As much as you want to avoid it, you can’t.
It’s not going anywhere. We’re talking about the rows of temptation that make up the infamous college cafeteria. Now couple that with the stresses of academics, and before you know it, you have a diet disaster on your hand.
Everyone knows how hard it is to eat healthy during your college years. But fret not. Pink & Black has got you covered. Here are a few tips for eating healthy in the dining hall:
Plan Ahead
Try to make it to the dining hall before you become too hungry. Just seeing all the delicious but fattening options on an empty stomach will make it that much harder to pass up. You’ll grab on impulse rather than on a well-planned-out thought. So, plan ahead. Know what you want to eat beforehand and go straight for it and bypass all that grease. This will also help you avoid overeating.
Out of sight, Out of Mind, Out of Mouth
Don’t even look at the pastries. If you can keep your eyes from seeing it, the battle is half won. If you’re a freshman and it’s your first time at the dining hall (assuming you missed the freshman tour), stand just outside the entrance and stake out the place. Sure you might get a few weird stares, but there’s a method to your madness. You’re close enough to view where everything’s at but far enough away to miss the decadent details of those cupcakes.
Just Go There to Eat
This may sound obvious, but many students mistakenly set up shop at a table and study while eating.
Although this may seem like good time management, it’s definitely not healthy because you’re not conscious of the amount of food you’re eating.Also, if you’re studying for 2 to 3 hours, chances are you’ll be snacking for those same 2 to 3 hours. You can trust yourself to choose healthy snacks during study time, but oftentimes fatty foods can be very calming. For some people, food can temporarily alleviate stress, especially the types that come along with college study. So, for study dates, hit the library instead. To catch up on the latest school gossip, why not kill two birds with one stone and hit your campus’ gym with a friend?
Eat the Rainbow
Choose a red delicious apple instead of a candy bar. The scale will thank you later. Instead of a bagel or muffin, grab from the tray of green and orange veggies—aka celery and carrots. Use dip sparingly.
You Are What You Eat
Knowing what you’re putting into your body can go a long way to creating healthy habits. Read the labels on your food. Take a look at the ingredients. As a rule of thumb, the fewer the ingredients, the closer the food is to its natural form. Try to avoid prepackaged foods as much as you can.
When you’re in a rush, grab some nuts. Almonds and walnuts are rich in fiber and will leave you feeling satiated. Also, be sure to pick up a refreshing bottle of cold water. Soda and high-sugary drinks are a no-no.
Eat healthier, be healthier and feel healthier.
Just Say No!
Foods and drinks that are high in sugar and low in nutritional value will typically give you a crash and burn effect—not a desirable effect, especially before a long class. Although it’s no easy feat to say “no” to those warm and sweet donuts, remind yourself of the advantages of making healthy food choices right now. You’ll have efficient fuel to keep you focused throughout your day and long-lasting energy for those late nights of studying.
The benefits of making good, solid choices by eating right in college are immediate. When you’re eating healthy, well-balanced meals—lots of fruits and vegetables, lean meats and whole grains—you can expect a well balanced you. You’ll have more energy and just feel better overall. Granted, the meal choices you’re faced with everyday in the dining hall may not be what you’re used to at your family’s dinner table, but there are some acceptable options. If you are aware of them, the next four years should be a piece of cake!
(Feature Photo via Dormify)