Getting through the school day with classes, extracurriculars and work tasks to accomplish can be difficult on the best of days. Many college students struggle to focus and aren’t always prepared for tests and quizzes that could drastically affect their grades. Here are a few great snacks to boost focus and make the long day a little bit easier.
1- Dark chocolate
Everyone has those cravings for something sweet that immediately brings chocolate to the mind. Dark chocolate and other cocoa products actually benefit the body by containing flavonoids. Studies have suggested that flavonoids greatly help the mind’s processes and ability to focus while boosting memory and mental fatigue. If there’s only a little time available between classes, a few bites of dark chocolate might make all the difference before that important exam.
2- Almonds
Many nuts provide healthy fats and protein that can provide the necessary energy to get through the day. Consumed in moderate quantities, almonds can provide a healthy, salty snack that energizes the body and mind and keeps it focused on the tasks ahead.
3- Berries
Many berries contain flavonoids that help blood flow to the brain and promote better memory function. Berries are a tasty treat that can be added to salads and smoothies or just eaten alone to create a quick and easy snack, perfect when finishing up an essay due in an hour.
4- Citrus Fruit
Similar to dark chocolate, citrus fruits often contain flavonoids that are essential to brain performance. By drinking a cup of orange juice in the morning or indulging in a sweet and bitter grapefruit in the afternoon, the brain can enjoy the benefits of foods naturally made to help it flourish and develop. Just be careful not to add too much sugar to the daily diet and focus on foods and drinks that minimize sugary additives and flavorings.
5- Popcorn
This tasty snack doesn’t just have to be eaten in the movie theater while watching the new big blockbuster. Popcorn is a great source of fiber and a delicious, salty snack that can fill up the stomach quickly and hold off hunger rumbles until it’s time for a bigger meal. Popcorn is great for the digestive tract for those who get upset stomachs when they’re nervous and can be added to pretzels, chips, candies and more to create a flavorful snack design.
6- Fish
Adding some fish to the day is a great way to get some Omega-3s into the body. With a moderate amount every day, fish can help with memory and overall brain function, which is essential in remembering facts and statistics for that presentation. Mixed in with a salad or sandwich can cut the fishy taste if it’s not a favorite while still giving benefits.
7- Eggs
Eggs are hit-or-miss for some, but it’s impossible to deny their many health benefits for the body. Eggs are rich in vitamin B12 and selenium, which is directly linked to the functions of the brain. Selenium assists overall memory and cognition and can help to make that math test or history essay that much easier. Just be careful not to eat too many or open up a hard-boiled egg in class unless you want everyone to complain about the smell.
