English Breakfast

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So you’ve done your studying. Your reading. Your writing. Your study guide is perfect and you know your flashcards backwards and forwards. You had an early dinner, went to bed early and got your eight hours. You’ve now woken up feeling refreshed. Now what?

The Final Push

Chances are, your pre-exam meal has been neglected as you scurry about making sure everything is ready for the big day. Like carbo-loading before a race, your pre-exam nutrition is extremely important and can make or break your performance on the test. A long exam is like a mental marathon, endurance is critical. Don’t let all of your hard work go to waste simply because you’ve neglected one of the most seemingly trivial aspects of a successful day: diet. Eating properly the day of the test is a necessity, keep reading for some ideas on the best foods to ensure a great score on your exam.

Eat, Even If You Usually Don’t Eat

If you normally skip breakfast or resort to a light snack as you run out the door, do away with that on test day. Breakfast is EXTREMELY important, as your brain needs energy to work at optimal capacity. Make sure you have enough time to prepare a hearty meal that you enjoy. Now is not the time to try a new recipe or force down something you don’t like. If you are unable to do solid food in the morning, try a smoothie with brain-boosting fruits and natural sugars.

Time Your Meals Properly

If your test is in the morning, it is important to have your breakfast a few hours before to make sure you reap all the nutritional benefits. Moreover, a few hours between mealtime and test time means you have thoroughly digested the food, don’t walk into an exam 30 minutes after eating a giant breakfast; your body will be focused on digestion and you will feel tired and groggy. This goes for an afternoon exam as well, make sure your lunch is thorough but early enough to eliminate post-meal weariness.

Eat Brain-Powering Foods

Mental alertness is key during the exam. It would be a shame if you showed up to the test foggy or groggy due to poor nutrition. Protein-rich foods, such as nuts, eggs and yogurts are all good choices as they promote brain activity and alertness. Fruits and whole-grain cereals are excellent as well, as they have been shown to promote quick thinking. If it’s a post-lunch time exam, try and throw some vegetables in there as well, like carrots, broccoli and peppers.