College can be one of the most memorable and enriching experiences of your life, but sometimes your health might slip through the cracks, both mentally and physically.
As a student, maintaining a healthy lifestyle can be challenging. You’re often low on money, constantly socializing, working hard, studying, and juggling all of this on minimal sleep. Sure, you might sometimes think about paying for help with your assignments, and that’s perfectly okay. But there are other steps you can take to stay healthy. Here are seven tips to help you out.
First, making smart choices in the cafeteria can make a big difference, even if you’re on a budget. Fill up on fruits and vegetables, and eat foods that keep you full longer. Whenever you can, add a veggie side to your meals. Drinking lots of water is crucial too, especially to balance out any weekend partying. Be adventurous and try new, healthy foods – you might find something you really enjoy!
When it comes to snacking, opt for healthier choices. Carrying fruit to class is a better option than grabbing a candy bar from the vending machine. The key is not to deprive yourself of treats you love but to limit unhealthy foods.
It’s easier to fit in a workout in the afternoon between classes instead of forcing yourself to wake up early or skipping social events. A 20-minute workout a few times a week can make a big difference. If you manage to do this three times a week, you’ll feel much better and can gradually increase the time or frequency of your workouts. Keep a gym kit and a change of clothes with you during the day so you can head straight to the gym after class without needing to go back to your dorm first.
While fresh fruits can be pricey, finding cost-effective staples for your daily meals can help you maintain your health. Smoothies with your favorite fruits are a convenient option, and so are snack-sized packets of dried fruits. Cafeterias often have healthy choices – look for meals rich in fruits and vegetables. Vegetables are vital as they’re packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Aim to fill half your plate with veggies.
Not getting enough vegetables can leave you prone to illnesses, headaches, and stomachaches, which can disrupt your social life and studies. Good nutrition that includes fruits and veggies has been shown to boost concentration and energy levels. Find your favorite fruits and vegetables and incorporate them into your meals regularly.
Sleep can be tough to come by, but remember, you don’t have to get all eight hours at once. Take naps when you can to catch up on sleep. Lack of sleep can hurt your concentration and make it harder to stay awake in class, often leading to reliance on sugary snacks and drinks, which can have negative health effects like weight gain and diabetes. Prioritize getting sufficient sleep whenever possible.
The internet offers a myriad of tools and resources to make studying easier and help you avoid stress, which can lead to mental health issues. For instance, choose plain coffee or tea over sugary sodas and energy drinks when you need a pick-me-up, or better yet, drink water throughout the day to keep your energy levels steady and stay hydrated.
If a gym membership is too costly, explore free YouTube workout videos that you can do in your dorm room. There’s something for everyone, from yoga to high-energy aerobics. The beauty of these videos is that they are free, and you can try as many as you like to find what works for you.
Staying healthy in college takes some effort, but these tips can help you manage your physical and mental well-being more easily. If you find these tips useful, please share what worked for you and any other habits that have helped keep you healthy!