Research shows that college students tend to abandon their healthy eating habits once they are away from home. Many students skip meals and don’t get enough sleep, which can lead to bad results when it comes to nutrition. Eating poorly can lead to poor academic achievement because students don’t have the energy or mental clarity to absorb the content from their classes, which can lead to longer study nights and even worse food cycles. With a little organization and some extra willpower, students can maintain the energy they need from a good diet and avoid the typical weight gain that is associated with the first year or two of school.

Fitting Breakfast In

One of the biggest obstacles to eating healthily in college is skipping breakfast. Sleepy students would rather catch a few more minutes in bed than get up early enough to eat before their first class. It is possible to sleep in and eat something that will stick with you in the mornings, however. Choose portable foods like breakfast sandwiches that you can eat on the way to class. Your body needs the energy boost after your blood sugar levels have dropped overnight.

Stock Healthier Snacks

Many dorm rooms are packed with bags of potato chips and drawers of candy bars. It’s easy to scrape together a few coins and grab something out of the vending machine than to leave the building to find a snack. You can combat these unhealthy eating traps by taking the time to stock your room with healthier alternatives. Instead of buying candy bars, buy breakfast bars or granola snacks. Dried fruit chips or popcorn are better for you than greasy potato chips. Fresh fruit will keep for a week if you store it out of direct sunlight. Keep a good supply of healthy snacks close at hand to help you avoid temptation.

Avoid the Binge Cycle

The dangerous part of skipping meals is that you tend to overeat when you finally have a chance to eat again because you are so hungry. Eating small snacks throughout the day and evening can help you keep your hunger at an even level so that you aren’t ever tempted to plow through two or three servings at one time. Try to eat on a regular schedule as much as possible, and don’t wait too long between meals. Small portable snacks like string cheese can help you get through the day more easily.

Find Time to Exercise

It can be tough to fit exercise into your semester schedule. Think of ways you can get your blood flowing a little bit during your normal routine. Take the stairs instead of the elevator when you are on your way to class. Walk instead of driving whenever possible. If you have a little extra time between classes, you could go for an extra walk or bike ride around campus. Anything that keeps you moving will help burn extra calories and keep you sharp for your classes or homework.

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