Good diet can help children tide over exam stress

“During exams most students face a tough time. So,it is important for parents to provide a stress-free environment for their children. Many times children start taking drugs which badly disrupts their body,” says Sonia Narang,a former dietician with AIIMS.

“Proper diet sets you mood. You need to have a diet that does not upset your psychological and physical being,” she said.

Soups,vegetable sandwiches,fruit juices and milk for a good night sleep are recommended. Sprouts are also useful in increasing energy levels. Having 12-14 glasses of water to maintain the hydration level of the body is another advantage.

Snacks like ‘chana’,’murmura’,dry fruits and roasted grains can also be of great help during exams.

However,sweets,oily and junk food should be voided as they cause stomach problems and makes one lazy and sleepy,according to another dietician.

“For students,who are in 10th and 12th class,competition and the pressure to score good marks generally forces them to sleep less and they ignore their diet. But a proper diet can go a long way in making a difference,” says Narang.

Psychiatrist Sameer Parekh says “exams period is just a short phase. Children just need the support of their parents and need to prepare in advance.”

According to a study conducted by the Max Healthcare foundation,40 per cent of boys and girls questioned said they experience a high level of stress before exams and an equal number feel they do not have enough time to finish their course.

Vaishali Vats,a Class X student says that she finds the period very difficult and has to consult a doctors. However,she is fascinated by the idea of having a particular diet during exams.

“The time is so scary and I hardly feel like having food but having a particular kind of diet would be interesting,” she said.