Exam season can be overwhelming, with long study hours and mounting pressure. To help students stay focused, energised, and resilient, our nutritionist Leticia shares her advice on habits and nutritional support for managing stress.

When asked what habits she recommends for students, Leticia explains:

Small but consistent choices create a foundation for both physical and mental performance during exam season.

Leticia also highlights key nutrients and herbs that can support brain function:

Designs for Health OmegAvail™ 1250

High-potency omega-3s to support memory, focus, and healthy brain function.

Micronutrition Advanced B Complex

A complete blend of B vitamins to help maintain energy and concentration.

100% pure Creatine Monohydrate to support mental clarity and short-term memory, particularly during stress.

Designs for Health TriGandha™

A premium ashwagandha blend to promote calmness and resilience to stress.

Relieves symptoms of stress and mild anxiety.

100% pure KSM-66® ashwagandha root to help reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, promote relaxation, and enhance cognitive performance.

L-theanine, found in matcha, has been associated with improved concentration and alertness.

Balanced daily routines, nutritious meals, mindful breaks, sufficient rest and sleep, and the right nutritional support can make a big difference to how students feel and perform during exams. With small, consistent tweaks to daily habits, students can approach the HSC season with greater calm and confidence.

Leticia Gagliardi is a nutrition scientist with a background in Nutritional Sciences from Maastricht University, where she researched the gut–brain axis and how diet influences cognition. She has also worked as a lead researcher in the Netherlands, studying gut health and chronic disease. Passionate about the connection between food, gut microbiota, and overall wellbeing, Leticia now applies her evidence-based knowledge to help people make balanced, practical, and sustainable nutrition choices.