As Australian teens prepare for some of the most important exams of their lives, Meat & Livestock Australia is encouraging parents to ensure protein rich snacks are on hand to improve their chances of success.

It follows the release of a study commissioned by MLA that shows snacking behaviours may be compromising student study routines and resulting in significant time wastage.

The survey revealed that the average student snacks as much as three  times on a typical study day – with students favouring treats like chips, lollies or chocolate, over more nutritious food choices.

Almost three quarters (73pc) of students say they snack more when studying for exams, with as many as 30pc thinking about food or snacking most or all of the time during a study session.

Accredited Practicing Dietitian Geraldine Georgeou, together with Meat & Livestock Australia, has developed a  specially formulated “Study Diet” and “Exam Tips” to ensure parents can play a more proactive role in their teens’
exam prep.

“Poor food choices aren’t providing the brain fuel teens need, so study time is wasted scouring the  pantry shelves and raiding the fridge in the constant search for more,” Geraldine said.

“The Study Diet provides healthy meals and snack ideas packed with nutrient-rich foods that are recommended in the Dietary Guidelines.

Choosing these foods such as beef and lamb 3 to 4 times a week keeps teens’ iron and zinc levels in check and keeps them feeling fuller for longer, focused and full of energy so they can study efficiently and perform well at exam time.”

“Including 3 to 4 serves of beef and lamb a week provides iron to support brain function and zinc for a healthy immune system. Survey results reveal that only one in ten students are snacking on nutrient-rich protein foods such as beef or lamb leftovers.

“Red meat is especially important at this time as low iron can contribute to tiredness and fatigue which may make it difficult to study effectively.

The Study Diet includes meal plans tailored to suit the nutrition needs of teenage boys and girls.

With detailed food choices for breakfast, lunch, dinner and numerous healthy snacking options, the Study Diet shows how eating right can be the first step to aid in study success.

For more details visit www.themainmeal.com.au/studydiet