Healthy Lifestyle | Tips for College Students on a Budget

Life as a college student can sometimes be so stressful that taking care of oneself seems unimportant. Whether you are cooking your own meals or eating at the cafeteria tables, checking what you eat is important. According to recent research, many students struggle with obesity and overweight issues. Mental health problems are also on the rise, with statistics showing that nearly one in every five people in the United States lives with a mental illness.

If you are to overcome the challenges facing college students, you need to take care of yourself and plan well. In this article, we offer some tips on how to navigate the increasingly complex life of being on campus.

Eat Healthy Food

The most important tip you can be given as a college student is to follow a healthy diet. Even the most health-conscious college students may be tempted to order takeout from time to time. Given the hectic nature of college life, there may be times when you will feel too fatigued to make a decent meal. Preparing your food ahead and having a meal plan is key.

Also, many students struggle with choosing healthy food because of budget restrictions. Even when operating with limited funds, it is still possible to eat healthily. Although the occasional snack may not harm you, always remember many fast foods contain excessive calories and some harmful ingredients.

Since it is important to maintain a healthy diet, try to make enough food for the next meal each time you cook. Prioritize fruits and vegetables when choosing your meals.

Maintain Physical Activity

Being fit is important, not only for your mental health but also for your physical wellbeing. Issues of obesity, which have led to a phenomenon referred to as the freshman fifteen, are very common among students. Excessive weight gains can be blamed, in part, on sedentary lifestyles.

Of course, we understand that when you have to sit in class the whole day and find time to study in the evening, creating space for working out can be challenging. To stay motivated, consider creating a routine or exercise in a group. You could also make use of the campus gym. Remember, physical activity does not necessarily mean lifting weights. You could take morning jogs or take the stairs to class.

Prioritize Sleep

It is okay to stay up at night once in a while to complete an urgent assignment. However, pulling all-nighters regularly can have serious negative effects on your mental and physical health. Our bodies operate on a circadian rhythm, which influences our overall wellbeing.

Staying up late regularly can increase your stress levels and may interfere with your academic performance. Take your sleep seriously and try to have at least eight hours of uninterrupted sleep each night. If you have too many projects, consider engaging an online thesis service for custom papers.

Plan Well and Balance Your Commitments

We know that being a student can be hectic since you will have numerous projects to complete. Some people choose to get part-time jobs to supplement their income. When there are tons of responsibilities, keeping up with the commitments can be challenging.

Always remember that the main reason you are in college is to study. This means that your academic obligations should be treated as a priority. Strive to create a healthy balance between your studies, social commitments, and work obligations. Don’t forget to create space for fun.

Drink Lots of Water

Keeping hydrated is another important lifestyle habit that all college students should embrace. Since you will be very busy moving between classes, you will need to keep your energy levels up. Carrying a bottle of drinking water ensures that you remain refreshed. Water is also good for improved digestion and metabolism. Your skin will also be revitalized if you make it a habit of drinking at least two liters of water every day.

Find Ways to Manage Stress

Stress is often an avoidable part of student life. However, chronic stress can have serious mental health implications and can interfere with your academic performance. Whether the stress results from an exam, assignment, or relationship, learn to manage it before it gets out of hand.

Professionals recommend having a healthy social support system — a selection of people you can talk to freely when things are bothering you. Also, you can always engage the student counseling department.

Here, we have discussed a few lifestyle tips for college students. Work on your time management skills and make studies your priority. Most importantly, always get enough sleep.