Any ideas to keep me on track?

dashbeaujippers

I am a recent nursing school graduate, and right now, I am studying for my boards that are in less than 1 week. Been studying a little here, a little there, for the last month or so. Now it's crunch time, (SUPER STRESSFUL) and I find myself getting sleepy, and losing my stamina. I have taken to eating little snacks to try to keep me awake, charged and focused, but I end up consuming all of my calories throughout and 8 hr. study day, and am still hungry for a satisfying meal when I get home. I have been bringing apples, triscuits, g2 gatorade, and reduced fat string cheese with me to study.Today I was so tired, I slipped up, and bought a big bag of Peanut m&ms and ate the whole thing! That was 3.5 servings, totaling 770 calories! That put me over for the day, on my daily calorie allowance, and it is only late afternoon. What about dinner? I will have to ride the stationary bike for nearly an hour to get rid of that slip up! I don't feel that I have the energy nor the will to do that! I am feeling wiped out and discoutaged! Any suggestions ? I guess I should just do damage control for today, (eat fruit and veggies for dinner) as best as I can, and try to stay on a better path tomarrow. Does anyone have any "power foods" that they have found helpful to keep them full, focused, and energized? (I have been taking ginko biloba and ginseng supplements) I am not a naturally smart person, and I find studying to be physically and emotionally draining. Any helpful hints/suggestions would be greatly appreciated

Jolenebib

Honestly, if I were you, I wouldn't focus on on staying within my calorie count for this week. Just make sure you eat good food. Bring lots of fruits and veggies to snack on (these are lower in calories anyway). You need good fuel for your brain! You should just focus on your test, its stressful enough without having to worry about a diet. Go for a quick 10 minute walk when you start to feel groggy or just need a break.

Troll

I am a fan of sweet potato chunks, roasted in the oven (i eat the from the fridge later) with a cheese wedge (laughing cow french onion is yummy with them) The jolt of carbs usually keeps me going for a while

mydeloo78

Lots of veggies... eat baby carrots, celery, cucumber... popcorn, lots of volume for not so many calories. When i was studying I would get up every hour and make a cup of tea, your brain only absorbs so much each session anyways.

dashbeaujippers

Thank you. I just don't wanna get too off track, you know? While in nursing school, I gained 25 pounds! It took a little over 3 months to lose it all... I do realize that this studying for the exam does not have nearly the same duration as the nursing program, but I just don't want to go back there again. I was so uncomfortable, and unhappy. But I think you're right. managing a "diet" and a rigorous study schedule is too much. Clearly. I will take your advice and load my snack bag with fruits and veggies, because not only are they low in calories, but they have all kinds of healthy vitamins and minerals in them, which will also help me. I will also try the "10 minute, blow off some steam and wake up walk". Thank you so much for your help.

dashbeaujippers

Thanks to everyone that responded It can't hurt, and will probably help. I have laughing cow at home, and will pick up some cukes and sweet potatoes. Thanks again! ----Back to the books!