Four Tips For Healthful Eating In College

Because the average college student is normally under a lot of stress and is generally crunched for time, it may be difficult to maintain a balanced diet.

Skipping meals and eating fast food may seem like simple solutions, but they can be unhealthy in the long run. The following is a list of ways to make the grade and make time for health.

1. Eat Breakfast

Eating a balanced breakfast is a great way to start the day and is associated with academic achievement. If you’re in a rush, make sure to grab a bagel, some fruit and juice. Additionally, it may be tempting to add extra sugar to your breakfast in coffee, tea or cereal. However, extra sugar adds unnecessary calories to your diet and can contribute to tooth decay.

2. Stay Hydrated

The average amount of water a person needs is dependent upon body water. However, the general rule is to drink eight glasses a day. If you exercise, you may need more. Carry a water bottle to class or drink an extra glass at the dining hall to stay hydrated.

Limiting your alcohol intake can help in staying hydrated. It’s also important to remember that alcohol has little to no nutritional value and is generally high in calories.

3. Diet Intelligently

If you must diet, do it in a healthy way. Starvation or fad diets are not the answer to weight loss, thought they may seem like easy and quick solutions. The only safe way to lose weight is to eat a balanced diet and exercise.

4. Choose Wholesome Foods

Between meals or during a late night study session, it’s important to chose wholesome snacks over junk food. Fresh or dried fruit, pretzels, rice cakes, low-fat yogurt, raw vegetables, or cottage cheese are all great snack options. Foods high in calcium like milk, low-fat cheese and green leafy vegetables can be beneficial additions to your diet and can prevent osteoporosis later in life.

Source: JDRF

Photo credit: Adam Jones, Ph.D.