5 Brain-Boosting Foods to Ace Your Exams

The human brain is a marvel in itself. Weighing about 3 pounds, the human brain contains around one hundred billion neurons. It allows one to plan, memorize, visualize, multitask, dream, play sports, sing, and do much more. However, without a healthy diet, several problems can crop up that can hinder one from functioning at an optimal level. There is no doubt that our diet plays an important role in maintaining our physical and mental health. Maintaining a healthy diet is especially important for students and adolescents since they are in a developmental stage.

All over the world, students undertake important tests that can either make or break their overall academic performance. For example, school students in Victoria, Australia undertake a crucial test known as the Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program (SEAL-P) that leads to the identification and selection of extraordinary students. Similarly, in Western Australia, the Gifted and Talented Exams (GATE) are conducted. Getting good scores on such academic tests is the primary target of every student. That is why it becomes your responsibility as a parent, to give nutritious foods to your children that boost their memory and cognitive abilities.

5 Brain-Boosting Foods to Ace Your Exams

It is crucial to eat certain brain foods before an important exam. So without further ado, let us move on to the 5 brain-boosting foods that can help you to excel in your exams.

1. Plenty of Protein

Protein is necessary for sustaining energy levels. Furthermore, foods that are packed with protein are known to reduce anxiety. Foods that are high in protein can be beneficial for an upcoming exam. Foods like eggs, lean meats, and low-fat milk are all enriched with protein.

2. Whole Grains

Whole grains like steel-cut oatmeal, quinoa and porridge are great ideas for the morning meal before an exam. Opt for whole-grain bread instead of going for the regular white bread.

3. Fruits & Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are rich in antioxidants. Berries, prunes, apples, and pecans are particularly high in antioxidants. Moreover, they contain fiber and important vitamins and minerals. Berries contain a compound known as anthocyanin that is known to boost mental performance.

4. Craving Something Sweet?

If your child has a sweet tooth, you could give him a chocolate chip granola bar, a fruit smoothie, blueberry yogurt, or green tea with honey. These foods are delicious as well as healthy. Eating something sweet can also calm your child’s nerves before an exam.

5. Don’t Forget to Hydrate

Don’t forget to give your child a water bottle to bring along to the test centre. Have your child drink at least a glass of water in the morning as hydration is essential for the brain to focus and function optimally.

Foods to Avoid

While there are foods that should be consumed before an exam, there are also certain foods that must be avoided at all costs. Try to avoid giving your child coffee, sugar-laden snacks, and fried foods. While these foods cause a spike in energy initially, they can also lead to a crash in energy during the exam. Additionally, the consumption of any new foods must be avoided as it may upset the digestive system.

Final Thoughts

Besides guidance and parental support, providing your child with healthy foods should also be your priority. A rich, balanced, and healthy diet is a must to help your child outperform in competitive exams like the Select Entry Accelerated Learning Program. Hence, when it comes to these crucial exams, follow the adage that says, "A healthy body leads to a healthy mind."