With Thanksgiving break over and finals just a week away, your body and mind have officially entered survival mode. Your instincts have sharpened as you try to find a table (or a plug) in the library – FIU’s version of The Hunger Games. And your brain is working in overdrive as you stay up late to squeeze textbooks of information into your brain. However, there will be times during the next two weeks that your body and mind might want to give up… AKA, the tragic stages of finals week. We’ve all read the articles and seen the GIFs that portray every stage of finals week perfectly, but now it’s time to tackle these stages using something we all love – food. Here are 6 foods that’ll help you get through every “stage” of the infamous finals week.
1. For when you are physically and mentally exhausted from studying the night before and need to wake up: Oatmeal
The carbs in oatmeal provide a boost of energy without the sugar crash and the high fibered oats keep you full for a long time. Enjoy some oatmeal for breakfast to get your body ready for an early morning exam.
2. For when you are having a mental break down: Green tea
Green tea contains tons of antioxidants that will help protect your body! However, it also has theanine, which is known for reducing stress and anxiety.
3. For when nothing is sticking in your mind: Dark chocolate
Dark chocolate, aside from being delicious, contains high amounts of cocoa. Cocoa contains caffeine and theobromine which help boost energy and focus.
4. For all-nighters: Citrus.
Full of Vitamin C, these fruits will keep you on your toes and alert. They are the perfect alternative to coffee!
5. For when you need help focusing: Peppermint
If you’re not in the mood to eat them, smelling peppermint is enough! It has been said that the smell of peppermint awakens the senses and mind.
6. For when you are feeling anxious before the exam: Berries
Berries like blueberries and raspberries have high concentrations of anthocyanin, an antioxidant that helps sharpen cognition. They are also rich in vitamin C which helps fend off stress.
Good luck with studying collegiates!