For many college students, staying healthy is hard. Managing a healthy diet and exercise on top of classes and extracurricular activities can seem like a major challenge. Many incoming college students dread the “Freshman 15,” or the process of gaining 15 pounds, or any amount of weight, during your freshman year of college.

Trying to maintain healthy habits, while it can be hard, is incredibly important while you’re younger so you avoid adverse health issues later on in life. College students are at a disadvantage when it comes to eating healthy: busy schedules lead to students eating increased amounts of fast food due to convenience, and dining hall food may not always be the most appealing, leading students to skip meals like breakfast.

Additionally, college-aged students have a risk of developing an eating disorder. The National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) estimates that 10-20% of college-aged women and 4-10% of college-aged men suffer from eating disorders. The question is: how can college students work with what they have and build healthy habits?

It starts with how often you’re eating. As hard as it can be, it’s important to eat three balanced meals a day. Protein is crucial for having energy throughout the day, no matter how you consume it: a protein shake, a breakfast sandwich, whatever you enjoy.

A 2020 study on the effects of skipping breakfast on college students across 28 countries conducted by two South African researchers showed that skipping breakfast leads to poor sleep, poor academic performance, and lower mental health. So, breakfast truly is the most important meal of the day.

(Contributed/redbubble.com)

Staying hydrated is also important, as dehydration can cause headaches, fatigue, and dizziness, which won’t help you perform your best academically. Knowing your resources is also important. A study conducted at Lenoir-Rhyne University in 2022 showcased that 44% of students surveyed struggled to afford food.

If you’re struggling to afford food, Bucky’s Food Pantry at ETSU is a great resource. There are three pick up locations: Buc Ridge, the Culp, and the ETSU campus at Kingsport. More information, including how to request or donate food, can be found by visiting etsu.edu/foodpantry/.

Remember: drink your water, and eat some fruit every once in a while. Your body will thank you!

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