Taco Bell, Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Burger King: what do they all have in common? They are all fast food establishments on college campuses across the United States.
As easy as it is to roll up to Tim Horton's before your 8 a.m. after an all-nighter, grab a donut and an XL coffee, and head to class. Those early morning habits most likely contributed or are contributing to the "Freshman 15." There are a variety of factors that contribute to college weight gain, some including a decrease in physical activity, increased intake of sugary drinks, and unlimited food choices in the numerous dining halls on campus. A study conducted at the University of Alabama found that 70 percent of college students gain weight during their four-year stint, and overall, 31 percent of students were overweight.
Here are five easy ways to eat healthy on campus, and I promise they won't make you miserable. And it might actually save you some money in the long run!
1. Plan ahead
Do you plan on staying in the library for six hours to cram for your exam tomorrow? How about lunch? What about a mid-morning snack before your marathon of classes? And dinner after work? That. Sounds. Exhausting. And it also sounds like a lot of chances to swap that unhealthy food from the drive-thru for a healthier snack that will keep you fuller for longer. Thankfully, there's a way you can stay on top of all of this by prepping your meals beforehand. Meal prepping sounds really douchey, I know. But trust me when I say it is a life saver. All you have to do is invest in a lunch bag, like this one, and go to town with all the food you're going to eat that day. That way, you're not stuck getting a double-decker cheeseburger for lunch, and you can avoid those cravings for fatty foods.
2. Stock up
If you live in a dorm, I highly suggest that you invest in a mini-fridge if you don't have one already. And when you need to cook food, your floor should have a kitchen that is fully equipped with a stove/microwave, etc. That way, when you go grocery shopping, you have plenty of room to store frozen veggies, chicken, and whatever else you decide to prep in your meals.
3. Remember what food is for
Food is fuel for your body. Have you ever noticed after you eat a balanced meal of protein, fruits/veggies, and water how genuinely good you feel? That's because you're giving your body enough nutrients to work properly. Eating less does not help you lose fat—but eating better does. Always feeling sore after workouts? Food can help!
4. Eat mindfully
Have you ever found yourself binge-watching your favorite show on Netflix and the next thing you know, your bag of chips is gone? Yeah, been there, done that. When you're eating, put away all your distractions and focus on eating. Studies show that it can have a positive effect on body image, emotional eating, and food cravings.
5. Enjoy yourself!
Lastly, in the words of Tom Haverford and Donna Meagle: treat yo' self. Eating ice cream, cake, and other delicious desserts shouldn't make you feel bad! Eat a cupcake once in a while! They're there for you to enjoy in moderation—and please do, to keep your sanity.
