Many students come to university prepared to have fun, study hard, stay up all night and sleep all day. Changes in your normal routine and eating habits and the freedom to indulge in lots of food with the swipe of a meal card can lead to some poor choices. Use these tips to help you make good choices and stay healthy.

Benefits of Eating Healthy

• You will maintain your weight and help avoid the dreaded “Freshman 15”.
• You’ll have more energy for studying, socializing and athletic activities.
• You’ll sleep better.
• You may look fitter and have a healthy glow, which may make you feel better about yourself.
• You may be able to avoid the colds and coughs that can easily spread around campus residences.
• You’ll begin to practice healthy eating habits that will keep you healthy through adulthood.
  
  

Healthy Snack Options

• Whether you’re living in residence or off-campus, keep healthy snacks with you so you’re not tempted to visit the vending machine. Here are some delicious and healthy choices that are also easy to grab as you head out the door.

  • Fresh fruit – store in a plastic container to keep it from getting bruised in your bag
  • Canned fruit in light syrup
  • Dried fruit like apricots, apple rings, and raisins
  • Raw veggies like baby carrots, cherry tomatoes and sliced bell peppers
  • Trail mix
  • Almonds
  • Whole grain crackers with peanut butter
  • String cheese
  • Unbuttered popcorn
  • Low-fat yogurt
  • Pretzels

  Some snacks need to stay cold (like yogurt and cheese). Freeze a water bottle the night before and throw it in your backpack to keep your food cold.