During this time of online learning, students are expected to learn and retain the information they are given in order to do well in their classes. The way most students prepare for an upcoming test or quiz is by studying the material they are given. Studying can be done in many different ways, although some strategies may be more effective than others. But rather than looking at the different ways to study material, let’s look at another factor that research shows has a direct impact on how much information students retain while studying: the food they eat.
Students struggle to juggle school assignments, extracurricular activities and a social life. So, when it comes time to study, many students resort to unhealthy and highly processed foods to get them through their cramming sessions. This can lead to unhealthy habits and affect their wellbeing later in life. To avoid this, students should be mindful of what they consume and go for the healthier option. Healthier food options allow students to remember more information, so they can do better on their test or quiz.
“I feel as if healthy eating is important while studying because healthy foods will give you the right nutrients for your body to be able to work,” says Northwood senior Layla Ruppert.
There are plenty of healthy food options to pick from to help you get the most of a study session. Some foods include coffee, blueberries, turmeric, broccoli, pumpkin seeds, dark chocolate, nuts and oranges. All these foods have a high amount of antioxidants that protect the brain against damage from free radicals. Free radicals in the body occur when oxygen splits into single atoms and has an unpaired electron, and they damage cells, DNA and proteins.
Nuts are known to improve cognitive function. Additionally, when tested in clinical trials, nut consumption has been found to result in sharper memory. This is due to nuts’ high quantities of vitamin E, omega-3 fatty acids and omega-6 fatty acids. Blueberries, like nuts, also aid in lowering oxidative stress and inflammation that can damage the brain. This is due to blueberries’ high dose of anthocyanins. An antioxidant that contributes to the red, purple and blue color of plants. Healthy food options are often packed with antioxidants that help with inflammation, memory, and mood.
Ruppert likes having “ a bowl of oatmeal with some fruit, chia seeds, and almond butter while studying” as a snack, while Northwood senior Brooke Moran prefers apples and peanut butter.
Students should stay away from highly caffeinated and sugary drinks. Although energy drinks might keep you up, they offer little to no nutritional benefits and a lot of sugar and caffeine.
Although studying is often a stressful time for most students, choosing the right foods will allow the student to perform better in class. Healthy foods are packed with antioxidants and energy, so don’t be afraid to try new healthy options and try to shy away from overly processed snacks!
-Loren King
