For anyone that knows me, they know how I’m a little bit of a health nut. I try eating as healthy as I can at college, and I usually do pretty well at keeping up a relationship with the gym. While scrolling through my Instagram feed yesterday and seeing the many MANY health food tricks and treats, I decided to take a week to cut out sugary, salty, fatty foods that revolve around my schedule. I also went a step further and reduced my meat intake a little, getting a feel for the vegetarian lifestyle. After the week, I saw some pretty neat results overall, and in places I didn’t expect. Below I have listed the overall effects of eating low carbs, healthy proteins, fruits, vegetables, and reduced sugar snacks for 7 days’ straight
1. My Skin
One result that I did expect was a change in my skin. I would say my skin is clear, with a few pimples here and there, but it is definitely on the oilier side. After a week, I noticed my skin was nicer looking, and less oily. It had a smooth complexion and looked refreshed and glowy. I also didn’t break out once which was great! A tip for my ladies out there while I’m on the skin topic: hormones in dairy may cause you to break out more, so try limiting your dairy intake!
2. My Sleep
I was actually surprised to find that I slept WAY better when I ate foods that benefited my body and health. I usually struggle with sleep, and barely make it through 7 hours without getting up and tossing and turning. But this week, more towards the end, I was sleeping through the whole night and had no trouble getting up. I slept a full 7-8 hours and felt great in the mornings. Would recommend for my insomniac people (not saying this is a cure!)
3. Energy
My overall energy skyrocketed and I felt renewed! I had a lot more energy then I usually do, especially in the mornings for my awful 8 am. I was more driven to do things, and always had an urge to move around instead of staying in my room. I thought this was great because I did not drink as much coffee as I usually do since there was really no need. Throughout the week I felt wide eyed and bushy tailed
4. My Body
After a week of eating really healthy, I found that my body digested things easier and I was less bloated. Sometimes I suffer from bad stomach cramps if I digest something that wasn’t great for me, but I found myself in 0 pain the whole week. I was only bloated an hour after eating, and I felt good as new throughout the day. Throughout the week, I mainly ate fruits and oatmeal, whole wheat sandwiches, protein/smoothie shakes, protein and veggie dense meals and low carb-low sugar snacks. I thought this food plan benefited my body, and my digestive system. I also kept track of my calories, which helps a lot if you are trying to eat better!
5. Concentration
The last thing I saw an improvement in was my concentration. I sometimes struggle with concentrating, especially in classes that are really long with professors that are monotone. I found that my concentration overall improved, and I found it easier to pay attention in class and while doing my work. With my energy up, my concentration boosted and I was able to get things done a lot quicker than usual. I could focus for a longer period of time as well which has benefited my grades tremendously. This is one area from healthy eating that I really appreciated the results