Sending care packages to college students is a long-standing tradition. Parents, friends, and loved ones want to send comfort from home, usually in the form of snacks, sweet treats, and energy drinks to help students power through late-night study sessions. The intention is thoughtful—after all, college is stressful, and students deserve a little pick-me-up.
But what if the typical college care package is actually making things worse?
Many of the snacks found in traditional care packages are loaded with sugar, artificial ingredients, and processed foods that can negatively impact a student’s mood, energy levels, and ability to focus. While these treats may provide a temporary boost, they often lead to energy crashes, brain fog, and increased stress.
Instead of fueling students with junk food, it’s time to rethink care packages in a way that actually helps them thrive.
The Hidden Costs of Sugary and Processed Foods
It’s no secret that what we eat directly affects how we feel and perform. But for college students—who are already under significant stress—the impact is even greater.
1. Sugar Spikes and Energy Crashes
A diet high in sugar causes blood sugar levels to spike, giving a short-lived burst of energy, followed by an inevitable crash. This cycle can leave students feeling exhausted, sluggish, and unable to focus. Research from Harvard Medical School suggests that excess sugar consumption is linked to higher levels of fatigue and difficulty concentrating—two things no college student needs during finals week.
2. Impact on Mental Health
Studies have found that diets high in processed foods and sugar can contribute to increased anxiety and depression. According to National Geographic, ultra-processed foods have been shown to damage the brain, increasing the risk of mood disorders. For students already dealing with the pressures of academic life, a diet that exacerbates anxiety can make it even harder to manage stress and stay motivated.
3. Reduced Cognitive Function and Focus
Cognitive performance is directly tied to nutrition. A study published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that consuming too much sugar can negatively impact memory and learning ability. Additionally, Lone Star Neurology reports that diets high in sugar and processed foods have been linked to cognitive decline and an increased risk of neurological disorders.
For students, this means that grabbing sugary snacks before class or loading up on processed foods during late-night study sessions could actually be making it harder to retain information and perform well academically.
4. Gut Health and Stress
The gut and the brain are closely connected, and an unhealthy diet can throw off this balance. Poor gut health is linked to increased stress, inflammation, and even difficulty regulating emotions. Additional research suggests that consuming a diet full of processed foods can disrupt gut bacteria, leading to mood swings and higher levels of stress.
For college students, a diet that negatively impacts their mental well-being can make it harder to focus in class, complete assignments, and build strong social connections.
A Better Alternative: Wellness Boxes Designed for Student Success
If sugary snacks and processed foods aren’t the answer, what is?
Instead of sending a care package filled with junk food that could actually make students feel worse, consider giving them a wellness box designed to support their mental health, focus, and overall well-being.
A thoughtful, wellness-focused care package can include:
✔ Items to promote restful sleep – Sleep is crucial for academic success. Include things like pillow sprays infused with calming lavender, cozy blankets, or sleep masks to encourage relaxation before bed.
✔ Inspiration to lift their spirits – What we tell ourselves matters. Journals with motivational quotes, affirmation cards, or small desk trinkets with positive reminders can help keep their mindset strong.
✔ The power of scent to reduce stress and boost energy – Scents like lavender and chamomile are known for their calming properties, while citrus, eucalyptus, and peppermint can provide an instant energy lift.
✔ Stress-relieving sensory tools – Fidget spinners, puzzle cubes, or essential oil-infused sensory playdough engage the senses and help reduce anxiety, calm nerves, and improve focus.
✔ A reason to smile – Sometimes, laughter really is the best medicine. Fun gag gifts or small items with happy emojis can provide a much-needed mood boost during stressful moments.
✔ Mood-lifting reminders – Keepsakes for their desk, nightstand, or backpack can serve as daily affirmations of how loved, capable, and amazing they are.
Or, you can turn to a family-owned business like Apple Affirmations and gift your student a curated EnergizeU Wellness Box.
Order an EnergizeU Finals Box just in time for end-of-year exams, or give them a subscription so they receive a new wellness box every quarter / semester—right when they need it most.
EnergizeU Wellness Box Benefits:
✔️ Boosts energy naturally – No sugar crashes, just long-lasting focus
✔️ Supports mental well-being – Tools for mindfulness, stress relief, and self-care
✔️ Enhances productivity – Items that help students stay focused and organized
✔️ Promotes relaxation – Calming tools to help students de-stress and recharge
By replacing sugary care packages with wellness-focused alternatives, parents and loved ones can empower students to thrive—academically, emotionally, and socially.
A wellness box isn’t just a thoughtful gift—it’s a powerful tool to help students manage stress, build healthy habits, and feel truly supported.
Final Thoughts
Traditional care packages may come from a place of love, but they often fall short in actually helping students succeed. Instead of sending a box full of sugary snacks that lead to energy crashes, mood swings, and poor focus, consider giving a gift that supports their well-being.
Whether you curate a wellness care package yourself or send an EnergizeU Wellness Box from Apple Affirmations, you’re making a real difference in their ability to stay focused, feel their best, and tackle the challenges of college life with confidence.
🎁 Want to help a college student thrive? Check out Apple Affirmations and send a wellness box today!