It is well-known that good health can be achieved by eating healthy foods, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep. It cannot be easy to do this while at college. When you’re with friends or dealing with stress from school, sweets, fast food, and caffeine can often outweigh healthier options. These are some ways to stay healthy while attending college.

Nutrition

It would be best if you ate a wide variety of nutrients. 

There are many sources for these nutrients. It would be best if you ate various healthy carbs, proteins, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products in your daily food choices. Visit mypyramid.gov to see the USDA’s food guide.

Keep portions moderate. It is easier to eat what your heart desires and maintain a healthy, balanced diet. What is a moderate amount? One serving is a medium-sized piece. One cup of pasta is equivalent to two servings, and one pint of ice cream contains four servings.

DON’T SKIP MEALS. Overeating and out-of-control hunger can result in skipping meals. Snacking between meals can be a good option if you’re short on time. Make sure to have at least two balanced meals.

Do not eliminate certain foods. Our bodies need diverse nutrition. Unless instructed by a doctor, it is a bad idea to cut out all salt, fat and sugar. You can maintain a balanced diet by choosing healthier options like low-fat or skim milk.

Foods can be good or bad. It all comes down to portion control.

Get water! Avoid sugary sodas like cokes, containing as many as 17 teaspoons per 20 oz. Drink. Sugar can cause empty calories and deplete your body with important vitamins. Water is important for hydration, blood circulation, elimination of toxins, and body temperature regulation.

Limit your intake of caffeine. Caffeine can cause insomnia and affect the ability to focus. It can also affect muscle function and the elimination of waste products.

Exercise and stress management

Be active

• Instead of using the elevator, use the stairs.
• Every day, get at least 30 minutes of exercise. If you don’t like the idea of spending hours at the gym, go outside and play ultimate Frisbee. You can also go for a walk or run. It doesn’t matter how fast you move!

Relax

• To eliminate stress and avoid unnecessary ones, organize your life.
• Turn off the TV, and listen to your favorite music.
• Even if you only have 15 minutes each day, make time for relaxation and reflection.
• Sleep well.
• Before you go to bed at night, allow at least 30 minutes for quiet relaxation. Reading.
• Avoid the temptation to take sleeping pills when you are under stress from writing papers or studying.
• It is important to sleep. It is as essential as exercise and nutrition.

Social health

Meet people and get involved in social activities. 

It can be hard to adjust to college, especially when you are leaving behind a support system that has been there for them all their lives. Participating in a team, in Rhodes Student Government, in a religious organization, volunteering at a soup kitchen, or any other way that helps others is a good idea. Find something that interests you and have fun doing it.