Fueling Grad School: A Summer Nutrition Series for Graduate Students

July 22, 23, 24
10 - 11 a.m.
via Zoom

Whether you are powering through lab work, writing your dissertation, or teaching undergrads, this three-part virtual series is here to help you fuel your body and mind. Join Anna Helfrich, Lead Dietician at Wardenburg Health Center to learn how to boost energy, sharpen focus, and support your mental well-being—all through simple, sustainable nutrition strategies. 

Focus Fuel — Smart Snacking & Sustained Energy

Day 1: Tuesday, July 22

• What to eat (and when) to reduce brain fog and maintain focus
• The science of snacking for energy and attention span
• Easy, portable snack ideas and grab-and-go campus options
• Understanding blood sugar dips and their effect on mood
• Bonus: Quick snack prep demo or snack list PDF (can email to students or drop off printed copies)

Brain Food & Mood — Eating for Mental Health and Emotional Resilience

Day 2: Wednesday, July 23

• The food-mood connection: how nutrients affect brain chemistry
• What to eat during high-stress weeks (and what to be mindful of eating)
• Emotional eating under academic pressure and how to respond with curiosity rather than guilt
• Supplements: What might help and what is just hype
• Bonus: “Brain foods” grocery list download

Fueling a Busy Life — Meal Planning, Hydration & Sleep Support

Day 3: Thursday, July 24

• 15-minute meal ideas and batch cooking basics
• Budget-friendly shopping tips for low time/energy days
• Eating to support restful sleep
• Hydration hacks and caffeine timing for mental performance
• Late-night eating strategies for focus without disrupting sleep
• Bonus: Meal planning template and Hydration Cheat Sheet

Open to ALL graduate students and postdocs!