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GiphyReal talk - being sick is the worst because medicine tastes nasty, you look nasty, and no one wants to be near your nasty germs, so take care of yourself!
This set from Amazon includes a fork, knife, spoon, straw, and chopsticks made from Bamboo. These utensils are a possible solution to our around 40 billion plastic utensil waste that collectively clutters landfills and natural areas like beaches. Consider this product for other commonly used plastic items like toothbrushes, razors, or water bottles . For this $10 set or other sets like it, we could all do our part to clean up more than just our environment. We could positively impact the habitats of our four legged friends as well.
This is a simple financial compromise. Rather than spending money on multiple cheap containers for food - some of which leave plastic residue in the food that is being eaten - invest in a glass container! This not only protects your food, but also provides less environmental waste in plastics.
While I admit to hoarding plastic bags as much as the next frugal college student, there are better ways to package items. I often use plastic bags to carry food or other items throughout my day. However, by reusing two or three well manufactured bags for groceries and lunches, your use of plastic bags is reduced- duh - while also reducing your trash. Often times, I use these bags are in my bathroom trash cans. But if these bags are not accessible, I will use less of them simply because they are not readily available.
As a vegan, I could push the completely organic option on you readers, but I'm not. I do suggest, however, that this spring your cleaning would include your digestive health not by doing some type of juice cleanse or detox but by making conscious steps everyday towards healthier living. Since becoming vegan, I have experienced more energy and focus throughout my rigorous daily schedule. As a full-time college student with mostly 12-hour days consisting of four dance classes (anywhere from 1.5 to 3 hours) and additional academic classes, I need to feed my body so that I can not just make it through each day but to excel in my activities. This is exactly what organic living has done for me since cutting out my loves - processed food and meat. But the reward is greater.
This spring break reminded me of what relaxation feels like. It reminds me that this season is perfect for starting new goals and igniting creative ideas. But in order to do this, we cannot have our environment, minds, or bodies cluttered with waste and chemicals that are not going to propel us forward. In the words of my professor and world-renowned contemporary ballet choreographer William Forsythe, "Make decisions your future self will thank you for". I will take this one step further and say, "Make decisions future generations will thank you for."
GiphyI have regained so much self confidence now that I am less bloated. I seriously looked pounds heavier, when it was genuinely just severe bloating.
GiphyI enjoy trying different vegetables, fruits, beans, and grains.
GiphyAvoid those GMOs, trans fats, saturated fats, additives, and preservatives. It's nearly impossible to avoid these components, but the more conscious you are of their negative effects on health, the more likely you are to choose natural foods.
GiphyGotta love getting the, "You still go here?" when I am spotted in the cafeteria. It's laughably almost a compliment.
I do NOT miss throwing up from regular milk.
GiphyAvocado oil is low in fat, helps with nutrient absorption, smoother skin, gum health, eased joint pain, stronger hair, and is heart healthy. It contains folate, vitamin C, vitamin B5 and B6, and potassium.
GiphyLovin' myself more and more with the progress I have made. I had gained weight due to the combination of new medications & a traumatic event. I didn't let it stop me.
GiphyI used to have migraines every single day, for at least 4 hours a day. I am so thankful for the relief I have experienced since dietary changes. Had I known how strong the link between diet and migraines are, I would have gone vegetarian far sooner.
GiphyIf you catch yourself saying "what even is this??" when reading a food label, use the Google and/or kindly set the item down.
Ever since I started the program back in January, I have lost 53 pounds overall, and I am still losing to this day! With this program, you not only get to enjoy the foods you love, but you can also get into some new recipes. I encourage you to sign up for Weight Watchers or at least research it.
Just because you are watching what you eat doesn't mean that you should deprive yourself of some good pizza, just don't go overboard! Maybe have two slices then drink tons of water to balance it out. Never deprive yourself of food you love otherwise you might end up binging, which is not for your body or cause.
A little secret is that, depending on where you go to school and your meal plan, you can sneak some fruits from the cafeteria! If you are a community college, you may have to pay for it, but, hey, you're already there so take what you can because fruits make for a delicious and healthy snack later! Talk about a win-win.
One of my favorite recipes to make is mini pizza using English muffins or low-fat pita bread, I have also been using a ton of chicken breast in my recipes, and I am currently working on recipes for alternative versions of processed food. There are many different places to find recipes, like Pinterest boards!
If you know you're going somewhere that doesn't offer the healthiest of options, then bring a little snack that can help hold you over until dinner. This does the trick for me, and it can work for you, too.
One thing you can do with Weight Watchers is tracking what you eat each day, which is a great habit to get into. If you have access to a kitchen, plan out your meals for the week so you know exactly what you will be putting in your body. Meal prep has really helped me out so much, and I am not just eating the first thing I see anymore.
Walk to your classes instead of taking the bus, take the stairs instead of the elevator or just do some exercises in your room. There is always something you can do if you can't afford to go to the gym. Bonus tip: utilize your (usually included) student membership to your college's gym!
Want to eat healthy, but don't have a ton of money to spend? Well, there are grocery stores, like ALDI and Walmart, where you can get many different things for a pretty low price. ALDI, specifically, offers lots of fruits and veggies for you without breaking the bank.
Losing weight on campus is entirely doable. Of course, it requires mental and physical effort, but, if you follow these tips closely, you'll be off to a healthy start!
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