In the midst our very busy lives here at UConn, one of the many goals we try to achieve is maintaining a relatively healthy diet. This can definitely be challenging when faced with stress and the many delicious, unhealthy choices UConn has to offer. However Giuliana David, creator of the food Instagram account @withavocadoalways, uses social media as a way to keep clean eating and overall healthy living a top priority. As a member of SHAPE (Students Helping Achieve a Positive Esteem), FitUconn, and Page to Stage Theater Club, Giuliana runs an Instagram page dedicated to promoting clean eating, staying active, and positive body image.
Name: Giuliana David
Year: Junior
Major: Psychology
Hometown: Middletown, CT
Q: What inspired you to start this healthy food account?
A: I started it last semester when I was studying abroad in Florence, Italy. It was the first time ever that I had my own kitchen and the responsibility of cooking for myself, so I wanted to be able to make amazing food with a healthy spin on it. As someone who has struggled with body image before, I wanted a way to find a balance between maintaining a healthy lifestyle while still enjoying the amazing food that Florence had to offer.
Q: What message do you want to send to others through @withavocadoalways?
A: I want to show people that even though it can be so hard maintaining both mental and physical health, it’s definitely not impossible, you just need to listen to your body and figure out what works. I want to relay the message that you need to feel good in your own skin and to never penalize yourself for eating unhealthy. Keeping up with my food Insta is one of the ways I stay motivated.
Q: How has coming back to UConn (eating at the dining halls as opposed to cooking your own meals) changed the way you run the account?
A: The dining halls can definitely be challenging environments to work with, just because the choices can be limited, but I make it work. I just focus on hitting as many food groups as possible. I still try to be informative and inspirational while providing a guide of healthier alternatives to followers.
Q: How do you make sure that you have enough time to exercise and find/prepare healthy meals?
A: Some weeks it’s easier than others, it’s always changing depending on my schedule and classes. But when you find something you really care about, you owe it to yourself to make time for it. Sometimes I get up at 5:30 a.m. to get a workout in before my 8 a.m. It isn’t always fun but I don’t do it because I feel like I have to; I do it because it makes me feel good. It’s more than just eating or exercise, it’s about giving yourself time in your day to do what makes you happy.
Q: Favorite dining hall at UConn?
A: Definitely Whitney. Most of their produce is locally grown and they provide so many vegan and vegetarian options, like vegan pancakes! I love that I’ve been able to try so many new things.
Q: Favorite overall place to eat on campus?
A: I love One Plate, Two Plates. My favorite thing to get is Chinese salad which has peanuts, snap peas, choice of protein (salmon), kale, organic sesame dressing, red and green cabbage, cilantro, red pepper. They also have an amazing Agave BBQ Chicken Wrap.
Q: Why the name @withavocadoalways? What’s your favorite avocado incorporated meal?
A: Because avocado truly is a super food (in moderation)! Plus it’s super trendy right now. Favorite meal by far is toast with avocado spread and egg on top.
If you like what you see and want to fill your social media with positive vibes, follow @withavocadoalways for more inspiration and a guide to being a healthier and happier you!
All photos courtesy of Giuliana David from @withavocadoalways Instagram