This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Bucknell chapter.
Unfortunately for many of you reading this article, in my research to find the best foods for finals, I found that the three S’s: Starbucks, soda, and snacks (from the vending machine) were all big no-no’s. However, this does not mean that there are no options for you. There are plenty of websites that you can find by just a quick search on
Google that can provide you with all of the correct foods to eat. If you read this article, though, I have narrowed them down to the fruits that are most accessible for us at Bucknell.
1. Avocado: I know it is slightly tricky to get a nice, ripe avocado from the Bison. However, try grabbing some guacamole, or a vegetable roll from Suddenly Sushi. Avocados provide you with protein and beneficial fat to allow for better blood circulation within your body.
2. Blueberries: This fruit is high in fiber and doesn’t spike your blood sugar…why is this the only fruit the Bison doesn’t sell?
3. Nuts and Seeds: We all love the plethora of trail mix options in the Bison and the library café. Nuts have lots of fiber and beneficial fats. (Read: fats aren’t always bad for you!) Nuts are great for energy boosts that won’t fizzle down later. Almonds are the best. Seeds work similarly to nuts in that they provide beneficial fats, but also protein.
4. Coffee: As long as you stray away from all the sugar additives, coffee is actually good for your brain. Don’t over-do it, though—stick to 2-4 cups a day. Espresso beans as a snack are also delicious and healthy.
5. Tea: For the non-coffee lovers, tea is a rich provider of anti-oxidants.
6. Oatmeal: The perfect breakfast.
7. Beans: We all know these are good for your heart, but did you also know beans are good for you brain? Beans are packed with minerals, proteins, fiber, and vitamins. Plus you can get them as a quick side at the Mexican station in the Bison!
8.Olive Oil and Garlic: Hit up the pasta station for these two ingredients. Studies have found that olive oil is a healthy fat that aids in mental health, while garlic reduces bad cholesterol and strengthens your cardiovascular system.
9. Eggs: The perfect food for a trip to the caf. The protein and fat in eggs provides hours of energy for your brain.
10. Tomatoes: Throw these into your omelets! Tomatoes contain an anti-oxidant that is particularly good for your brain.
The most important thing to eat (okay, drink) during finals week is water! It keeps your body and brain hydrated. To treat yourself during finals, dig into some chocolate! Chocolate can help with brain activity, has the perfect amount of caffeine, and has anti-oxidants. For a fiber boost, have dark chocolate.
Remember to sleep! The most important thing before a test is a good night’s sleep. But, the most important thing to remember while doing your work or taking your test is to try your best, because that is all you can do.
