One of the top goals people have is eating healthier, especially with the allure of dining hall food and restaurants like RU Hungry on campus. Tips like drinking water before a meal, keeping a food diary and using smaller plates are recycled over and over on social media and health articles. The truth is that these tips don’t work for everybody, and sometimes it takes something more unconventional to start getting more fruits and veggies in. Here are some unique ways to eat healthy that are bound to bring a fresh perspective to the table:
Grow your own food
Photo by Benjamin Combs
This may be difficult or impractical for many people, especially considering the cramped conditions of an apartment or dorm. Not to mention the fact that college students don’t have the time to garden. However, I recommend trying to keep a small garden in your windowsill, even if it’s just a single potted plant. I personally have a small aloe plant in my dorm. It doesn’t have to be vegetables either; herbs and spices are also a great way to add flavor and nutrition to your meals. Another way to grow your own food is through the Helyar House and RU Ready to Farm Program at Rutgers, which allows students to learn about farming and grow crops in a greenhouse. Growing your own food means you don’t have to shop for it, and you get the satisfaction of eating something you worked hard to cultivate.
Counter unhealthy foods with something healthy
Balance is important when it comes to eating. Desserts and snacks are delicious for a reason, and they shouldn’t be something you cut out of your diet. It’s okay to gorge on an entire pint of ice cream or slice of cake every once in a while, but instead of feeling guilty about having junk food, counter it with something healthy. A leafy salad or glass of water does wonders to refresh you after a large meal. Even if you have eaten something unhealthy, at least you have the nutrition from something healthy you had afterward.
Research the health benefits of the things you eat
Photo by bruce mars
This is probably the best tip I have for eating healthy. As a lover of science, I really like to know what each food does specifically to my body. It’s really interesting to know the exact benefits of what a vegetable or fruit are. That way, you know what part of the body you’re helping. Had a cup of blueberries for breakfast? Blueberries are good for the brain, lower the amount of cholesterol in the body, and decrease the risk of heart disease. Researching the health benefits of what you are eating takes away the abstract idea of eating healthy, and instead makes it more intimate and personal. Your body is important, and healthy foods are what keeps it efficient and in good condition.
Reaching for vegetables over cookies or brownies is never easy. If you’re someone who has already tried many of the tips online and still struggle to eat healthy, hopefully these tips are a way to get you on track for a healthier and happier you!