Five Tips for Healthy Studying During Finals Week

We are approaching the end of the school year! Many of you have are juggling school, work, and a social life. It can become overwhelming when you have a lot to do, but not a lot of time to do it. Keep in mind that during this time it is even more important than usual to get enough sleep, stay physically active, and make healthy food choices.

Many people find that when they are stressed they eat more than planned. In 2010, a study from the University of Michigan found that when levels of cortisol (the stress hormone) increased - even in healthy, non-stressed adults - they tended to eat more snack foods. Something to consider: A healthy lifestyle can improve your focus and concentration, which can help you to be more efficient and can actually result in you completing your work in less time. Here are five tips to keep you healthy as you head into summer break!

Take breaks when you think you need them

Too much stress can disrupt your efforts of being organized. Take a break when you think you need one! Even if it is taking a 10-minute walk or making a quick phone call to a friend.

Avoid too much caffeine

Caffeine may give you a quick boost but don’t overdo it! If you drink too many caffeinated beverages it may increase dehydration as these beverages may end up taking the place of water or other hydrating beverages. Avoid caffeinated beverages in the late afternoon as this could disrupt your sleep at night.

Eat small frequent meals throughout the day

Avoid long stretches between meals and snacks. If you go longer than 4 hours without eating you will begin to feel fatigued, which may result in decreased concentration.

Pre-plan meals and snacks

When you plan ahead it can help you cut down on making impulsive less healthy choices.

Limit consumption of high-fat and high sugar snacks

These foods can zap your energy level. It is important to keep your energy level up by choosing healthy snacks as often as possible.

High-energy snack options

• Peanut butter and jelly sandwich
• Apple with peanut butter
• Low-fat yogurt with fruit or whole grain crackers
• Carrots and hummus
• Low-fat pudding
• Vegetable soup
• A handful of trail mix
• A handful of almonds
• A bowl of cereal
• Oatmeal made with milk
• A piece of fruit

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Nutritionist Christine Clark works with Dining Services to provide you with tips and techniques to stay healthy during your time at Northeastern. If you have any further questions about this topic or are looking for more information about any other nutrition or diet topic, such as food allergies or sports nutrition, please contact her at christine.clark2@compass-usa.com.

Resources:

1. Time Management: Tips to reduce stress and improve productivity. Accessed December 4, 2011. http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/time-management/wl00048
2. Stress Management. Accessed December 3, 2011. http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/001942.htm
3. Nutrition: Healthy Eating When Busy or Stressed. Accessed December 4, 2011. http://www.uhs.uga.edu/stress/strategies.html