Do you live on campus and have a hard time budgeting for and finding foods that will give you proper nutrition? Are you tired of relying on takeout and fast food? If yes, then this is the article for you.
During our university years, we have many expenses to take on including tuition, books, commuting, leisure time, and even our bills. Studying and being involved in school takes up a majority of our time and we may resort to fast food for convenience and end up spending even more money.
It can get overwhelming, and unhealthy eating habits could have an effect on your sleep, how you function at school and your motivation levels. When you have healthy eating habits, not only do you save more money by relying on at-home meals, but you are also caring for your body.
There are many ways to eat healthy and improve your performance in different aspects. It requires consistency and understanding how important it is for you. When you get on the right path, you can help all your friends as well.
The first step I take is planning my meals. At the end of every week, I allocate some time to plan my meals and snacks for the following week, which I can cook and keep in the fridge. I create a shopping list based on what I planned to avoid impulsive purchases. This way, I will have an idea of what I’m eating every week.
I also like creating a weekly menu outlining my meals for the week, considering breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. This way, I can ensure that a variety of foods, including different protein sources, vegetables, fruits, and whole grains are included in my intake. This also helps maintain my nutritional balance and I can aim for a balanced distribution of macronutrients (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats) in each meal. I include a colourful mix of fruits and vegetables for a range of vitamins and minerals.
Prepping ingredients in advance makes cooking much easier. It is better to cook large portions/quantities of staple items that can be used in multiple meals.
Stocking up on healthy foods is a foundational step in maintaining a balanced and nutritious diet. Having a well-stocked refrigerator and freezer with essential ingredients makes it easier to prepare healthy meals. Some examples include whole grains, legumes, herbs and spices, fresh produce and protein sources.
I plan for regular, balanced meals and avoid skipping meals, which can lead to unhealthy snacking throughout the day. Having balanced meals can help save money by reducing food waste and preventing unnecessary purchases. While you’re busy on campus and already have a lot to worry about, it reduces stress related to mealtime decisions, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your daily routine.
A lot of campuses also have options for food banks where you can get fruits and vegetables for free rather than turning to fast food. Turning to your food bank is a great way to ensure that you will have a variety of options with different products. Check out grocery stores, markets, or discount stores for more affordable produce and pantry staples on campus or near the area. You can meal plan, cook at home, choose budget friendly proteins, pack your lunch and limit eating out.
Alongside eating healthy, it’s important to drink water! I make sure I carry a reusable water bottle and refill it at water fountains throughout the day to avoid the cost of purchasing bottled beverages. And of course, to stay hydrated.
Eating healthy provides many benefits and alongside saving money, your health is the biggest priority. A balanced and nutritious diet provides the energy and nutrients necessary for optimal cognitive function. Proper nutrition can support concentration, memory and overall mental alertness, contributing to better academic performance.
Nutritious foods help support a strong immune system, reducing the risk of illness. Regular exposure to new people and environments on campus can increase the likelihood of getting sick, making immune health crucial.
University is a time when habits are formed, and establishing healthy eating habits at this stage can positively impact your future. Saving money, eating healthy and making the right decisions can help you establish long-term goals. Learning to make nutritious food choices now can contribute to a healthier lifestyle in the long term.