Living on a budget is hard, eating healthy is hard and I am sure we can all agree that college is also quite difficult at times, but when the three are mixed together it seems almost impossible. We all want to stay healthy and fit while also not spending the few dollars we may be making while in college. Here are some tips for how you can stay on track while still staying on a budget.
1. Eat at the dining options on campus
Many of us, whether we are first-year students or upperclassmen, have a meal plan – use it! Choosing to eat on campus saves you time and money, and can also help you not overeat. Meals are well portioned so not only will you save money, but you’ll save yourself from a midday food-baby as well.
2. Take a piece of fruit for the road
Don’t tell the Metz administration I’m saying this, but it’s OK to take a piece of fruit for the road. Grabbing a banana, orange or apple on your way out of the cafeteria allows for you to have a healthy snack when the 3 p.m. hanger starts to set in, but remember, just take one.
3. Split produce with roommates
We all want to include tons of veggies in our diets, but they often go bad quickly. Splitting fresh produce with your roommates lets you both save a bit of money while also ensuring that the food won’t go bad before you have a chance to eat it.
4. Buy frozen fruits and veggies
If you don’t want to split food with roommates, or don’t have roommates at all, you can chose to purchase frozen fruits and vegetables. You are able to take out and prepare only what you want to eat and save the rest for later. Frozen fruit is also great for making smoothies to take for a breakfast or snack on the go.
5. Don’t drink your calories
I know what you’re all thinking, but I’m talking about soda, sports drinks and sugary juices. While they may taste oh-so-good, you’re wasting calories by drinking them. Always try to choose water to save yourself from those pesky liquid calories and also to help you save a few dollars.
6. Eat something before going to events with free food
One of the joys of college is the surplus of free food that comes with programming. However, this food is most often not the healthiest choice. Before you go indulge in free pizza or the MidKnight Pancake Breakfast, eat something small like a granola bar or veggies to fill you up a bit so you can avoid over-eating the less healthy food.
7. Invest in a reusable water bottle
Water is truly the answer to all your problems. Get a reusable water bottle to fill up during the day. This will allow you to save money on disposable ones, help save the environment and will let you track how much you’re drinking to make sure you’re getting enough water throughout the day.
8. Eggs
Eggs are cheap. Eggs are an excellent source of protein. Eggs are quick and easy. A no-brainer, right? Buy a few dozen every week for a simple snack or breakfast, and with the endless ways to prepare them, you’re sure to find a way you enjoy them.
9. Stay positive
Remember that you’re a college student. It’s easy to get thrown off track while trying to eat healthy, but that’s OK. If you cheat or mess up a little, don’t be too hard on yourself. Stay positive and keep at it.
By SARA BORRO
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