Nourish your body and mind

Show Cart
Your Cart is currently empty.

Product Search Advanced Search

No account yet? Register

Oh, finals week. For seven long days the student body sports matching dark under-eye circles, stained clothing and a generally grumpy mood.

Many aid their worries with delivery food: greasy indulgences and sugar-laden goods. The coffee kiosk is hopping as students attempt to temper stress and suppress tiredness and search for that boost of energy. But, if you want to keep your body going you need the right kind of food. Kelsey Needham, a professor of nutritional anthropology, said to stay away from constant snacking.

In order to avoid mindless eating, Needham stressed the importance of remaining hydrated. “Before I dig into a bag of Cheetos or popcorn because I think I’m hungry, I try to drink a glass of water first,” she said. “Usually that turns out to be just what I needed, and I’m not filling myself with fat and salt that will just make me feel sluggish later.” Needham said if your schedule hasn’t allowed time for healthy eating it’s a good idea to drink milk or vegetable/fruit juices. “Might as well give yourself some much needed nutrients along with your hydration,” Needham said. “This is also good to consider when you start to feel drowsy.”

According to Needham, the natural sugars in juice will give you an energy boost along with nutrients, something Red Bull and coffee won’t. In regards to “brain-food,” budining.com recommends getting sufficient amounts of iron, zinc, B vitamins and vitamins C and E. Vitamin B is found in accessible sources such as potatoes (not french fries), bananas, lentils and turkey. Vitamin C is found in a number of fruits, and Vitamin E is found in nuts and leafy green vegetables. Iron and zinc are found in meat, beans and whole grains and eggs. The Web site also stresses eating regular meals. Depriving the body of food for long periods of time will cause a lapse in energy and focus that will take away from dedicated study time.

For healthy snacking, grab the ever-popular piece of fruit, a whole grain peanut butter or turkey sandwich or a handful of nuts. If you have a lot of money left on your meal card, splurge on some high-priced snacks like whole-wheat crackers, Odwalla bars, hummus or sushi.

For a healthier caffeine rush aim for a cup of green tea. Don’t forget to try to get as much rest as possible and keep up on your fluids!

[ Back ]