In addition to taking SAT prep courses and getting a good night’s sleep the evening before the test, eating a meal prior to the exam will also increase the odds of getting a great score. The food will provide the body with energy, which will make it easier to focus. To boost your teenager’s brainpower, below are a few tips on what meal to prepare before the SAT.  

What to Eat Before the SAT

1. Stay Away From Carbohydrates 

Although your teenager shouldn’t skip breakfast before the SAT, they should bypass bagels, waffles, and other carb-heavy early-morning meals. Eating carbohydrates makes the body produce more tryptophan. This amino acid prompts the brain to produce serotonin. The neurotransmitter elicits a calming response that makes the brain feel tired and less alert.

2. Create a Protein-Packed Meal

Eating foods high in protein will improve brain function. Consuming protein helps brain neurons communicate with each other. Protein also increases the levels of tyrosine in the body. This amino acid aids in the production of norepinephrine and dopamine. These chemicals provide the body with energy and increase alertness.

If the SAT exam is in the morning, scrambled eggs and a glass of milk make for a good protein-packed breakfast. A chicken breast and steamed broccoli will also provide fuel for an afternoon exam.

3. Make a Shake to Satisfy Their Sweet Tooth 

If your teen normally has a doughnut and fruit juice in the morning, they should bypass this snack. The sugar content will increase glucose levels in the blood. When this happens, it can be hard to focus and remember information.

To satisfy sweet cravings, make a protein shake with blueberries instead. The fruit boosts cognitive function by helping brain cells communicate. 

For SAT prep courses to help your teenager ace the test and excel in math class, contact the instructors at Mathnasium in South Windsor, CT. The team tailors SAT prep courses to each child’s needs and provides one-on-one instruction so students can learn at their own pace. Call (860) 432-7794 to schedule tutoring services, and meet the instructors online.