Susan Weiner, R.D., M.S., C.D.E., C.D.N.
Want
to improve your grades this term? Maintaining good study habits
throughout the semester, eating well, exercising and sleeping
are key to achieving a great GPA. In many cases, the final exam
counts for over half a course grade. Finals week is pressure packed
and will test the limits of your ability to remain focused under
pressure. Staying healthy at the end of the semester depends on
your nutrition, sleep and exercise habits.
Here are a few tips to staying healthy and focused during finals:
Don’t Skip Meals
Make sure you eat a nutritious breakfast, lunch and dinner. Include
two healthy snacks each day. If you don’t have time to go
to the dining hall in the morning, keep some natural peanut butter
and apples in your room for a quick and easy breakfast. Enjoy
a Greek yogurt with sliced almonds or walnuts as an afternoon
snack or try bag of unsalted nuts and some fresh fruit. Keep whole
grain granola bars on hand for non-perishable, portable snack
that you can munch on during a study break.
Drink More Water and Less Coffee
Yes, I know that coffee seems to be a “must” during
final exam week. It’s fine to have a cup in the morning,
but drinking water will keep you well hydrated and is an important
part of your overall healthy eating plan. If you want a hot beverage,
try some caffeine free herbal tea or green tea. Too much caffeine
may prevent you from getting the precious sleep that you desperately
require. Sleep will help you can concentrate on exam day.
Avoid Overeating To Combat Fatigue
We often confuse being tired with being hungry. If you eat regularly
throughout the day (meals and snacks), you will be less likely
to overeat during the late night hours when studying. Overeating
can actually make you even more tired. Eat when you’re hungry,
drink water when you are thirsty and sleep when you’re tired.
Snack On Fruits And Vegetables
If you feel as if you need to snack while you’re studying,
have a supply of fresh fruits and veggies available for munching.
Keep some salsa, hummus or yogurt around for dipping. Try to avoid
keeping large bags of chips or endless supplies of junk food in
your room. That way you will avoid suffering from a stomach ache
during final exams.
Try to Avoid Stressful People
Most college students are stressed out during exam week. However
if you know that certain people cause you even more stress, try
to stay away. Consider cutting back on your social media connections
to reduce distractions until finals are over.
Keep Moving
Take a walk (or an early morning run, or exercise break) to help
maintain your energy level. You’ll feel great and your body
will thank you!
Final exam week is tough. In order to keep focused, follow the
tips above and maintain a positive outlook. If you don’t
eat well, you will be hungry, less able to concentrate and even
more irritable. Please share your thoughts. What do you do to
stay focused during final exams?
Good Luck!
Susan Weiner, R.D., M.S., C.D.E., C.D.N.
Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator
www.susanweinernutrition.com
http://www.susanweinernutrition.com/nutrition-blog/
http://twitter.com/susangweiner
http://www.linkedin.com/in/susanweinernutrition
http://www.facebook.com/SusanWeinerNutrition
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