Best snacks to enjoy when studying

Studying requires a great deal of concentration and focus to get effective results. It also requires energy. One way that students procure energy is by fulfilling their cravings. A lot of Bellevue students love to have a small snack by their side to munch on while they go through their piles of homework and essays. For some reason, that small snack makes the process a lot more appealing.

“I like to munch on chewy or hard snacks that take time to eat, maybe hard candy to stay focused,” sophomore Sophia Qu said. 

Although the snacks picked up by most students usually contain an energy drink such as Celsius and perhaps some Nerd gummy clusters, there are also plenty of delicious and comparatively healthy snacks to opt for instead. It is completely normal for cravings to rise while studying, which is why going for high-protein and nutrient-dense snacks are recommended over the occasional candies and crisps to power the brain.

Since getting hungry amid working on an essay is sometimes inevitable, it is better to eat healthier options as unhealthy foods will only provide temporary energy.

“Every once in a while, I like to grab a few frozen chocolate-covered strawberries which are always nice,” junior Isabel Conejo said.

Here are some recommendations for healthier snack alternatives that are also yummy:

Avocado Toast: Topped with olive oil, lemon juice, eggs and butter. This snack is packed with omega-3 fatty acids that help support brain functions, the bread produces fibers and carbs associated with long lasting energy.

Crackers and Cheese: Whole grain crackers and cheese keep energy stable and supplies the brain with proteins and carbs while also serving as a delicious alternative to chips.

Dried fruits and nuts covered in dark chocolate: This snack is packed with natural sugar that powers the brain with energy while quality dark chocolate can improve blood flow and lower blood pressure.  

Berries with yogurt and granola: Different variations of berries such as strawberries, blueberries, raspberries etc., provide nutrients and improve mental performance.  Greek yogurt and granola are key sources of protein and probiotics that support bone health and digestive function.

Vegetables and Hummus: Although this may seem very boring and bland, crunchy vegetables such as carrots, cucumbers and bell peppers pair very well with a side of hummus. Hummus is great source of protein and vegetables boost energy and mental performance. It is a great choice for people with a savory pallet.

Overall, smart snacking can effectively provide brain power, nutrients to boost mental performance and energy to effectively retain information.