1. Eat Right
Eating a healthy diet is essential to help students to maintain a healthy weight and can improve their overall health.
You should always eat breakfast. This may be difficult when you’re rushing out the door to get to that 8 a.m. classes, but grabbing a granola bar or banana goes a long way. You always have time to grab a healthy salad or sandwich from the dining hall. For those late-night cravings during all-nighters, try healthier alternatives to your favourite late-night foods.
For example, look at all your options and get the healthiest of what’s there. Snacking can also be a great way to keep your appetite in check throughout the day. Snacking can stop “mindless eaters” and those who eat for comfort. Keep things like pre-cut vegetables and fruit, nuts, pita bread or string cheese on hand so you aren’t tempted to buy unhealthy snacks. If nothing else, keep these three things in mind when choosing foods: moderation, variety and balance. Try keeping a good balance of dairy, whole grains, fruits, vegetables and protein every day.
2. Exercise
Most college campuses make it easy for students to get exercise. One of the easiest ways to get exercise is walking to class. Depending on your class schedule, this could add anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour of exercise every day and that adds up. Most colleges offer physical fitness classes and these are a fun way to get exercise. Also, most colleges offer free or reduced memberships to gyms. This is definitely a perk, so take advantage of this now.
Though you may want to pull an all-nighter to study for an exam or go out with friends, make sure you don’t make that a habit. Sleep deprivation can lead to reduced brain function, fatigue, headaches and weight loss or gain and that is serious. College students need at least seven hours of sleep and getting this amount can improve overall health. To stay rested throughout the day, take a short nap during the day, stick to a schedule, keep your room dark and quiet before bedtime and avoid drinking caffeine, eating, and drinking right before bed.
4. Wash your hands
With flu season, washing your hands is essential for college students who can’t afford to miss class because of the flu. College students are always in close contact with others and it is very easy to catch colds or viruses. Studies have shown that simple hand-washing can help prevent a large number of illnesses. Wash your hands before eating, any time you will be touching your face, or if you’ve been around others who are sick.
7. Get a flu shot
This is one of the easiest ways to avoid the flu and stay healthy through the winter. Many colleges offer flu shots and screenings for reduced prices, usually under $25. Though it may still be expensive for those on a tight budget, getting a shot now will be much better and cheaper in the long run than getting the flu later.
9. Relax
College students are usually pretty stressed, but relaxing and having down-time is essential to staying healthy. Stress can cause numerous problems. The easiest way to relax is to create a routine and give yourself regular breaks. Also, make sure you make time to hang out with friends and de-stress by reading a book, watching your favorite television show or picking up a hobby.
