Final exams are looming for ISU students, and time is running short. Studying seems to be scribbled in all the time slots on everyone’s calendars. Thoughts of skipping meals and pulling all-night study sessions may be swimming through the flooded minds of some students. Other students may be considering surviving on fast-food meals such as pizza, burgers and fries and donuts for breakfast topped with a large cup of anything dripping with caffeine.

Bags of chips, vending machine snacks and energy drinks are a typical part of a life for most college students. However, Judy Trumpy, registered dietitian at the Thielen Student Health Center, said these types of foods “may keep you stimulated while you are eating it, but avoid buying them to have around.”

Trumpy recommends students eat at the Memorial Union or other student cafeterias, as they provide an array of healthy choices.

Sarah Kerkman, junior in advertising, said she eats at either the Memorial Union or Clydes at the UDCC.

“I would say I do eat healthy most of the time, until it gets hectic,” Kerkman said.

Trumpy suggested maintaining a balanced diet and also said that students should not try dieting at times such as final exams.

Quick protein foods

• Nuts
• Eggs
• Cheese
• Yogurt
• Dried Fruit
• Granola Bars with 5 to 7 grams of protein

Other healthy snacks

• Raw vegetables
• Apples
• Bananas
• Cereal with or without milk
• Cottage cheese
• Tuna

Don’t.

• Drink your meal – Stay away from energy drinks.
• Stay up all night to study – Sleep is important.
• Eat where you study – Take a break from studying to eat meals.
• Increase sugar intake – Skip the vending machine snacks.
• Drink caffeine – Stick with decaffeinated drinks.

Do.

• Eat protein – Meat and dairy foods are the best.
• Exercise – Take a break and go for a brisk walk.
• Eat in a social setting – Not in front of the TV.
• Stay hydrated – Drink water.