By Sarah Dallins,
Project Weight Loss staff writer
October 13, 2007There is a strong connection between the mental acuity and the food`s quality, especially during periods of stress and exams. A healthy diet and plenty of rest are the key factors that influence the energy levels necessary for the learning process.
People get more nervous when they sleep only three hours per night and foods high in sugar, salt, or fats are their main energy source. The body needs time to assimilate the nutrients and that is why a rich breakfast followed by healthy meals may sustain stress.
A peaceful sleep before an exam may be also influenced by the foods one consumes. For instance, foods that are harder to digest such as coffee, chips, chocolate, alcoholic beverages, or foods that contain excess amounts of salt or pepper should be avoided.
Nutritionists recommend rice, whole grains, sweet season fruits, pasta, or rice. These foods contain an aminoacid that synthesizes serotonin, are great sources of energy, and have a calming effect in the same time.
A diet based on rice is indicated because it is easy to digest and slowly gives energy. Plus, it offers the brain the necessary amount of glucose for its cognitive performance. A dinner with positive effects before an exam should include green boiled vegetables, chicken or turkey meat, white fish, and fresh cheese. Salads, red radishes, onion, or garlic also have calming effects.
Desserts and sweets should be replaced with a fresh fruit. During exams, males need almost 2,600 calories per day, while females need 2200 calories per day, according to specialists. A cup of tea or low-fat hot milk before nighttime may also reduce the stress and make the sleep deeper.
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