Fueling for Finals: 5 Healthy Snack Ideas

By Rachel Reynolds, MS, RD, LDN

It is all too easy to forget about nourishing your body during final exams when it feels like there just aren’t enough hours in the day to get everything done. Eating well during final exams can give you an extra edge. Incorporating balanced snacks throughout the day can help fuel your brain to concentrate while studying, maintain energy levels while working throughout the day (and sometimes night!) on papers or projects, and focus during exams. Give your brain a boost by incorporating healthy snacks that include these three key ingredients:

1. whole grains to provide immediate energy to your brain
2. fruits and vegetables to fill you up
3. protein to help you sustain energy levels and fullness as you work

Here are 5 simple snack ideas to help you power through the week:

• Whole grain grain crackers (like Triscuits or Wheat Thins) + a handful of grapes + reduced fat string cheese
• DIY Trail Mix: combine popcorn + dried fruit + nuts for the perfect mix of sweet and salty. This snack is versatile, portable, and packed with energy!
• Try whole grain pita chips + baby carrots + hummus. Make your own snack pack in a plastic container for an on-the-go library snack.
• Sandwich together whole grain bread + banana + peanut butter for a balanced snack or mini-meal. Feeling adventurous or have a few extra minutes on your hands? Try grilling this in a fry pan just like you would a grilled cheese.
• Make your own yogurt parfait: top your favorite yogurt with whole grain cereal + berries

Happy studying (and snacking)!