Staying Healthy in College on a Budget

By Jared Hart

Everyone has heard of the freshman 15! Going to off college is a difficult time and many times this can lead to poor food choices along with little to no exercise. Vending machines filled with junk food can be a quick option if you are in hurry, but it can be expensive and unhealthy. Planning ahead of time and making a grocery list is key when it comes to make proper food choices. College students are on a tight budget, but this doesn’t mean they can’t make healthy choices that will keep them focused and have energy throughout the day.

Here are some strategies that all college students can use, while not breaking the bank:

1. Get enough sleep – This can’t be stressed more, but getting enough sleep every night is important to keep you alert and focused throughout the day. Nobody wants to walk around half-dead all day and have little to no energy to do assignments or attend class. College students should look to get as much sleep as possible; having a daily sleeping routine can be an excellent tool to use
2. Make a grocery list and stick to it – Creating a shopping list can be useful and help steer you away from buying junk food and items that you don’t need; stock up on inexpensive food items such as rice, beans and potatoes which are rich in nutrients and fill you up
3. Cook for yourself – Cooking your food and knowing what ingredients you are putting in a great way to save money and keep you healthy; cook a large amount and freeze the rest to consume later
4. Check out your campus gym and/or play a sport you enjoy – Most college campus gyms are free to students, so there should be no excuse for not taking advantage of them; there are also many sports clubs and intramural sports to choose from that not only keep you fit and healthy, but allow you to interact and meet new people
5. Make healthy choices on campus – while those fries might be tempting, buying a salad with fresh fruits, veggies and protein of choice is a better choice; other good options include a veggie burger instead of a hamburger. At the University Florida and other colleges around the U.S., there is an all you can eat vegetarian/vegan lunch buffet called Krishna lunch that is offered on campus during lunchtime serving healthy food for only $5 a lunch.

Take these strategies in mind and you will sure be on your way to feeling healthy and focused during your college years and beyond.

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