Leading a healthy lifestyle is a challenge most people, myself included, struggle with every day. When I talk about healthy, I'm not only referring to eating habits, but combining the correct food choices with the right amount of sleep and exercise. This becomes harder in college when we can no longer depend entirely on ourselves to make the right decision. Due to hectic schedules, classes and homework, there is no energy left to consider the best food options. The problem partially lies in the fact that the best food is the most expensive, and let's be honest; the dining halls and cafes definitely don't make our lives easier.
The biggest issue, I find, is the lack of variety in the dining halls. There seems to be an excess amount of meat and fried food. While that can satisfy a craving and a moment of hunger, in the long run, if eaten regularly, will leave the stomach feeling uneasy, and it won't provide good energy. This, more often than not, will result in the body crashing. On the other hand, there is a clear shortage of options for those who are vegans, vegetarians or those who eat dairy- or gluten-free. Although I personally don't have any dietary restrictions, I still struggle to find the right food to eat. Another issue is that since we are spending a good amount of money on our meal plans, many of us don't want to spend a fortune on healthy groceries to make up for the imbalance. In addition, not everyone has access or time, for that matter, to cook a good meal.
One thing I've been doing lately, and it seems to be working, is to not deny myself food when I'm hungry. The trick in that is making the right choice. The best thing to do is snack on fruits and vegetables. They satisfy your hunger while providing the correct vitamins and nutrients. They don't leave you feeling heavy and are good for the skin.
Another tip would be to vary the food intake every day. I realize this is probably the hardest thing to do, especially in college, but it helps the body process different foods and you won't feel entirely bored whenever you eat. Take advantage of the salad bar and stock up on green vegetables. Also, vary the type of protein eaten. People often forget that protein isn't only found in meat. You can replace meat with fish, eggs, cheese, nuts, beans and soy. Again, this adds variety to the diet.
Finally, carbs. Anyone who knows me, knows how much I love a good plate of pasta, and those breadsticks basically go with anything. However, the later in the day those carbs are eaten the more likely the body will store them as fats. My suggestion would be to eat those very much loved carbs for breakfast and lunch, so that they can be used as energy instead.
As far as drinks go, drink water. Water is your friend. I understand the appeal of soda; it's tasty and sweet. I'm not saying to give it up entirely but perhaps limit yourself to one glass a day. That is processed sugar that the body would be much better off without. Water instead, acts like a cleanser.
Being healthy and staying healthy is tricky business. The secret is in finding the correct balance for you. We've all heard the expression, "The body is your temple. Keep it pure and clean for the soul to reside in." As cliche as that might sound, it could not be any more true. We only get one chance, so it's best we don't screw it up. As a big food lover, I totally understand how difficult making the right decisions can be, but trust me when I say that it is and will be totally worth it.
