Feed both mind and body during exams

Students appearing for a board exam are usually at very vulnerable stage in their lives. Adolescence can be a confusing time. With immense expectations hovering over their heads and the emotional paradox that is associated with hitting puberty, it is important that they get their daily requirement of nutrition. 

Dr Sudha Rathna Prabhu, paediatrician, says, “Students must remember that taking care of their health is as important to preparing for the exams -- for good health will ensure that students perform to their fullest.” 

While breakfast constitutes the most important meal of the day, students must refrain from eating a heavy meal. They should ideally look to filling three-fourths of their stomachs. This will ensure that they have enough reserve to tackle the exam. “There is no miracle diet for exams. Students must stick to following a healthy diet throughout the year. 

For breakfast, students must consume food that is rich in carbohydrates. Carbohydrates will provide instant energy that will carry them through the day. A south Indian breakfast is packed with the essential carbohydrates,” she adds. 

“It is probably best for students to stick to their routine diet. Drastic changes in anticipation of the examination might lead to indigestion.”  For lunch, students can consume proteins and fibre. Eat plenty of leafy vegetables. Eat vegetables that have high water content, such as spinach and carrot. “Since examinations are usually conducted during peak of summer, drink plenty of fluids. 

Dehydration will hamper your performance,” Dr Prabhu adds. Small, frequent meals are more beneficial for students. It will prevent overeating and acidity building up in the body. Instead of eating three solid meals a day, students can eat five meals of smaller proportions, that are equally spaced out. 

“In recent times, obesity is on the rise amongst students appearing for the board examinations due to lack of physical activity. This trend will follow them into their adulthood. Students must accept that examinations are one part of life; they must not neglect the other aspects of their lives,” she stresses. A well balanced diet and an active lifestyle  will ensure that students are well equipped to tackle the stress of exams.