levels. While I know that each and every one of you have been studying your butts off and are going to ace your classes, a little extra help never hurt anybody. I’ve compiled a list of the absolute best foods to eat during the week and before your finals to make sure you crush all of those exams. The foods that we’ve included here will not only satisfy your late-night Library West munchies, but will also help you focus and retain more information while you’re hitting those books!
Dark Chocolate
Probably one of the best foods on this list, studies have shown that eating dark chocolate will actually increase blood flow to your brain, which in turn makes you more alert while studying. Dark chocolate can also help improve your memory while also being yummy and delicious.
Avocado
Splurging for the guac at Chipotle doesn’t seem like such a bad idea when you find out avocados are delicious and can also wake up your brain cells. Studies show that eating avocado increases blood flow to the brain and can keep you awake and alert for hours, making it a great brain food.
Blueberries
The antioxidants found in blueberries make them the perfect study snack because they can help boost your memory and concentration for up to five hours. Eating just a handful of blueberries will increase blood flow to your brain and keep you alert and refreshed during the day.
Fish
Fish is a perfect lunch or dinner choice to have before your finals. Not only does eating fish improve your mood and concentration, but it can also help improve your memory and curb your fatigue. Sushi anyone?
Apples
Apples are for A’s. Eating apples, more specifically apple peels, while you study has been proven to help improve your memory. Apples can also boost your energy, making this a great snack to keep you awake during late-night study sessions.
Whole grain cereal
Not only are whole grain cereals like Cheerios a great on-the-go study snack, but they’re also perfect for boosting your energy. Good kinds of whole grains can keep you concentrated, alert and focused the entire day.
Bananas
The potassium found in bananas makes them a perfect finals week dietary staple. Potassium is credited with improving brain function and keeping you sharp as a tack. Take a banana and a squeezable pack of peanut butter in your backpack for a library pick-me-up.
Nuts
Walnuts, cashews and almonds are all great study foods to keep on hand throughout the week. Studies have shown that nuts can help boost blood flow to the brain and increase your memory. Just a handful of these a day can keep you alert and refreshed throughout your study session.
Beets
Although the most unconventional food on this list, you won’t regret tossing a couple of beets in your next salad. Eating beets can increase blood flow to your brain and help you to retain more information as you’re studying. Beets can also improve your stamina, making sure you’re ready for your all night study sessions. Dwight Schrute would be so proud.
Don’t forget to make sure you keep some of these yummy treats in your bag during the week. Best of luck on finals, ladies! Have a great winter break and a happy New Year!
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