What most college students miss the most from home is often food! Student’s diets are often inadequate, rushed and unhealthy. For those students away from home for the first time, here are some tips to stay healthy and increase your brain power:
1) Breakfast is the most important meal of the day- Don’t skip breakfast; countless studies show that students who eat breakfast do better scholastically. At the very least, grab a piece of fruit, some yogurt, or a piece of toast. At least it won’t be your stomach growling noisily all morning long.
2) Eat fast food sparingly- If you must eat fast foods, choose healthy options, such as salads, a baked potato,
or a submarine sandwich instead of fried foods, hamburgers and pizza.
3) Step away from the vending machines- Vending machines carry mostly unhealthy snacks. Keep healthy snacks on hand for the times when hunger strikes hard. Plain popcorn, rice cakes, and dried fruit are healthy and satisfying. If you have access to a refrigerator, stock it with raw fruits and vegetables.
4) If you want to diet, do it sensibly- Crash diets are never a good idea. Neither is starving yourself. Follow a sensible diet and include time for exercise. Diets that cause you to lose weight rapidly usually cause you to put it back on just as quickly--avoid these and, if you must diet, do your homework first.
5) Alcohol is not a food group- Remember that alcoholic beverages are “empty” calories, having no nutritional value. Drink sparingly, if at all.

6) Avoid using too much sugar- Stay away from foods high in sugar and use sweeteners sparingly. Being in college will not exempt you from tooth decay. Remember to see your dentist regularly.
7) Drink plenty of water- Most people don’t drink enough water. Drink 6-8 glasses a day to flush unwanted impurities from your system and hydrate your brain. Remember to drink plenty of water if you are exercising.
8) If you must eat in a dining hall, choose wisely- Most cafeteria-style dining halls also provide healthy choices, so choose accordingly. Avoid the fried food section but do visit the salad bar.
9) If you are cooking your own foods, prepare them properly- Keep meats stored at the proper temperature and away from other foods. Wash fruits and vegetables before eating them. Wash your hands after handling produce, especially meat.
10) Don’t skip meals- You will stay healthier if you eat a balanced diet and eat regularly. Skipping meals can lead to fatigue, weight loss, and an increased susceptibility to infections.
 
Follow these simple rules, and your college experience will be a healthier one.
 
Related Links:
Video: Vending Machines for Dummies from Health Guru
Healthy Dining Hall Dining from Kid’s Health.org
Healthy Eating in College: How to Avoid the Freshman 15