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Importance of Diet in Relation to Academic and Test-Taking Performance

It has been known in the general public that diet plays a role in physical and mental well-being. As such, it naturally follows that students could make extra progress in their quest for academic excellence through adopting better dietary habits. Of course, hard work and dedication is needed and completing the work on time along with proper study habits is what matters most…but, a healthy and well-balanced works wonders in helping students perform better academically.

Carbohydrates:

These macronutrients function as brain food. The glucose in carbohydrates fuels the body and the brain. Its hard to think clearly without adequate carbohydrates in the diet. Whole bran cereal, fruits, beans, vegetables, and brown rice are all excellent sources of carbohydrates and should be consumed in moderation throughout the day to keep the brain and body fueled and ready for prime performance. Not all carbohydrates are created equal, however so avoid sugary carbohydrate sources such as soft drinks, ice cream, and candy.

Proteins:

Protein is necessary for the body to repair itself and should be consumed in moderate quantity during the day, especially at night. A body deficient in protein will not repair itself properly, and begin to lose muscle mass. A lack of muscle mass will certainly make it difficult to carry around those school books or to participate in extra curricular sports!

Fats:

Fats are necessary for proper hormonal development, brain function, and various other bodily functions. Because fats are calorically dense and digest slowly, its best to consume them in a small quantity at night, along with protein. This way this body has a slow-digesting source of calories to sustain itself while you are in a fasted state during sleep.

Bon Apetit!