This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at U Toronto chapter.

Final season just began, which means lots of studying, not much sleep, and probably lots of unhealthy eating choices. It can be hard to resist the temptation and convenience of pizza and fast food, but with a little willpower and some meal ideas, you’ll be ready to take on those exams and start the summer off to a healthy start!

An easy way to eat a little bit healthier is to try and incorporate the foods that will give you the most nutritional bang for your buck. I’m talking about superfoods! According to Livescience, superfoods are “nutritionally dense and good for [your] health.” Here are some of the possible superfoods to incorporate into your week, with the nutritional benefits they’ll give you. Use these possible meal and snack ideas to keep you feeling healthy and energized during this exam season.

Breakfast:

Chia seeds: calcium, antioxidants, and omega-3s

Chia Seed Pudding: It may sound a bit suspicious, but it actually tastes really good! The chia seeds expand and form a gel, which gives it that pudding consistency. You can combine chia seeds with bananas and coconut milk, and let it sit over night, and it is ready to eat the next morning for a quick breakfast!

Recipe: https://wellnessmama.com/59344/chia-seed-pudding-recipe/

Eggs: Protein and vitamin D

Omelets:

I made an omelet the other day in 5 minutes, and was shocked at how fast it was done! Eggs don’t have to take much time, just as long as you are prepped with the right ingredients. Throw in some of your favorite veggies, like mushrooms, peppers, tomatoes, and some cheese!

Snacks:

Greek yogurt: Protein and probiotics

This is a super easy snack to have throughout the day. You can add honey or fruit to add a little bit of sweetness.

Almonds: Fiber, potassium, calcium, vitamin E, magnesium

Try snacking on almonds if you start getting cravings for your favorite junk food during exam stress. They are one of the healthier nuts, offering the most nutrients per calorie.

Avocados: Vitamins: K, B, C, E, Potassium

Oh, how I love avocados! It can sometimes be hard to find a perfect, ripe avocado, but when you do, it is well worth it!

Guacamole: Mash up avocados, add some lime juice, salt and pepper, some garlic, and some tomatoes for a delicious snack! Try eating it with carrot sticks, so you don’t oversnack on the toritilla chips (those things are addictive!)

Dinner:

Broccoli: Vitamin C, fiber, potassium

Add some broccoli to your dinner for a healthier side. Try steaming broccoli, to help retain more of these nutrients, or saute it with your other favorite vegetables in a stirfry!

Brussel Sprouts: Vitamins C, K, folate, and potassium

I know, the last thing you want to eat after a long day of studying or finishing an exam is a Brussel sprout. But trust me, when they’re done right, they taste amazing!

Recipe: Roasted Brussel Sprouts

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/roasted-brussels-sprouts-recipe2

Salmon: Protein, omega 3 fatty acids

Salmon is such a healthy option for dinner, and can be made pretty quickly too! Marinate it in and make it in the oven, or cook it on the stove top for a healthy dinner idea.

Recipe: http://allrecipes.com/recipe/82817/balsamic-glazed-salmon-fillets/

References:

http://greatist.com/health/25-greatist-superfoods-and-why-theyre-super

http://www.womansday.com/food-recipes/food-drinks/tips/g2211/best-superfoods/?slide=12

http://www.eggnutritioncenter.org/topics/nutrients-in-eggs/

http://greatist.com/health/superfood-greek-yogurt

https://authoritynutrition.com/12-proven-benefits-of-avocado/

http://www.livescience.com/45408-broccoli-nutrition.html

https://draxe.com/brussels-sprouts-nutrition/

http://allrecipes.com/recipe/82817/balsamic-glazed-salmon-fillets/

http://www.foodnetwork.com/recipes/ina-garten/roasted-brussels-sprouts-recipe2

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