Health Tips for College Students

Whether you were raised in a family that practiced healthy living, or whether you’ve decided now is the time to undertake healthy habits. Going to college brings with it its own unique challenges and beginning healthy habits will help you meet those challenges.

Fitting in healthy habits isn’t hard to do but it will take a bit of planning to make it happen. Here are a few tips to consider carefully.

1. While it may be difficult to keep fresh fruit on hand, you can certainly get your recommended servings of fruits and vegetables while in the cafeteria. Pick up an extra piece of fruit for munching on during the day. Keep individual servings of canned fruits or applesauce in your room – find natural, no sugar added varieties.

2. Get enough sleep. If eight hours simply isn’t possible or feasible – take naps during the day. Getting enough rest will make you more alert and better able to handle daily stresses and workloads.

3. Breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day so make sure you don’t skip it. Sleeping in sounds appealing – until you’re sitting in a classroom and your stomach is rumbling. Also, don’t skimp on, or skip meals. Eat enough and choose healthy options over comfort foods like macaroni and cheese or fried foods. Proteins, beans and whole grains are your best bets – healthy and filling.

4. It’s tempting to hole up in your room with all of the studying you’ll be doing, but make certain you get out for some fresh air and exercise. Take advantage of gym classes, extra curricular sports or the health care facilities at the school.

5. When it comes to beverages, make certain you drink water throughout the day. Most people don’t get enough water, and no, drinking can after can of soda is not a substitute for water. Also, avoid binge drinking – excessive alcohol consumption can lead to dependency or alcohol poisoning.

It’s easy to fall into bad habits when you’re away from home for the first time but living a healthy lifestyle will certainly make your college experience a more enjoyable one.

Robbi Hess is a staff writer for the American Educational Guidance Center, publishers of 5 higher education websites which deal with online degree programs, traditional colleges, and scholarships for online college students.

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