Eating to Reduce Test Anxiety

Test anxiety can disturb your system in a big way, from insomnia to gastrointestinal issues like nausea and diarrhea. If you suffer from severe nervousness before an important exam, you might need to make a few changes in your eating habits. These changes won't eliminate test anxiety, but will lessen the digestive symptoms and provide vitamins to help your body cope with stress.

Avoid excess caffeine. That extra cup of coffee or energy drink may help you study for longer periods of time, but it can wreak havoc on your digestive tract. Use caffeinated drinks sparingly, if at all, during the weeks before your exam.

Drink alcohol in moderation. Wine, beer, and other alcoholic drinks may take the edge off your anxiety for a while, but the next day you will have trouble concentrating and remembering. Try not to drink too much in the weeks before the exam, and never drink alcohol the night before your test date.

Eat light, high-protein meals. Simple meals that are easily digested and pack a lot of healthy nutrients are the best way to power up for the exam. Try toast with a thin layer of peanut butter and a glass of skim milk for breakfast, fruit and tuna for lunch, and lean chicken breast with salad for dinner. Eat simply and healthfully to boost your mental stamina.

Avoid high-fat, high-sodium foods. Greasy high-sodium foods will weigh you down both mentally and physically, and lead to "brain fog" that will interfere with test performance. If you can't get enough fatty foods, save your craving for after the exam.

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