Tips For Staying Happy and Healthy in College

March 18, 2015

College is a multi-year period of near-constant transition. With each new semester or new year, you encounter new discoveries and experiences, and rarely do you have time to develop a routine schedule. College days can be hectic and stressful, and as a result, you may start to neglect your health. The following tips are meant to help you maintain your well-being as you navigate the complex maze that is university life.

Maintain a Balanced Diet

Many students lose sight of their caloric intake when they first begin college. Keep track of how much you eat throughout the day, and reduce your portion sizes if you find yourself gaining weight. In addition to eating in moderation, you should also pay attention to the nutritional value of the food you eat. Try to avoid having an endless supply of junk food at your fingertips. Stock your snack supply with fruit along with other healthy foods.

Schedule Your Meal Times

As a full-time student, your days are spent attending class, completing homework, and participating in extracurricular activities. As a result, it is difficult to maintain a regular meal schedule. Skipping meals, though, leads to increased hunger and overeating. Make sure to schedule your days in such a way that you have time to eat breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Also, it is a good idea to have access to a variety of healthy snacks. Most college students need to refuel every three to five hours to maintain concentration and energy.

Get Enough Sleep

College students are notorious night owls, staying up until the wee hours of the morning to complete assignments. To the best of your ability, you should resist this lifestyle. Most people need seven to nine hours of sleep each night. Failing to secure the proper amount of sleep leads to an array of health problems, including weight gain. Your body’s metabolism functions better when you secure enough sleep each night.

As the college year progresses, your stress levels begin to elevate. No matter how demanding your classes become, though, it is important for you to maintain your health. By using these tips, you may find it easier to navigate this frenzied period of your life.