Exams are the bane of every student’s life. Juggling revision and study with eating, sleeping and even the occasional break tests even the most dedicated of learners. So here’s the essential guide to surviving exam season with 7 tips for staying healthy.
- Drink plenty of water – stay hydrated throughout the day (and night) by drinking plenty of water. A glass of water will kick-start your brain in the morning and wash away any tiredness, both physical and mental. You need to keep taking fluids on board so your energy levels stay high.
- Get a caffeine kick – don’t go overboard on energy drinks that are high in caffeine but instead try herbal or green tea. They are packed with antioxidants and nutrients that are a natural aid to staying alert. Energy drinks, coffee and ordinary tea might give you a stimulating mental boost but drinking too many will actually slow you down while also increasing your anxiety and stress levels.
- Fill up on fruit – choose fruits that are high in fibre and filled with natural sugar. Bananas are a great example because they will give you a slow release of energy over a few hours. If you’re nowhere near a shop, stock up on packets of dried fruits such as apricots and raisins – they are an ideal snack and will stave off those hunger pangs as you slave over the textbooks in the library.
- Eat at least one proper meal every day – fast food is convenient but rarely satisfying. So take the time to make a decent meal from scratch and make sure you include those dark leafy green vegetables that are essential sources of protein, iron, fibre and calcium. Eating them can improve brain health and function.
- Go for the grain – whole grains are another great way to get a slow energy release over a few hours. Barley, whole wheat and rice are all great sources, along with pulses and beans.
- Increase your omega 3 intake – for brain health, you can’t beat oily fish such as salmon, herring and mackerel. Pumpkin, walnut, sunflower and flax seeds are another marvellous source of these essential fatty acids, too.
- Don’t miss out on sleep – it’s tempting to burn the midnight oil, especially as exam dates approach. But a good night’s sleep will do more for your exam performance than staying hunched over your notes until your eyelids are drooping. Go to bed early and make sure you don’t have any distractions in the bedroom so switch off the telly and the iPod. Six hours’ solid sleep will pay off in the long run.
Comments are closed.