As a college student, it might seem next to impossible to eat healthy. With the way meal plans are set up, as well as all the great, delicious (and slightly unhealthy) food options right within our grasp, the challenge of staying healthy can be difficult. Without our parents’ wallets to buy us dinner at Café Milano every weekend (ugh Parent’s Weekend come back), in addition to not having the means or abilities to buy organic food, what can we do? Oh and let’s not even talk about losing weight because how is that possible when eating healthy presents so much of a challenge within itself? Well ladies, sometimes the solution to losing that extra weight or eating just a bit healthier is a lot easier than we think.
1.) Drink Water: Water is a natural way to flush out all the bad stuff in your body. Containing zero calories, and very little sodium, it is a much healthier option than a glass of soda or lemonade. Remember not to drink your calories so that you can eat more and sustain your appetite.
2.) Only eat what you can fit on your plate: Ah, yes. Leo’s Dining Hall. So many options, so little time. Although the temptation of getting that extra mac and cheese to go with your homemade taco can be heavy (no pun intended), try to resist the urge! Only eat what you can fit on one plate because, let’s be real, if you need multiple plates for your food why would you want that all in your stomach?
3.) Count the cals: Yes, counting calories can be beneficial…just don’t turn into that girl who goes crazy with calories and diets. Usually you will be able to tell if something is good or bad for you. If you need reassurance, though, check out the calorie count cards above the food in Leo’s or download My Fitness Pal on your iPhone. Through the app you can set personalized goals and discover just how many calories exist in the food you are about to eat. It is a very, very cool app and will remind you that one chocolate chip cookie from Panera Bread is 440 calories (Yes, sadly that is true).
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4.) Do morning abs: Although abs are probably the last thing you want to do when that alarm goes off at 8 am, try a light set of abs to start the day! It will boost your metabolism and help you burn more calories throughout the day. Try a plank for 15 seconds, 30 seconds, or 1 minute depending on your skill level. If planks aren’t for you, lay down on your back bringing your knees to your chest and rotate side to side, engaging your core. Do two to three sets of 25 reps.
5.) Cut out the bread/sodium: By simply cutting out bread from your diet, you will be able to see a huge change in your body. Start out slow. Try to avoid the bun on that hamburger and just eat the meat instead. If you are dying for that pizza, leave the crust. Maybe only put one slice of bread on your sandwich. You will see a difference. Also, cut back on the sodium. Sodium makes you bloated and will prevent the loss of water weight (which runs up those numbers on that dreaded scale). By limiting your sodium intake and eating food loaded with potassium (bananas, almonds, beans etc), you can help your body break down the sodium and lose that bloat.
6.) Stay active: Crazy diets often never work out. By balancing your meals and incorporating exercise, however, you will be able to lose that weight and stay healthy. Walk everywhere. Up stairs, into town, in the city…you would be surprised how much you can burn off by simply walking. In addition, also make it a point to go to Yates 3-4 times a week. The more you work out, the faster your metabolism works at eliminating those carbs. Set goals that on Mondays and Wednesdays you will try out a spin class. On Thursdays you will run to the monuments. Motivate yourself! A little amount of effort can often go a long way.
7.) It is okay to cheat: It is perfectly normal to have that amazing chocolate chip cookie (or two) once in awhile. Just don’t make it a habit. Maybe you can reward yourself after a tough workout and splurge on that fro-yo you have been craving all day. Remember, though…everything in moderation.
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