Sometimes you’ll have to get creative, but it’s doable!! Here are some tips I’ve learned after over a year of living off Hoover food.
Small Plates
The biggest deterrent to your healthy eating goals is the sheer quantity of food that is available to eat. Dining hall food is buffet style, so you can keep going back for more—even when you’re no longer hungry. To help combat this temptation, find the smallest plates in the dining hall and then put the food you want on these. Smaller plates help you to limit portion sizes and trick your mind into thinking you’re eating more because your smaller plate is full.
Start with Watery Foods
Studies have shown that when you begin a meal by eating watery foods such as soup, yogurt, fruit or salad, you’ll eat less overall. So, start your meal with a salad or a bowl of soup, then go back for more if you’re still hungry.
VEGGIES!
I know the squash medleys can get old (on these days, the salad bar is your best friend), but sometimes Hoover has some really good veggies—it actually has the best broccoli ever! When putting food on your plate, remember that you should roughly follow this rule: ½ plate vegetables, ¼ lean protein, and ¼ grainy foods and/or starchy vegetables.
Lean Protein
For a healthy lean protein option, the chicken and fish in the Char line are always good options. I like to have a piece of chicken with a big salad, or some fish with my veggies. You can get creative! No line is going to have all healthy options, but there will generally be one good option in each area.
Salad Bar!
On days when nothing sounds good, I always fall back on the salad bar. Hoover always has really fresh greens and lots of good toppings. If all you’re eating for lunch or dinner is salad, be sure to include filling, nutritious toppings such as chickpeas, beans or artichoke hearts. Go light on the dressing! These can have tons of added calories; I always stick to the balsamic vinegar and oil option.
Avoid Desserts Every Day
Personally, I really struggle with this one. I love sweets. If you do too, it’s easiest to just avoid looking at the options. Out of sight, out of mind. If you really can’t resist having something sweet post meal, try a healthier alternative. Substitute a dessert for a bowl of yogurt, a bowl of fruit, or a banana with peanut butter and Nutella.
While it is important to eat a generally healthy and nutritious diet, don’t forget to treat yourself every once in a while! Have some fries on Friday and treat yourself to a bowl of ice cream every now and again. You deserve it!