7 Essential Strategies for Maintaining Health During College

College can truly be one of the best times of your life, but it’s also when your health might take a hit, both mentally and physically. As a student, it’s easy to develop unhealthy habits since you’re juggling limited cash, a busy social life, intense studying, and not enough sleep.

First, let’s talk about eating well on a budget. Making good choices in the cafeteria can make a huge difference. Load up on fruits and veggies and pick foods that keep you full longer. Always go for a veggie side when you can. Drinking more water than anything else helps balance out those weekend parties. Take this time to try out new foods; you might find a healthy dish you love.

Switch up your snacks, too. Fruit is a fantastic choice to take to class instead of grabbing a candy bar from the vending machine. The key to eating healthy isn’t depriving yourself of your favorite foods, but reducing the unhealthy ones in your diet.

Working out can be easier than you think. Hit the gym in the afternoons between classes so you don’t have to wake up early or miss out on evening plans. Just 20 minutes a few times a week can make a big difference. Bringing a gym kit and a change of clothes with you can help you stick to this plan.

Though fresh fruits can be pricey, finding cheaper staples to include in one meal a day helps maintain your health. Consider making smoothies or snacking on dried fruits. Cafeterias often have healthy options; look for dishes with a good amount of fruits and veggies. Vegetables are packed with fiber, vitamins, minerals, and even some protein.

Aim to fill half your plate with vegetables. Not getting enough can lead to headaches, stomachaches, and missed classes. Incorporating fruits and veggies into your diet boosts concentration and energy levels. Find your favorites and use them in your meals regularly.

Getting eight hours of sleep every night might seem impossible, so take naps during the day. Sleep affects your health and your grades. Being sleep-deprived makes concentrating harder, and you might end up eating more sugary foods to stay awake, leading to potential weight gain and other health issues.

Use online tools and resources to make studying easier and reduce stress. Avoid sodas and energy drinks; they offer no nutritional value. Opt for plain coffee or tea for a boost, and drink water to stay hydrated and keep your energy up.

While a gym membership might be expensive, countless free workout videos on YouTube can help you stay fit. Try out different ones to see what you enjoy, like yoga or aerobics.

Staying healthy in college does take effort, but these tips can help you manage your physical and mental well-being more easily. If you try them out and they work, let us know! Share any other healthy habits you’ve found useful with your fellow students.