After a long day in the lab or a mentally exhausting exam, it can be tempting to reach for quick, on-the-go snacks instead of a well-balanced meal. From brain-boosting dark chocolate to heart-healthy yogurt, there are plenty of delicious options that offer more than just empty calories. Let’s explore some smart snack choices that can keep you energized and focused, even on the busiest of days.

Blissful For the Brain

Dark Chocolate: Great choice for a quick energy boost and a bit of a memory boost. Whether you need a quick sugar rush before a test or between classes, dark chocolate has your back.

Just be mindful of the sugar content—choose dark chocolate with a higher cocoa percentage for the most benefits. 

Energizing for the Eyes

Sunflower Seeds: Excellent for eye health thanks to their high Vitamin E content. An ounce of sunflower seeds provides about half the recommended daily intake of Vitamin E—now that’s eye-opening! They’re also a great snack for when you’re on the go. 

Healing for the Heart

Yogurt: Yogurt, whether it’s Chobani, Go-Gurt or Activia, is a true love for your heart. Packed with probiotics, yogurt can help reduce the risk of heart disease. It is also beneficial for gut health. Opt for low-sugar or plain varieties to keep it heart-healthy.

Beneficial for the Bones 

Prunes: After a long trek up the Hill, your bones might feel like they’re trudging through the desert. To strengthen your bones, consider snacking on prunes. They’re surprisingly good for bone health due to their high content of vitamins and minerals. They also make for a sweet and satisfying snack. 

Amazing for Antioxidants

Nuts: Packed with antioxidants and fiber, nuts are great for overall health. Walnuts and almonds are particularly good for maintaining heart health and reducing inflammation. Just 7 grams of fiber can decrease your stroke risk by 7%—that’s significant! 

A Recent Research

Doritos and Food Dyes: A recent study found that a food dye in Doritos, Yellow No. 5, can make mouse skin translucent. It hints at potential benefits for the medical community through visual assistance in viewing veins for blood draw and providing hopes for early cancer detection. While this is a fun fact, it’s always a good idea to enjoy processed foods in moderation. The potential medical benefits of food dyes are still being researched, so keeping a balanced diet is key.

Enjoy your snacks and meals, and good luck with your lab work and tests!

Commentary Writer Vidhi Parekh can be reached at [email protected].