Get An A+ In Healthy Eating During College
Maintaining healthy habits during college can be difficult – luckily, there are a few simple ways to keep up with your health.
Avoid Eating Out
Though it might be simple and easy to eat out all the time after a hard day of studying, the large portions at restaurants can hurt your waistline and shrink your wallet. Find another way to socialize, like going for a jog instead of “doing lunch”.
Be the “Designated Driver”
Though eating a late night snack at a party or during cram sessions may seem tempting, some recommend eating most of your calories before 7 p.m. It’s important to remember a basic lesson in peer pressure in this context – just because everyone else is eating late, doesn’t mean you have to; however, it doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the fun. Volunteer to drive to a local donut store or diner, that way you don’t miss out on the laughs and inside jokes, but you don’t have to deal with the late night blood sugar swings.
Make a Routine
Though the first few weeks of college can be overwhelming, it’s important to create a regular eating schedule. Though your schedule will vary from day to day, setting a daily routine can help avoid eat-and-run situations that might lead to last minute candy bars instead of a healthful snack.
Don’t Forget to Exercise
Colleges often offer free exercise groups or gym memberships, so why not take advantage of it? Recreational teams and physical education classes are another great why to stay fit. Not to mention, working out can work up a healthy appetite.
Get Creative
Although heating up a bowl of ramen is easy, a little tweaking to the original recipe of certain “fast foods” can lead to a healthier diet. Instead of eating ramen as is, try draining half of the sodium-high liquid and adding 1 or 2 cups of frozen vegetables. Chicken, beans or tofu can add protein and fiber to your meal. Reducing the portion size can also cut down on calorie intake – plus, you’ll be have extra for a snack later.
Source: JDRF