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Some students feel like they have to pull off some kind of culinary alchemy on a shoestring budget. Others tend to come up with a boatload of excuses, including lack of time. Well, you should know that eating habits have a great impact on your academic performance. They can make your systems run like clockwork and keep your mood soaring high. The key to harnessing the power of a wholesome diet is to know its staples; its main building blocks. With that in mind, you can go ahead prepare meals that are mouthwatering and healthy at the same time.
Time to step up
Like it or not, food has a major role to play in your student life. It affects everything from mood and confidence to cognitive abilities and overall health, supplying your body with fuel and energy. Studies show that students who eat healthily are less likely to fail literacy and other tests. They can avoid running out of steam as well as the peaks and valleys of energy throughout the day. So, there are no excuses!
There are numerous money- and time-saving tips to check out, but the real problem is often that students’ cooking environments are uninspiring, to say the least. It pays off to invest in your kitchen, as cooking can become a thrilling adventure instead of a chore. To boost the functionality, comfort, and visual appeal of the area, consider appliances such as a quality Bosch microwave and high-grade cookware.
In nutritious balance
You have probably heard about the importance of balanced meals, but what does that really mean? Well, first off, fruits and vegetables are the mainstay of healthy nutrition; the go-to sources of vitamins, fiber, minerals, and carbohydrates. Hence, they should compose at least half of your daily menu. A rainbow-colored food palette does the trick. Think in terms of apples, lettuce, carrots, broccoli, lentils, etc.
Let us start gathering nutrient pieces with a protein, the cornerstone of a healthy diet. To get ample lean protein, introduce something like chicken or turkey. Red meat with fat trimmed off is particularly good, so have an occasional pork chop or beef cut. In case you are a vegetarian or simply prefer not to consume meat, opt for non-animal sources such as quinoa, meat seeds, tofu, and beans.
Furthermore, include dairy products to get your share of lactose, lean protein, calcium, and other vital nutrients. A cup of low-fat milk or yogurt is thus an excellent addition to your breakfast. Strive to consume whole grains that are a natural source of fiber, magnesium, copper, selenium, protein, vitamin B, zinc, iron, etc. You will not only get necessary nutrients, but also keep your blood sugar in check.
Last but not least, fat, despite its reputation, is not to be overlooked either. In fact, healthy fats are critical to the normal functioning of the body. Some of the best foods in this regard are dark chocolate, nuts, avocados, coconut oil, and chia seed. On the other hand, steer away from the saturated and trans fats one typically finds in junk and processed food.
Avoid the sugary grave
Students, like all mortals, need to include various liquids in their diets. Coffee is seen as a natural ally, but going overboard is not advisable, especially when it comes to sugars and creamers. Also, beware of sugary snacks and drinks. Commercial juices and sodas are loaded with sugar and offer zero nutrients. Stick to organic and sugar-free alternatives. Likewise, healthy snacks in the league of fruits and nuts must be prioritized over their sugar-laden counterparts.
An initial sugar high is simply not worth it as the effects quickly wear off and leave you feeling tired and craving more. Besides, the long-term consequences are dire for your body. Remember that the best diets are nutrient-packed, varied, and also flavorsome. So, do not shy away from culinary experiments. Throw some herbs, exotic delicacies, and spices into the mix. Implement new dishes and meals to prevent appetite loss and tackle academic challenges with flying colors.
The best of both worlds
Scientists have identified a strong link between nutrition and academic performance. In light of the mounting evidence, it is of the utmost importance to strike a fine dietary balance to maximize health gains. Get into the art of planning and figure out meals that are both wholesome and cater to your inner hedonist. Ensure the proper functioning of your body and brain, feel motivated, and keep those engines roaring towards success.
This article was contributed by guest author Lana Hawkins.