You have the freedom to eat whatever you want. Be healthy and fit. Make choices that support optimal physical and mental health. Here are some proven strategies:
- Eat a nourishing breakfast
- Want good grades? Studies show that skipping breakfast detracts from scholastic achievement.
- Visit the salad bar
- Leafy greens, raw vegetables, and fresh fruits are beneficial. But choosing creamy dressings, bacon bits, and mayonnaise-based salads means the calories and fat can equal or even exceed the counts in a burger and fries. Watch portions, and check out our oil and vinegar and fat-free dressings.
- Drink water
- Your body needs at least eight glasses a day, and, if you exercise vigorously, you may need more. You're welcome to fill your water bottle before you leave the dining hall.
- Add variety, and simple foods
- Switch it up by trying a vegetarian meal. Or include a green salad. Try fruit for dessert.
- Listen to your body
- You can learn to eat until you're full—not stuffed, but full enough that you aren't hungry again in an hour.
- Experience new foods and flavors
- Fridays at the North Coast Grill and Deli in the Memorial Union check out Khana Khazana, ethnic dishes cooked by your fellow classmates from around the world.
- Establish a routine that works for you
- Make time to eat three meals a day and find healthy snacks you can carry with you.
- Avoid the all-nighter jitters
- Whether in coffee or soft drinks, large quantities of caffeine aren't healthy. Period. Fuel up with lean proteins, fruits, and veggies for your study session instead.
- Stay active
- Find an activity. There are a lot of options, from PE classes to intramural sports, or a membership at a gym on or off campus. Find find a friend to go walking, hiking, biking, snowshoeing, or skiing. You'll maintain mental focus as well as physical wellbeing.