Cuestonian

Issue date: 5/5/10 Section: News

Kendra Scharnell shops for cheap, healthy (and tasty) food at Trader Joe's.

Eating healthy for the stressed and poor college students may seem intimidating, but it doesn't have to be.

When students get their first taste of freedom they go for the fatty, sweet comfort foods, which are not necessarily the best choice.

"I come from a family of healthy eaters; my mom has always kept the house stocked with fresh fruits and vegetables. Now that I live on my own it's hard to keep up that lifestyle due to expenses. I shop religiously at Trader Joe's now because they have lots of healthy eats that I like in bulk and it's cheaper than Albertsons," said Kendra Scharnell, 21, Cuesta student.

Bad calories have become the primary energy source for the increasingly demanding student lifestyle.

"Fast food was easier to get than shopping for balanced meals and cooking, I can't ever find extra time to cook a healthy meal. My first two years of college I ate worse than I ever have," Blaine Jones, 21, Cuesta student said.

Based on Cuesta's health courses, here are some healthy eating tips and exercises.

Five healthy eating tips:

• Make time for three meals per day, plus snacks. This will give you energy that will last all day and keep your metabolism active. Pack healthy snacks such as fruit or a granola bar when you're on the go.

• Eat healthy meals that contain foods from at least three food groups and be sure to eat different combinations of grains, fruits, vegetables, protein, dairy, and healthy fats throughout the day.

• Don't forget dairy! Your bones still need calcium to stay strong. Dairy foods and alternatives such as soy milk provide protein and vitamin D, as well as calcium.

• Stay hydrated. Drink water even if you are not thirsty.

• Choose appropriate portions food. Portions in restaurants are often more than one serving size and they're getting bigger.

Five ways to keep fit:

• Walk or bike to class. Be active on the way to class instead of taking the bus or car.

• Join an intramural sport! This is a fun way to meet people and get some exercise, too.

• Go for a walk with friends; stay fit and catch up with friends, and make new ones, at the same time.

• Take a fitness class, stay fit and earn credit.

• Check out the weight room and free swim at Cuesta.

Page 1 of 1

Article Tools