You may know the phrase, “you are what you eat.” It’s a truism you’ll especially want to keep in mind while enduring the rigors of your MCAT preparation.
The importance of healthy eating
Many pre-meds ask what they can do to improve their overall diet and avoid neglecting their health while studying. Most of us know the things we should be eating and not eating, but the problem is usually that there’s simply not enough time to eat better.
We’re here to help you reboot your study routine with healthy eating habits that lead to happier MCAT prep. Eating better leads to feeling better, and feeling better in your physical health means you are mentally sharper and all the more likely to study efficiently, retain more information, and avoid stress. This is the key to building your MCAT content base in a limited amount of time.
A balanced pre-med lifestyle
We consistently mention how busy we are and how busy the pre-med lifestyle can be. However, with a little bit of planning, you can eat better and in turn feel better along the way. As an aspiring physician, you are going to be a leader in healthcare and will be looked at not only as a source of information but also as a role model for living a healthy lifestyle. If you can start finding time now, these positive habits can stick with you throughout your career.
Plan for the week ahead
Start by picking one day a week dedicated to grocery shopping. This way it will be part of your schedule and you will stick to it. Planning ahead helps avoid those times when you there is no food in the house and you order pizza instead.
When you go to the store, pick up fresh fruits and vegetables. When you get home, cut them up right away and store them in tupperware so that you have a quick and easy snack you can pull out of the fridge when on your way to class or the library. Choose foods that are high in dietary fiber. These foods will help with heart health, maintain fullness, promote a healthy weight, and most importantly aid in proper digestion.
Balance studying and nutrition
Another great idea is to keep non-perishable snacks in your book bag so you always have something on the go. Great options are nuts, dried fruit, granola bars, or beef jerky. If you can find the time, another option is to cook in large batches on a night when you don’t have as many things going on. Then, allot portions and freeze them so you always have a meal you can heat up in the microwave.
Feeling better in your MCAT prep
These tips will help you take control of your diet, even in times when you are overwhelmed by studying. Cooking can be therapeutic and offer relaxing time away from studying. Alternatively, you can always review MCAT flashcards while you prepare meals. Either way, it’s important to plan ahead so as to maintain a healthy mind and body.
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