Eating right in college can be challenging for a number of reasons. Buying fast food may be easier than cooking. You might live in a dorm and not have access to a stove. Your friends may seemingly always want to go out to dinner. Snacking all day seems harmless. The list goes on…
How important is eating healthy?
You may not see the point of caring about what food goes into your body, but the habits that we build in college will carry over into our adult lives. Additionally, making smart eating choices has many long and short term benefits. A study from the National Institutes of Health found a correlation between eating regular meals (including breakfast) and an intake of the proper amount of fruit, with higher academic achievement.
How can I make a change?
Eat three meals a day.
Skipping breakfast is common among college students. Breakfast can help improve your energy levels, improve your ability to concentrate, as well as reduce the risk of type 2 diabetes and heart disease.
Plan your meals ahead of time
Making a plan for the week helps reduce the uncertainty and rash decisions to eat poorly. It is easier to decide ahead of time what healthier alternative you can substitute.
Eat on the same schedule
Try to keep consistent meal times. This will help you remember to eat three meals a day.
Add in some green
Add some fruits and vegetables to meals when you can for extra nutrition.
Portion control
If you struggle with eating too much, eat on smaller plates and avoid the excess calories.
Enjoy the little things.
Eating healthy doesn’t necessarily mean deprivation of delicious food. Allowing yourself the freedom to enjoy the sweet treats of life every now and then will keep you from feeling angry when you eat.
Small changes build up over time. Start small, be consistent and better eating habits will develop over time.
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