Food Supplements for Exam Periods

When we have barely had time to take in the end of the holidays, we suddenly find ourselves in the middle of exam season. The difficult part now is switching the brain from celebration mode to responsibilities. It is a time when a lot is at stake. A competitive exam or exams are the moment to concentrate and dedicate yourself body and soul to studying. In this post, we talk about the best vitamins for concentrating while studying.

Help your body during exam season

The tools you have to come out of this situation successfully are many, including rest, exercise, a suitable diet and, of course, listening to your body's signals. If you feel tired, it is because it needs more 'fuel' or rest. Or a little of everything.

• A balanced diet: every nutrient has a key and necessary role in the body, which is why it is so important to eat a bit of everything and in moderation. Have five meals a day and remember that an overly full stomach will not help you keep your brain awake.
• Stay well hydrated: drink at least two litres of water a day and do not wait until you are thirsty; your physical and mental performance will thank you.
• If you can,organise yourself to do a little sport. It will improve your concentration and memory, and you will sleep better by reducing stress when you release endorphins.
• Sleep is essential for your brain to work at full capacity. And if you need to have a nap, do it. A 20-minute 'power nap' may be just what you need to perform well in front of your books.
• We must not forget to add breaks of ten minutes or a little more (maximum 20 minutes), as this will prevent exhaustion and keep us alert.

But even if we make plan after plan, as the date approaches, it seems our memory starts to fail, we cannot concentrate and we need extra help, especially during the last days of study, because we feel mentally exhausted. To counteract this mental exhaustion and tiredness, we need to nourish and feed our brain cells. We know that the main fuel for our brain is vitamins for concentrating while studying; with them we will stay more awake and rested, keeping the mental exhaustion of studying at bay.

Vitamins for concentrating while studying: the importance of the B-vitamin complex and vitamin C

The brain uses B vitamins in most of its functions, including the most important ones: B6, B9 or folic acid, and B12. B vitamins protect the brain's neurons and improve red blood cell production.

• Vitamin C provides energy and is an antioxidant that helps protect the brain from free radicals.
• Omega 3 and 6. Our brain needs essential fatty acids for proper functioning. As they are not synthesised in the body, they must be obtained through the diet.
• Magnesium: magnesium acts as a neurotransmitter, facilitating neuronal connections or synapses, and is closely related to people's mental balance.
• Ginkgo biloba. Ginkgo biloba improves concentration and memory by specifically improving blood circulation.
• Phosphorus. It is one of the most important minerals for memory, as it is essential in the formation of phosphatidylserine and phosphatidylcholine, which form part of neuronal synapses.

Precautions with vitamins for studying

Of course, it is important to remember that it is not advisable to combine two methods such as energy drinks with medicines or vitamins that enhance attention, as this can cause tachycardia or other serious problems. Another risk, if the correct dose is not taken, is overdose due to the accumulation of toxic substances. It is important to consult a pharmacist. Despite their benefits, food supplements should not replace a varied and balanced diet, but complement it, and they should go hand in hand with a healthy lifestyle. So do not think twice and enjoy the supplement you need to ace the exams ahead. Encouragement and good luck from your trusted Farmaciasdirect team.