Nutrition and diet play a crucial role in the physical and mental well-being of students. Here are some tips to help you maintain a healthy diet throughout your student life.
Eat a Balanced Diet
A balanced diet helps students get all the essential nutrients required for good health, such as carbohydrates, proteins, fats, vitamins, and minerals. Students may find it challenging to maintain a balanced diet due to a lack of time or budget constraints. Students can take advantage of school or college cafeteria offerings, which may include healthy meal options. The availability of unhealthy fast food options can make it difficult for students to choose healthy meal options. Students should make a conscious effort to include a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins in their meals. They should also limit their intake of processed foods and sugary drinks.
Eat a variety of Foods
It is essential to consume a balanced diet that includes a variety of foods from different food groups, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Each food brings with it, its own benefits and by eating a good variety of food, you can ensure that you get all types of minerals & nutrients.
Consume Adequate Protein
Protein is important for building and repairing tissues in the body. Include sources of lean protein such as Chicken, Fish, Eggs, Milk, and Peanut in your diet. For vegetarians, dairy products like Paneer (Cottage cheese), Milk, pulses like green peas, and other foods like peanut/peanut butter, almonds, etc. are great sources of protein.
Stay Hydrated
Staying hydrated helps improve cognitive function, physical performance, and overall well-being. Drinking enough water is essential for maintaining good health. Students may forget to drink enough water due to busy schedules or lack of access to clean drinking water. Students can carry a water bottle with them or take advantage of water fountains on campus. Students should aim to drink at least 6-8 cups of water[2] per day and limit their intake of sugary drinks.
Snack Smartly
Healthy snacking can provide students with energy and nutrients to sustain their academic and extracurricular activities. Students may be tempted to snack on unhealthy options due to convenience or lack of healthy snack choices. Students can take advantage of breakfast options at home, school, or college. Students can pack healthy snacks, such as fruits, nuts, and seeds, to bring with them to school or college. The availability of vending machines and fast food options on campus can make it challenging for students to choose healthy snack options. Students should make a conscious effort to eat a balanced breakfast that includes protein, whole grains, and fruits or vegetables. Students should plan ahead and pack healthy snacks to avoid unhealthy temptations.
Avoid skipping Meals
Skipping meals can lead to overeating later in the day and can cause blood sugar imbalances. Eat regular meals and snacks throughout the day to keep your energy levels stable. Students may skip breakfast due to a lack of time or appetite in the morning. Eating breakfast can provide students with the energy and nutrients they need to start their day on the right foot. The availability of sugary cereals and breakfast pastries can make it challenging for students to choose healthy breakfast options. Students should make a conscious effort to eat a balanced breakfast that includes protein, whole grains, and fruits or vegetables. Meal planning and preparing meals in advance can help you make healthier choices and avoid unhealthy options when in a rush or on the go.
Limit processed and Junk Food
These foods are often high in calories, sugar, and unhealthy fats. They can also lead to inflammation and other health problems. Examples of junk food include fast food like burgers, cold aerated drinks, packaged foods, etc.
Do treat yourself to junk food once in a while, but try to keep the frequency low. Remember, junk food might be enjoyable, but provide little nutritional value and more health issues. Thus, you should consume junk & processed foods only once in a while. Also, consuming such foods only once in a while, actually makes it more enjoyable and less addictive.
Practice mindful eating
Pay attention to your hunger and fullness cues and take the time to savour and enjoy your meals. Avoid eating while distracted by electronic devices or other activities. Practising portion control can help students maintain a healthy weight and prevent overeating. Students may struggle with portion control due to large serving sizes or social pressure to eat more. Students can use smaller plates and bowls or ask for half portions when eating out. The availability of unlimited food options at buffets or parties can make it challenging for students to practice portion control. Students should aim to eat slowly and mindfully, savouring each bite and stopping when they feel full.
Get enough sleep
Getting enough sleep is important for overall health, including maintaining a healthy weight and reducing stress levels. Aim for 8-10 hours of sleep[3] per night.
Read more: How to get enough Sleep as a Student [coming soon]
Stay active
Regular physical activity is important for maintaining good health and can help reduce stress levels. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week.
Read more: How to get enough exercise as a Student [coming soon]
Seek professional help if needed
If you have specific nutrition concerns or a medical condition that requires a special diet, consult with a registered dietitian or other healthcare professionals for personalized advice.
In conclusion, students should prioritize a healthy diet and nutrition to support their academic and extracurricular activities. By making conscious food choices and planning, students can ensure they get the nutrients they need to thrive.
References:
[1] High Protein Foods to Include in Your Daily Diet – HealthifyMe
[2] How Much Water Should I Drink Daily? – WebMd
[3] Sleep in Middle and High School Students – Centers for Disease Control & Prevention
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