Brianna Fonseca
Crimson Chronicle Reporter
With midterms coming up, we all have to study whether we like it or not. Some students love reviewing notes and reading through textbooks like it’s a sport. Others would rather do anything like clean the house or scroll TikTok for hours than open a study guide. No matter where you fall though, one thing makes the whole process a little easier: snacks.
More specifically, study snacks. They are tiny bites of delight that keep you focused, energized and maybe even in a better mood.
So, if you need ideas for what to munch on while you’re cramming or simply trying to stay awake, here are some snacks that fuel your brain and taste great.
Oranges
A juicy, refreshing boost of vitamin C. Oranges contain antioxidants that help protect brain cells from stress. This couldn’t be more useful, especially when exams are frying your brain. Their natural sugars offer an energy boost without the crash you get from candy or soda. Studies also show vitamin C supports attention and quick thinking, making snacking on oranges great right before or during a study session.
Dark Chocolate
Craving a sweet treat during your study sesh? Dark chocolate is the perfect fix.
Not only does it taste amazing, but it also contains flavonoids, which increase blood flow to the brain and help improve memory, focus, and reaction time. Dark chocolate also boosts endorphins and serotonin, chemicals that help reduce stress and keep your mood steady while studying. Just a few small pieces can give your brain a huge cognitive boost and something sweet to satisfy that craving!
Avocados
Not sure if it’s a fruit or a vegetable? Either way, your brain will love avocados.
Avocados are full of healthy fats that support blood flow to the brain, which helps keep you focused and thinking clearly. They also contain potassium and folate, nutrients that support memory and nerve function. Not just that, they keep you full longer, so you’re not distracted by that nagging feeling of hunger in the middle of a study session. You can enjoy avocado sliced with a little salt, mashed into guacamole, or spread on toast for a quick, brain-boosting study snack.
Green tea & matcha
Do you love matcha or tea? Maybe you’ve wanted to try either or? Your next study session might be the perfect chance to do so. Matcha and green tea provide a calm type of caffeine thanks to L-theanine, an amino acid that improves focus and reduces stress. This means you stay alert without the jittery energy spike that coffee causes. Matcha also contains antioxidants that support long-term brain health and help with memory and concentration. This is perfect for late-night study sessions or an early morning exam.
Trail Mix
Need something crunchy to get you through a long study session? Trail mix is a simple, energy-packed choice. Nuts like almonds and walnuts provide healthy fats and protein that help keep your brain focused and fueled. They’re also rich in vitamin E, which supports memory and overall brain function. Seeds add antioxidants and magnesium, a mineral known for reducing stress and keeping you calm while you work. Dried fruit is sweet and delivers quick energy. It’s an easy snack that tastes great and keeps your hardworking mind sharp.
Berries
Berries are nature’s candy full of brain power. Blueberries, strawberries, and raspberries are full of antioxidants that protect our brain cells and improve memory. They’re not just called “brain berries” without a reason! Research shows berries may help with learning, concentration, and keeping your brain sharp over time. Plus, they taste amazing and don’t have absurd amounts of sugar.
. ݁₊ ⊹ . ݁ ⟡ ݁ . ⊹ ₊ ݁.
Studying may not be fun, but eating snacks definitely is. Choosing foods or snacks that boost memory, focus, and alertness can make long study sessions way easier and even a little more enjoyable! Whether you go for something sweet, refreshing, or filling, these snacks give both your brain and your mood a lift while you power through midterms.
