Fuel Your Body, Feed Your Mind: 6 Nutrient-Packed Picks from Anabel’s Grocery

By Annalysse Melendez,

At Cornell, where busy schedules and brainpower go hand in hand, finding the right foods to keep you energized, focused, and healthy is key. That’s where Anabel’s Grocery comes in a student-led, affordable grocery store that’s here to support your well-being one nutrient-rich bite at a time. This week, we’re spotlighting six powerhouse foods you can find right on Anabel’s shelves. Whether you’re meal-prepping or grabbing a quick snack, these ingredients deliver major benefits without breaking the bank.

🥜 1. Walnuts: Brain Food in a Shell

Walnuts are like little nuggets of brain fuel. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and plant-based protein, they help support cognitive function, reduce inflammation, and even improve your mood (hello, pre-exam calm). Toss them on oatmeal, salads, or just grab a handful as a snack.

🍓 2. Frozen Berries: Sweet, Smart, and Budget-Friendly

Frozen berries think blueberries, strawberries, raspberries are packed with vitamin C, fiber, and powerful antioxidants that support your immune system and protect your cells from stress (just like your study breaks should). Plus, they last way longer than fresh ones, making them perfect for smoothies, yogurt bowls, or oatmeal.

🥚 3. Eggs: The Ultimate All-Rounder

Eggs are an affordable source of complete protein, which means they contain all nine essential amino acids your body needs. They’re also rich in vitamin B12, choline, and healthy fats nutrients that are crucial for brain health, energy levels, and muscle repair. Scramble them, boil them, or throw them into a breakfast wrap with some spinach and avocado!

🥑 4. Avocados: Creamy, Dreamy, and Nutrient-Dense

Avocados bring more than just their Insta-worthy green glow. They’re full of heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and key nutrients like potassium (even more than bananas!). They help keep you full, stabilize blood sugar levels, and support healthy skin and hair. Smash on toast or add to a salad you can’t go wrong.

🌱 5. Spinach: A Leafy Green Classic

Spinach is a go-to for a reason. It’s packed with iron, folate, magnesium, and vitamin K all of which help keep your energy up and your bones strong. Add it to eggs, smoothies, pasta, or sauté it as a quick side. Pro tip: cooking spinach helps your body absorb more of its nutrients!

🥬 6. Kale: The MVP of Greens

Kale might have a reputation as a wellness trend, but it’s earned it. This dark leafy green is loaded with vitamins A, C, K, calcium, and powerful compounds that support immune function and detoxification. Massage it with olive oil for salads, blend it into smoothies, or bake it into crunchy kale chips for a satisfying snack.

Why It MattersAt Anabel’s Grocery, we believe that nutritious food should be accessible to all Cornell students not just a luxury. These ingredients don’t just support your physical health; they power your focus, your hustle, and your ability to thrive on campus. Stock up, get creative, and nourish yourself with real food that fuels real lives.

Hungry for more? Stop by Anabel’s, follow us on Instagram, and check out our recipe cards in-store to turn these ingredients into easy meals you’ll actually look forward to.