If you have a meal plan through the school, visit the salad bar before you go for other options. This way you provide your body with nutrition and are less likely to eat unhealthy foods on a whim if you already have something in your stomach. If you are still hungry after you eat the salad, consider options such as stir fried vegetables and rice over greasy pizza. Keep your basic nutrition principles in mind when making choices. Your diet should consist of meals that are primarily vegetables, lean meats, and non-processed carbohydrates, such as whole grain rice. Eat foods high in protein and fiber and low in fat.
As you are sure to have a fast-paced lifestyle between school, work, and a social life, pack snacks. Bring fruit and granola bars that are low in sugar and high in protein, and unsalted nuts in your book bag. Buy these healthier snacks in bulk to cut costs, as most college students are on a budget. Carry healthy snacks throughout the day so you don't find yourself starving and in search of the nearest vending machine. Vending machines are likely to contain a wide variety of unhealthy snacks that give your body an initial boost, followed by an extreme crash. Limit your intake of caffeine, alcohol, processed sugars, fried foods, and those with high salt content.
Balance your meals. If you eat a lunch high in complex carbohydrates, eat a dinner that hosts plenty of vegetables and protein. It's okay to indulge in one meal, as long as you even out our intake with the next. Problems arise when you constantly eat meals high in fat or complex carbohydrates, as these substances pack on the pounds without providing you with any additional energy. Avoid ordering food late at night. It's easy to be tempted with pizza and burgers after or during a nighttime study session.
Try new foods. Use college as an opportunity to try new foods you never considered before. Look into ethinic cuisine you may have overlooked or had few opportunities to try. A wide variety of protein and vegetable sources are not included in many Americanized dishes. Try vegetables such as water chestnut, leeks, or bok choy. Substitute animal protein for soy protein, such as tofu or tempeh, to try new flavors and textures.
Don't deprive yourself of your favorite foods. Indulge every now and then, so you don't binge when given the opportunity. Remember portions and self control when you consume unhealthy foods. However, if you are on a budget, purchase healthy foods such as peanut butter, brown rice, frozen vegetables, and low-fat soups. These items are inexpensive and won't spoil as quickly as fresh foods and meat products.