Meal Planning To Keep The Stress Out Of The Test…

Tips to understand what are the right foods and meals for kids to consume during the stress of the exam season.

The word “exams” seldom summons pleasant thoughts. For kids, it means a pause in playtime, with the burden of academics weighing them down (sometimes, quite literally!); for parents, it’s time to ensure their kids follow a disciplined routine and a nutritious diet, and stay healthy at a time when they may be anxious and nervous.

Exam time can disrupt your kids’ regular schedule— some kids may prefer to study late into the night, some may need to wake up much earlier than usual, while others may not be able to let go of their books even during mealtimes! Besides, there is no running away from exam stress. Some kids may feel it less than others, but the fact that there may be some changes in their emotional state must be acknowledged and accepted.

A holistic nutrition plan can go a long way in helping your child navigate exam season with more comfort and ease.

1. Wholesome wholefoods

Pick a balanced diet, rich in nutrients that help your child deal with stress, improve their performance,. Research suggests that omega-3 fats are essential for healthy functioning of the nervous system, and can help to boost students’ memory and concentration. You can explore common ingredients in your kitchen that could be loaded with nutrients beneficial for your kids Offer a rainbow platter to the kids, your child should have a colorful plate offering all 5 groups of foods daily which is cereals, protein, milk-dairy, fruits, and vegetables. This will meet their nutritional need as well as the colorful plate which looks visually appealing encourages kids to indulge and show less resistance to a healthy diet.

2. Safe snacking

Stress depletes oxygen, energy, and nutrient reserves faster than usual. In response, the body tends to crave food that is high in fat and calories but may be low in nutritional value. And so, your kids may end up ‘stress-eating’ processed food like fried snacks or sweets— not the kind of food you’d like them to binge on.

Keep healthy alternatives handy for the kids to munch on when they feel peckish. For example, nuts and fruits can serve as a nutritious mid-meal treat.

3. Mind on the meal

Introduce your child to the practice of mindful eating. When we are stressed, we eat quickly without noticing what or how much we’re eating. Mindful eating promotes thoughtful food choices— encouraging your child to steady their breath, focus on their meal, and chew food slowly and thoroughly, can help them find joy in eating and also improve their digestion.

4. Support from supplements

You can also complement your child’s diet with nutritional supplements. These are especially useful for people who may fall sick often or have recurrent infections. Scientifically designed nutritional products ensure that your kids are at their healthiest and in a position to give their exams their best shot!

Good nutrition is a stepping-stone to a healthy life. A balanced diet is key in empowering the body to deal with stressful events and achieve its true potential. Through conscious food choices and mindful eating practices, you can make sure that your kids are in their best health, even through ‘testing’ times. 

Disclaimer: The information mentioned in this document is only suggestive /for patient education and shall not be considered as a substitute for doctor’s advice or recommendations from Abbott. Please consult your doctor for more information.

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