Eating healthily on a university campus can be challenging, with fast-food restaurants and vending machines tempting students at every corner. However, making nutritious choices is vital for maintaining energy levels and supporting academic performance. As a student, understanding how to eat well on campus is essential for overall well-being.
Don't skip breakfast
Start your day right by seeking out balanced breakfast options in the campus dining hall or nearby eateries. Look for whole grain cereals, fresh fruit, and yogurt to kickstart your morning with a mix of carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Avoid sugary pastries or high-fat breakfast sandwiches, as these can leave you feeling sluggish later on.
Fuel up
When it comes to lunch and dinner, opt for colorful salads, lean proteins, and whole grains. Many campus dining facilities offer made-to-order options where you can customize your meal with plenty of veggies and grilled proteins. Choose water or unsweetened beverages instead of sugary sodas, and be mindful of portion sizes to prevent overeating.
Snack Smart
Snacking can also be a pitfall for many students, especially during late-night study sessions. Keep healthy snacks like nuts, seeds, and fruit on hand to curb hunger between meals. If you do need a late-night snack, reach for air-popped popcorn or whole grain crackers with hummus instead of greasy chips or candy.
Quench Yourself
Staying hydrated is crucial for overall health, so be sure to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Carry a reusable water bottle with you to stay hydrated while reducing waste from disposable plastic bottles.
Be Aware
Engage with campus resources and organizations that promote healthy eating and sustainable food practices. Consider joining a student-led food advocacy group or attending cooking classes offered on campus to learn new recipes and culinary skills. By making conscious choices and prioritizing your health, you can set yourself up for success both academically and personally.
The Campus Food Strategy Group (CFSG) represents YOU when in meetings with stakeholders in ensuring that all students on the Fort Garry Campus had equitable access to not just food, but food that is healthy, nourishing and sustainable. In the past, CFSG has partnered with the Dietitians of Canada student representatives to give away free meal boxes for Nutrition Month (March) since its conception in 2020. Additionally CFSG executives meet with Dining Services, the Sustainability Office to ensure that student concerns on the food being offered on campus is sufficient. In addition, the CFSG cares for the Permaculture Garden behind the Agriculture building with fresh fruits and vegetables available to pick.
The Nutrition Education & Community Outreach (NECO) provides nutrition education for the campus and surrounding community. In previous terms, NECO has participated in monthly breakfast clubs, providing students with a warm, nourishing breakfast to fuel them through the day. Additionally, NECO has the Nutrition Education Library (416 Human Ecology) where students can visit and borrow cookbooks, information pamphlets or talk to a nutrition student on what their concerns on healthy eating.
Lastly the University of Manitoba food bank is open to all students registered in the term (full- and part-time). Students can access the food bank once every four weeks and can take a plethora of canned, dry goods, and hygiene products.
Remember, small changes in your eating habits can have a big impact on your overall well-being. So next time you're on campus, choose nutritious meals that nourish your body and support your academic journey.
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