It is unequivocal in it's strength where I study hard and feel the need to consume carbs, then I feel very focused, can continue on and I'm able to "apply" myself to the extensive reading I have to do.

It's not like my stomach is desperate to eat carbs,more the contrary. But, it's my brain that feels it after hours of studying academic papers. After a day of writing reports, a slice of beef etc. doesn't do anything to keep me going.

What is that about? I have tried munching on nuts, snacking on jerky, eggs, even tbsp of coconut oil hasn't helped. They are not contributing to better concentration or focus until I eat a slice of bread which seems to keep me going for ages without feeling debilitated, but of course, there are consequences to that.
It is a catch 22, when you want to get maximum effort out of study by fueling right, with the risk of weight gain in the process. Ugh.

I thought coconut oil, at least would keep me focused. Nada.

Anyone else experience this, what do you do?