Pariksha Pe Charcha: Experts Recommend Home-Cooked Meals and Reduced Sugar for Exam Stress Relief

Synopsis
Experts emphasize the importance of home-cooked food and a reduction in sugary items for enhancing energy and reducing exam stress, as discussed in the fourth episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025.
Key Takeaways
- Home-cooked meals boost energy and reduce stress.
- Limit sugary foods for better mental health.
- Incorporate millets into breakfast for sustained energy.
- Physical activity is essential even during exam times.
- Choose natural sugars for a positive mental state.
New Delhi, Feb 14 (NationPress) Consuming home-cooked meals and limiting sugary foods and beverages can enhance energy levels and alleviate exam-related stress, according to specialists during the fourth episode of Pariksha Pe Charcha 2025 on Friday.
During the episode, experts provided nutritional advice aimed at improving memory, maintaining energy, and enhancing focus during exam periods, as noted by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in a message on the social media platform X.
The specialists highlighted the importance of decreasing sugar intake, which can elevate stress.
Gut health expert Shonali Sabherwal emphasized the necessity of incorporating home-cooked meals into diets, particularly suggesting the inclusion of millets at breakfast. She stated, “Millets provide sustained energy for up to eight hours and help manage sugar cravings.”
Nutrition author and wellness expert Rujuta Diwekar mentioned that peanuts serve as an excellent stress-reliever, while energy drinks tend to heighten stress.
“Children frequently experience digestive troubles due to stress, resulting in conditions like diarrhea or constipation. A fruit that is beneficial for both issues is the banana, which is readily available,” Diwekar commented.
She also warned against the consumption of packaged foods that contribute to obesity and ailments such as diabetes and hypertension.
Health influencer FoodFarmer, also known as Revant Himatsingka, emphasized the importance of being mindful of one’s diet and its health implications.
Sabherwal advocated for a diet rich in high-fiber foods to promote good gut health and suggested including nuts.
Proper hydration and adequate sleep were also highlighted as vital components in managing stress.
Diwekar recommended engaging in physical activity even during exams, as it not only reduces stress but also improves posture.
Earlier, Sabherwal informed IANS that “children are increasingly opting for fast food over home-cooked meals, predominantly consuming items like pizza, burgers, and sweets that significantly raise sugar levels.”
“A high intake of these foods can adversely affect both physical and mental health. Elevated sugar levels can lead to mood swings and brain imbalances,” she cautioned.
The health expert advised choosing foods with natural sugars, such as sweet potatoes, beetroot, and carrots, which can help maintain a positive mental state.