It’s that time of year again! The spring semester is drawing to an end and you can almost taste summer break …it’s that close! What’s stopping you? Of course, your much-dreaded final exams that are lined up back-to-back, which are driving you absolutely stir-crazy. You are so stressed that you have officially declared residence at one of the libraries on campus, eating all three meals straight from the vending machine, motivated to get good marks this semester.
Have you ever stopped to think that this is not a sustainable way to live? You might be thinking to yourself that you are maximizing your time and increasing your efficiency, but in reality, you’re not! After all, food is nutrition for the body and mind, and eating healthy may stimulate your brain and actually help you during your study sessions!
Here are few quick and healthy snacks that you can sneak into the library that will fuel your brain and keep your stomach full:
Quick fixes that are perfect on the go (throw them in a container or Zip-loc so they’re instantly portable!):
· Trail mix – In addition, add some dried fruits and nuts to spice things up.
· Yogurt parfait – Some plain yogurt packed with your favorite berries and some granola is a mouthwatering combination. Pick Greek yogurt if you’re in need of protein.
· Cheese and crackers – Have high-fibre crackers, such as Triscuits, with mozzarella, cheddar, or even blue cheese.
· Popcorn – Try picking a light version, or the non-buttered variety, these are light in calories and of course, easy on the back as they are super light to carry.
· Fruit – Bananas, apples, pears, oranges,… you name it! Cut the fruit up and store it in the fridge, so it’s ready any time!
· String cheese – High in protein, these things will keep your mind going while also providing you with some entertainment as well (remember that elemntary school fun?)
While at home, treat yourself! But try to keep the portion sizes small to remain on the healthy side, while not leaving you with a food coma that will knock you out when you need to concentrate.
· Hummus with carrots – You can pretty much dip any vegetable in hummus and it will taste amazing! Try cucumber, celery, or red pepper.
· Frozen chocolate-peanut butter covered bananas – Yum! Cut up a ripe banana and dip it in a mixture of melted chocolate chips with peanut butter; refrigerate overnight and the next day you will have created the ultimate treat for yourself, no Haagen Dazs required!
· For those working solo for the week, check out this site for amazing delicious snacks in a mug that serve 1 (and sometimes 2): http://www.buzzfeed.com/arielknutson/delicious-snacks-in-a-mug
Cheers and good luck with your finals!