If you’ve been feeling inundated with tests, quizzes, papers, and projects lately, chances are that you are in what is known as “midterm season”. As we find ourselves in study rooms, library nooks, and our bedroom desks, many of us prioritize getting those crucial minutes of studying in over feeding ourselves properly. In fact, skipping meals are so commonplace during this time as we crunch to fit in all of our requirements into this short period of time. To combat stress during midterm season, here are 6 healthy snacks that will give you the energy that you need when junk food cravings hit.
1. Oatmeal
Whether you love it, or hate it, oatmeal is one of the most power-packed meals. Delivering crucial complex carbs, it takes our body much longer to break down the food, leaving you full for much longer. Sprinkle some honey, cinnamon, and fresh fruits to make your bowl of oatmeal look significantly more appealing.
2. Pistachios
Consuming pistachios has been linked to having heart health benefits and even helps lower blood pressure and heart rates. Even the process of de shelling pistachios has been linked to reducing stress, as you find yourself going through a rhythmic motion of cracking the shell open and eating the nut inside. More so, you actually end up eating less because it takes longer for you to reach the actual pistachio.
3. Herbal Teas
While it is not a snack per se, herbal teas have been found to be immensely helpful in combating stress. Chamomile tea is often touted as one that eases irritability and anxiety, while also helping the drinker fall asleep quicker.
4. Kale Chips
Kale chips are one of those wonderful snacks that don’t even have to be purchased at the store. All it takes to make these chips are fresh kale leaves, olive oil, and salt. Olive oil has been found to leave people feeling satisfied, especially through delivering a boost of serotonin. Similarly, consuming kale, which has high amounts of carotenoid, has led to people feeling significantly more optimistic.
5. Yogurt
Yogurt, especially Greek yogurt, is a terrific source of calcium and protein all wrapped up in a creamy goodness. Yogurt is full of probiotics that boost your immune system. Toss in some berries and chia seeds to make your yogurt even more flavorful and filling.
During this midterm season, please remember to take care of your body and consume regular meals. Your personal health and wellness is significantly more important than anything else. Far too often, we neglect to realize that. Make sure to snack in between meals and try all that you can to stop yourself from reaching for that crunchy bag of chips or those colorful boxes of candy. Instead, try to reach for healthier snacks that will leave you feeling significantly more full, help combat stress, and will give you the energy to keep studying for those pesky midterms. You’ve got this!