Healthy Eating in the Dining Halls
Let's face it: it can be hard to eat healthy while in college. Changes in sleep-wake cycles, availability of food options, stress and social situations all contribute to altered eating patterns during the college years.
Here are some general tips on how to eat healthy on campus:
- Don't skip breakfast! Breakfast will help your body wake up and give you the energy and alertness to be alert and present during your daytime activities.
-
To get a balance of vitamins and nutrients, aim for a colorful plate. Try to avoid having an all white or brown plate (e.g., potatoes, rice, pasta, meat, bread). To add color, try adding some fruits and vegetables.
- Make time for meals. College students have notoriously busy schedules, but you need to fuel your body in order to keep up with your classes and commitments. Plan breaks in your daily schedule for meals.
-
Try to eat something every 3-5 hours to keep energy levels up and to control hunger. Plan ahead and carry snacks with you during the day.
-
Listen to your body. Which meals keep you going through busy days, and which leave you with an energy crash in the middle of class? Do certain foods give you an upset stomach? Does eating late at night make it harder to sleep? Your body is wise; pay attention to what it's telling you and let it guide your decision-making.
You can find more information, including dining hall menus, nutritional content, healthy eating tips, and hours of operation on the Dining Services website.