It’s that time of the semester again. Finals week is upon us, and that means caffeine, late nights and lots of snacking. Lots of students feel the effects of a grueling finals schedule, not just because they are tired, but because of the poor diet they develop during the two weeks spent studying and taking exams.

These two weeks take a toll on your body because you are sleeping odd hours, have no time to exercise, and opt for fast food instead of taking the time to prepare a healthy meal.

People will often bring a bag of chips to the library to munch on or grab candy for a midnight snack. Two weeks of living a sedentary lifestyle and eating junk food can take a serious toll on your body. There are simple swaps you can make to get through finals without putting on any extra pounds.

Energy drinks can leave you feeling jittery and end with a crash. Switching out energy drinks for coffee or tea is a better solution. These drinks will help keep you awake through study sessions and help you avoid a devastating crash, possibly in the middle of your test.

Eating healthy is the key to staying focused and energized while pushing through the end of the year. Rather than reaching for chips or candy, pack healthy snacks to bring to the library.

If you’re in a rush to get to a test, grab a protein bar. KIND bars and Think Thin bars are protein-filled snacks that can keep you going through a test. Any bar that is packed with protein will keep your body fueled and your brain sharp.

If you’re in your dorm or an apartment, fruits and vegetables can be combined with something with protein for a healthy snack. Celery with peanut butter or fruit with Greek yogurt are excellent snack options that won’t leave you feeling bloated or sluggish.

Drink plenty of water, especially if you are staying up late and consuming extra caffeine. Hydration is the key to staying healthy, especially now hat the weather is heating up.

If you get the chance, a quick gym session can give you a boost of endorphins, which will give you the energy to keep studying late at night. Even just a quick half hour on the treadmill can give you the chance to clear your mind and the boost to finish a paper.

Sleep. The brain functions better when it is well rested. Information is transferred into the long-term memory when your body is in deep sleep. While it is hard, make the time to get in some solid hours of sleep.