It is notoriously difficult to stay healthy and fit while in college. Stress, poor food options, a packed schedule, and an active social life can easily deter you from taking care of yourself and your body. Just like many of my peers, I faced weight gain in college. I had been so physically active in high school that I was accustomed to being able to eat whatever I wanted, but I soon learned that there were consequences to making poor choices with my health.
In my next year of school I became much more conscious of trying to live a more healthy lifestyle, and in that year I learned that you don't need to live at the gym or stick to a strict diet of kale to be healthy. Small adjustments you make in your daily life can have an overall huge impact on your well-being.
1. Eat your vegetables in the cafeteria.
Vegetables can be pretty pricey at the store, not to mention that they can easily go bad. Making sure to eat plenty while you're in the cafeteria can ensure that you are getting all the nutrition you need, plus you can eat as much as you want while still paying just the one price of getting in to the cafeteria. I make it a personal goal to eat at least one bowl of vegetables or salad while I'm in the cafeteria, even if I splurge a bit with the other food on my plate.
2. Keep a scale in your room.
This made a huge difference in my quest to be healthier. Weighing myself every morning helped me to keep on track with my fitness, since I would be able to recognize any weight gain and try to adjust. While you shouldn't obsess over a number, it can help if you are trying to maintain a level of health.
3. Cut your portion sizes.
This one is obvious, but it's still so important. College can make it especially hard to monitor your portions, as being in the unlimited-food environment in your cafeteria or going out to eat with friends can make it easy to overindulge. Try to limit yourself to one plate in the cafeteria, and if you are still hungry you can supplement your meal with stuff from the salad bar. Also remember that restaurant portions are huge, so it can help to eat about half your meal and take the rest home. That's also a great way to make the most of your money!
4. Walk to your classes.
It can be so tempting to drive to your classes, but walking to them is a super easy way to be active, especially if you don't have time to go to the gym. It also helps you avoid terrible parking situations.
5. Avoid late night eating.
Late nights spent studying can often lead to late night snacking. Taco Bell was oftentimes my go-to late night fix, but that would also lead to stomachaches and weight gain. It's best to avoid eating within a few hours of you sleeping, so your body can properly digest your food. If you find yourself with late night cravings, it can help to drink water, tea, or eat a light snack instead of binging on unhealthy foods.
