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            As finals loom before us (How did it get to be that time of year again?), you definitely don’t want to worry about getting sick. Nevertheless, it seems that germs love to nuzzle up in stressed out people. Here are some tips for how to stay healthy, even when as your body is combatting some end-of-the-year (what’s my Summer internship?) anxiety:

Number One: Exercise

Exercise has been proven to increase our physical and psychological health immensely, and particular during periods of high stress. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends a minimum of three, 30-minute moderate intensity cardiovascular sessions (i.e., running), and two full-body strength training routines weekly in order to keep up optimal health.[1] Now, most of us are probably thinking the same thing: Who has that kind of time, and especially this month? Even if you can’t commit to this regimen, try to allot some time in your day for a trip to the gym. Even something as simple as a one-hour Yoga session might do wonders for your body.

Number Two: Healthy Diet

Again, I know what you’re thinking: The Ratty certainly doesn’t permit me to maintain a healthy diet during finals. According to the Harvard School of Public Health, a healthy diet is defined as one that emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, plant-based oils, whole grains, nuts, seeds, lean proteins and low fat daily. Experts also emphasize the importance of reducing our intake of saturated and trans fats, refined grains, sugary drinks, sodium and sweets, as they contribute little nutrition with a higher concentration of calories.[2]  Even if it’s not possible to be a total health nut, becoming more cognizant of what you eat can help your body to ward off uninvited guests.

            In the grand scheme of things, women only recently gained access to birth control. Nevertheless, under-cover methods for safer sex have been around for a long time. In 1550 BCE, an Egyptian Papyrus existed to teach women how to mix dates, acacia, and honey into a contraceptive paste. Casanova’s memoirs tell us that he used sheep-bladder condoms and lemon caps in the Renaissance, in order to prevent his myriad sexual conquests from becoming pregnant. In the 1880s, a large cervical cap was developed which became the predecessor for the modern day diaphragm. Today women have access to a number of different methods of birth control-- all of varying efficacy and cost—that each come with their own list of pros and cons. No mode of birth control is 100% effective, save for abstinence. Even and especially in the 21st century, it’s important to keep in mind that no pill or patch is foolproof. Even the latex condom is only around 97% effective. (Here’s a shocker: they can break!) Check out Joey Tribbiani’s reaction to this news (and yes, in fact, they do tell you this on the box): http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pb8RYD0fjbg

So nothing in the Vegetarian line appeals to you. What next? Check the bar- is there shredded cheese? (9 times out of 10 the answer is ‘yes’, unless you happen to be at the Ratty on Sandwich Bar day. Then, you’re probably screwed.) If so, take one of the wraps from the Grill line (I’m a fan of the spinach or whole wheat), put some cheese and whatever else you want in the filling (spinach?  Diced tomatoes? Olives?) and throw it in the Panini press. You might have to wait for a bit longer- but trust me, the payoff is worth it. And, as an added bonus, I’ve made far more friends at the Ratty than I would’ve expected! Turns out that waiting to make a ‘Dilla is a clique activity. Kanye would be proud.  

Again this dish relies on the shredded cheese. Find some whole wheat pasta from the Bistro line, and- if it’s a day that the Ratty is offering spinach- throw that on top of the pasta. Then sprinkle some cheese on top and put the whole thing in the microwave. It’s not exactly fine cuisine, but it probably beats the baked potato that you were considering before.

            This week is America’s “National Eating Disorder Awareness Week”, dedicated to raising awareness surrounding eating disorders and ultimately preventing and reducing the stigma surrounding them.[1] According to the NEDA, “eating disorders are serious, life-threatening illnesses- not choices – and it’s important to recognize the pressures, attitudes and behaviors that shape the disorder.”[2] Last year, NEDA spanned all 50 states and 30 countries, and was able to raise awareness for these important issues by getting people involved in a variety of different ways. Helping out is easy: Participants can distribute info pamphlets, put up posters, register as a Volunteer Speaker, post on Facebook, and more. As last year proved, one small action can go a long way on the path to affecting change.

            It is estimated that 8 million Americans have an eating disorder today- 7 million women, and 1 million men. Further, nearly half of all Americans personally know somebody with an eating disorder. Think about that Brunonians: is there somebody in your life affected by Anorexia or Bulimia Nervosa? Do you listen carefully to what’s not being said, as much as what actually is? While many people condemn eating disorders as “fake” or unserious illnesses, you might be startled to know that eating disorders have the highest mortality rate of any mental illness. 20% of people suffering from anorexia, for instance, will prematurely die from related complications. With the pressure to be thin ever increasing, particularly via ads, TV, movies and magazines, the likelihood to develop an eating disorder grows correspondingly higher.[3]