College is an exciting time of personal growth for many, but it also comes with unique challenges. Many students struggle to balance school demands while caring for their health, especially when it is their first time away from home and they are not used to managing all these things on their own. However, this does not mean all college students will quit exercising and eat nothing but ramen, soda, and ice cream. It is actually quite possible to stay healthy in school when students follow these easy tips.
Skip the Junk Food
An occasional treat now and then is fine, but students should be cautious about living on nothing but processed junk food and snacks. Whenever possible, students should aim for less-processed items like lean proteins, whole grains, fruits, and vegetables. Those who find that their weight is unexpectedly dropping or rising may want to consider calorie counting, which can help them make sure they are getting healthy portion sizes.
Get Moving
Spending all day on the couch or at a desk can make students feel sluggish and out of shape. Aiming for just 20 to 30 minutes of exercise a day can make a huge difference. For some, this exercise might be as simple as walking to classes or playing a game with friends. Others may want to consider visiting their school gym or doing at-home bodyweight exercises in the comfort of their room.
Prioritize Sleep
Late nights spent studying and hanging out with friends are often romanticized in college, but they can take a massive toll on physical and emotional health. College students should be getting at least eight hours of sleep each night. Though it can be tough to find the time, skimping out on sleep is not worth it. Students will find they study better and have more energy for socializing when they are well-rested.
Avoid Harmful Habits
Many students see things like vaping or drinking excessively as a harmless vice common among many college students. However, these little bad habits can drastically affect health in the long run. Students should avoid tobacco products, excessive caffeine consumption, or binge drinking if they want to stay healthy.