I like to think I'm a pretty healthy person.
As the daughter of two self-proclaimed "aging hippies," who are also a surgeon and an ex-model, health and wellness have been integral parts of my upbringing. I ate well, was taught how to make healthy choices from a young age, and played sports all through high school. If nurture wasn't the reason why I'd turn down fast food for a spinach smoothie, then nature certainly was. I loved going to yoga class on Sunday mornings. I felt my best after a breakfast of overnight oats with blueberries and hemp seeds.
Once I committed to college, I knew that my wellness choices were about to be in my hands, and mine alone. I wanted to sustain my healthy lifestyle of consistent workouts and wholesome foods, but more than that, and was sure that with my habits, the "freshman 15" wouldn't be a problem.
I like to think I'm a pretty healthy person. Or at least, I was.
Between taking 17 credit hours, participating in two student media outlets and maintaining a social life, I didn't didn't have as much time to devote to my meals as I used to. Two years ago, a typical lunch would have been celery sticks with peanut butter, organic cheddar crackers, and sliced peaches. Now a typical meal consists of whatever they're serving at the dining hall, and I do mean whatever they're serving.
The dining halls are typically divided into three sections: a salad bar, homestyle food, or vegan or international options. There are typically several fruit and vegetable options, along with pizza, pasta, and a full spread of desserts at nearly every meal. I'll usually go for a salad or avocado toast for lunch, but at the end of a long day, sometime's that mac 'n cheese looks too good to pass up. Or the garlic bread. Or a cookie. But if I eat a side of broccoli with my alfredo, does that make it healthy?
Some vegetables, whole grains, or proteins are always better than none at all. However, it's important for all of us dining hall regulars to remember that good food doesn't necessarily cancel out the bad. I've been trying to stick to whole and added-sugar free foods lately, and it's made a world of difference for my energy and focus levels.
If you are in a rush, throw together a salad rather than wait in line for the fried chicken. Craving something sweet? Opt for a granola bar over a brownie, and leave it at that. Simple substitutions, like choosing brown over white rice, or tofu tacos over a beef burger, will nourish your body and mind to get you through the day.
There's nothing wrong with eating that mac 'n cheese with a side of broccoli on a tough day, but celebrate the good days with only good foods. I promise your body will thank you.
