By Mary Usufzy
As Virginia Woolf once said, “One cannot think well, love well, sleep well, if one has
not dined well.” Food is essential to our physical and mental health. But as college students, we
tend to get caught up in our fast paced lives and neglect the nourishment our bodies deserve.
That’s what leads to eating ramen, Cheetos or soda for a meal during midterms and finals week.
However, it only leads to your body weakening and deteriorating with the lack of proper
nutrients. Luckily, you need not fear that if you prioritize healthy eating and take the time to
prepare meals. It’s difficult to keep on track, given the amount of responsibility that it requires.
Here’s a list to keep your meal plans healthy and full of energy.
❖ Idea #1: Fast food is your frenemy
We’ve all heard the dangers of fast food and unfortunately, there’s plenty of options on
campus, like El Pollo Loco and Carl’s Jr. However, if you limit your portions and choose your
meals carefully, there’s definitely healthy options. Also, the cheapest options can also be healthy,
such as with Subway’s deals. If you do your research carefully, then eating nutritious meals will
become a no-brainer.
❖ Idea #2: Smoothies and shakes are your friends
One should never substitute smoothies or protein shakes for a meal. However, for a quick
snack to boost your energy, a fruit smoothie could be a great idea. Check out great recipes online
that combine your favorite fruits and veggies into a delicious drink, instead of buying a shake
from the store. Moreover, the sweetness of apples and bananas could mask the bitter taste of
unattractive vegetables, so this is a great way to get your daily vegetable intake too!
❖ Idea #3: Bring food from home
Commuters might find it particularly difficult to eat healthy, because there’s no meal
plans awaiting them in the dining halls at the end of the day. In addition, with so many options to
choose from and so little time to dwell, one never has time to weigh the merits of healthy vs.
cheap food. However, there’s a simple solution that requires a little planning ahead and that is to
bring lunch from home. If you wake up a half hour earlier each day or prepare your lunch the
night before, then it saves money and time from deciding on lunch. It also decreases the chance
of impulse purchases, for you know that you have food waiting in your backpack. Overall, it’s a
great decision to make and with the time dedicated to thinking over lunch, it gives ample
opportunity to choose healthier options.
❖ Idea #4: Count calories
Many hate counting calories, but as I have learned in the past month, it really does
wonders for your mental and physical health. It doesn’t have to meticulous, but rather, an
estimation for each meal. Even being aware of the calories in the food you eat will allow you to
be healthier.
❖ Idea #5: Be happy with your choices
Above all, be happy with the food you eat. Healthy foods shouldn’t be a pain to eat,
but enjoyable, and presentation is key. Making your own food and being aware of the nutrients
that you consume will lead to positive changes for your mind and body. Thus, there are cheap
and healthy ways to eat at CSULB and it takes dedication to keep yourself on tra
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