Many people attribute good grades to high intelligence and disciplined study habits. While those things may play an important part in a student’s success, studies show that there are other elements that affect the ability of a student to perform well, both inside and outside of the classroom.

If you are a student who is doing poorly, or would like to improve your GPA, it is important to examine your habits so that the real problems can be addressed. Studying more may be the last thing that you should do. Do you lack motivation? Do you have a hard time staying awake? Do you often feel groggy, have trouble concentrating or have trouble remembering what you just read? For some, the problem could be learning difficulties or teen hormones. But for others, the solution may be just an apple away.

An apple, a good night’s sleep and regular exercise. Studies show that depression (or lack of motivation) can often be eliminated by a regular exercise routine. A low level of alertness and memory problems can often be improved by a good night’s sleep. Low energy levels and grogginess can be improved by a simple change in diet!

This is good news; you can improve your grades without studying until all odd hours of the morning. Making changes to your sleeping, eating and exercise habits can improve your grades AND the way you feel!

Below you will find my tips:

• Get a good night’s sleep. 8 hours minimum and the earlier your bed time, the better. Studies show that lack of sleep leads to increased irritability and a loss of focus and motivation.
• Exercise regularly. At least 20-30 minutes of cardio a day will do the trick.
• Eat responsibly. Yes, I said responsibly. If you owned a car, would you gas it up with water? Your body works the same way. Replace soda with water and avoid sugar and fried foods. When you do eat ice cream or French fries, limit the serving size. Your body will thank you later!
• Turn off the TV. Why spend life watching someone else living it?

Related Articles

Depression & Anxiety: Exercise Eases Symptoms
http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/depression-and-exercise/MH00043

More Sleep=Better Grades
http://www.pamf.org/teen/health/diseases/Sleep.html

The Role of Sleep in Memory
http://www.memory-key.com/NatureofMemory/sleep.htm

Exercise and Grades
http://www.family-life.us/news.php?viewStory=33

Diet and Memory
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/6560710/

Diet: One man’s cure for depression
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/health/4610998.stm

Diet and Depression Link
http://www.depression-help-for-you.com/diet-for-depression.html