Caffeine and other energy-boosting drugs are not as beneficial as they may seem for students looking to keep up with end-of-semester demands, OU health professionals said.

Although caffeine may provide a quick energy boost, in time it will cause a crash that is not beneficial to students’ energy levels or ability to study, said Heather Kirkes, Huston Huffman Center fitness and outreach coordinator.

“You don’t feel rested or get a good sleep after drinking caffeine,” Kirkes said. “It makes you feel drained afterwards.”

Instead, students should focus on eating a balanced diet throughout the day, and drink plenty of water to feel regenerated, Kirkes said. Tea is also a healthier alternative to coffee and contains reduced amounts of caffeine, Kirkes said.

Other stimulants, such as the prescription drug Adderall, may also appear to be beneficial in boosting energy but can cause feelings of panic, blurred vision, sleep problems and seizures when used long-term or in high doses, according to the National Center for Biotechnology Information website.

The brain needs fuel to concentrate and focus, preferably in the form of blood sugars, OU Health Services dietitian Patti Landers said. However, this does not include junk food or foods full of processed sugars.

Students should complement sugars with proteins and healthy fats such as milk, eggs, cheese, fish, peanut butter, olive oil and nuts, Landers said.

“Do not go longer than four or five hours during the day without eating,” Landers said. “Signs of physical hunger include stomach growling, feeling weak or dizzy and inattention or inability to concentrate.”

Exercise breaks are also one of the best things for students hoping to boost their energy during finals, Kirkes said.

“Exercise keeps your metabolism strong and steady,” Kirkes said. “Students should try to stay active on a daily basis. Plus, exercise can be good for stress relief.”

Even if students do not want to take the time to go to the gym, something as quick as a short walk around the house or some stretches can be beneficial, OU Health Services spokeswoman Maggie Pool said.

“This will help increase energy levels and will also give your eyes a rest from staring at a book or computer for long periods of time,” Pool said.

Finally, students should get plenty of good rest, which caffeine will inhibit, Pool said. Lack of sleep and energy affects concentration and focus.