It’s the time of year during college when healthy habits can go out the window. After all, you barely have time to recover from your Thanksgiving food coma until you’re thrown into the crunch of finals.

Luckily, there are a few easy snacks you can depend on as you get your brain into gear for studying. Pick up these ingredients from your local grocery store, or stop by Local Flow Health Bar in McMinnville for a quick, affordable, and healthy eating. (Plus, Local Flow is owned by two Linfield College grads!).

1. Apples and Almond Butter

When you study, it can be really easy to reach for the bag of chips or popcorn. It gives you something to do as you study and it’s easy enough to keep eating. The thing about chips and popcorn is that they’re loaded with sodium and carbohydrates that’ll ultimately leave you feeling bloated, foggy, and tired.

Instead of grabbing the chips, consider apple slices and a protein butter. You get the crunch and easy-eating that you like with chips, but with more nutrition. If you can, try to eat the apples with protein so that you aren’t just absorbing the sugar from the fruit. Plus, protein keeps you feeling fuller for longer. We love organic, sugar-free almond butter.

2. Oatmeal

Instead of popping some bread into the toaster on your way out, choose oatmeal instead. This breakfast choice is still quick and inexpensive, but it’s way more nutrient-dense than toast. You can load your oatmeal with chia seeds, cacao nibs, dried fruit, honey, and protein butters for more texture and flavor.

3. Blueberries

Blueberries are an all-star when it comes to nutritious value. They’re packed with antioxidants and they promote brain function. Add them to your oatmeal or smoothies or just eat them plain to reap their benefits.

4. Avocado

Avocado toast has swept the nation for many reasons, but the fact that avocado is great for the brain is probably chief among them. Avocados are loaded with healthy fats and omega-3 fatty acids, so they keep you feeling full and help to maintain a healthy blood sugar level.

5. Bananas

Like apples, bananas are a great vessel for protein butters. On their own, though, bananas are still loaded with potassium and vitamins. They’re cheap, filling, and easy to transport.

Take A Study Break at Local Flow Health Bar

As a local restaurant owned and operated by two Linfield College grads, Local Flow Health Bar understands first-hand the stress that comes with exam season. The first things to go during this time are usually sleep and healthy eating.

This year, though, don’t let poor nutrition affect your studying. Instead, stop by Local Flow for quick, healthy eating. We have smoothies, lunch bowls, juices, smoothie bowls, and all sorts of healthy options.

Take a look at our healthy eating menu to see what else we offer at Local Flow!

Come on by or take advantage of our delivery and online order options to maximize your time.