As students we are presented with a greater challenge than most others face while trying to maintain a healthy diet. As I can tell you from four years of college experience, eating well can be a difficult process if we are not provided with the proper knowledge and tools.
Making poor eating decisions and not exercising to combat those decisions have become the norm for most college students.
College seems to throw up a lot of roadblocks to healthy eating that non-students don’t seem to have to deal with, including super-tight budgets, lack of cooking talent and ridiculously busy schedules.
While eating healthy in college can be difficult, it’s not impossible, especially if you follow these tips.
Don’t skip meals- In particular, breakfast is easy to skip when you’re rushing to attend your first class of the day. Set your alarm in time to make it to the dining hall. Or keep easy items in your dorm room/kitchen, like protein bars, peanut butter sandwiches, yogurt and whole grain cereal.
Choose wisely at the salad bar- When trying to eat healthy in college, many students turn to the salad bar. Salads are a great option, but be careful when selecting toppings. Choose vegetables, lean proteins and oil-based dressings. Try to avoid prepared salads with mayo, cheese and creamy dressings.
Plan Your Days- Review your school, work and practice schedules to see where you’ll fit in meals, social activities and time for yourself. If you don’t have time to go to Main Dining, pack a sandwich and snacks to eat between classes.
Watch Your Alcohol Intake- Alcohol dehydrates you and affects your health. Be responsible and mindful of your drinking decisions. Keep in mind that beer is filled with unwanted calories that go straight to your belly.
College is a busy time. By making your health a priority, you can enjoy the benefits it brings and become more successful in all of your endeavors.