Brainfood: the right energy for the exam

Our grandmothers already had this saying in their repertoire. And it's still true: you are what you eat. Translated into the world of the technological revolution and in relation to a situation in which maximum physical and mental fitness is required, one could also say: top-class output is only possible if the input is clever enough. Applied to the examinations of Swiss Marketing candidates, which last several hours, this can only mean that: Nutrition before and especially during the big test must be a top priority. Unfortunately, not all talented candidates taking the exam are aware of this, says Claude Dubois: "All too often, we still see whole towers of chocolate and other sweets on the tables of our graduates - a form of nutrition that certainly does not guarantee optimal performance during the exam. " It is very important to the Head of Examinations at Swiss Marketing that the candidates are well prepared in every respect for their big day. "And that," says Dubois, "includes nutrition to a large extent." It may seem surprising at first that an examination organization would prioritize such a topic. But Swiss Marketing is serious about it - for good reason, says Dubois: "We don't focus on this area for some esoteric reason, but because it has a very direct influence on performance at the exam."

Brainfood tips in the exam package

Swiss Marketing is using new methods to raise awareness of this issue among future exam candidates. Firstly, a flyer on this issue has been produced in collaboration with Corinne Spahr from Bern - the former World Cup ski racer is now a qualified nutritionist HF. Entitled "Brainfood to help you prepare for exams", it provides information on all aspects of this issue. The summary reads as follows: "You can't eat any better than you already are. But the right choice of food and drink provides the ideal conditions for concentrated thinking and cool heads." Dubois can well imagine that this information will have a particular impact on younger participants of the so-called "Red Bull generation": "We think that our input will mainly resonate with young talents who are preparing for the marketing specialist or sales specialist exams." The flyer will now also be included in the exam pack so that candidates are made aware of the topic early enough. The aim would be to influence habits in the time leading up to the exam. This would also be in the interests of Corinne Spahr: "Nutrition is one of the relevant pieces of the puzzle when it comes to performing as well as possible in an exam."

Best practice in the food sector

The flyer not only provides information on how important building blocks such as protein, carbohydrates and omega-3 fatty acids work, but also manages to provide very specific tips. Things that every candidate has probably heard at some point - but has long forgotten before the exam and, against their better judgment, has resorted to the supposed performance boosters of coffee, energy drinks and sugar bombs. The most important building blocks for success:

- Liquid for transporting nutrients to the brain. Best practice: water, water flavored with syrup, diluted fruit juices, herbal and fruit teas.
- Omega-3 fatty acids as a lubricant for data transmission. Best practice: Oils such as rapeseed oil, fish, nuts and linseed.
- Protein for memory and the flow of information: Best practice: milk and dairy products, meat, fish, eggs, tofu, soy or legumes
- Carbohydrates for the brain's energy supply. Best practice: Dark breads, polenta, potatoes, pasta, etc.

With an actual "checklist for the day of the exam", the flyer specifically suggests how to get ready on the day of the exam. The checklist, which can also be used as a shopping list, does not come across as hostile at all. In addition to the recommendations that are derived from the four main directions, eternal consumer favorites such as Nutella, chocolate drinks and cereal bars are also included - in well-dosed form. It may be unusual for a professional association to give its people nutritional tips. But in an effort to do the best for its community, brain food is an important issue that deserves priority. After all, when it comes to professional success, marketers - established and future - should leave nothing to chance. In addition to clean marketing concepts, a concept for your own nutrition is an absolute must.