We all know how easy it is to grab fries and whatever is laying out in the hot line in the Caf. The hard thing is choosing to eat healthy in the midst of the unhealthy options we are given every day. No matter the season, it is important to stay healthy, so here are some tips on how to eat healthy in the Caf.
1. Know what’s available to you. It’s easy to get into a rut and get the same unhealthy foods every day. Branch out! Check out the salad bar and all the amazing fresh, healthy options there. Always take a lap around the Caf and weigh your options.
2. Focus on portion control. Look at the nutritional facts that are presented to you; they are there for a reason. An item may appear to be healthy, but when you load your plate full, you’re getting a lot more than what’s intended on the nutrition label.
3. A colorful plate is a good plate. Don’t just focus on one food item! Make sure your plate has lots of greens, colorful fruit, vegetables, and so on. And if you decide to get an unhealthy item, make sure to bal- ance it out with other healthy items on your plate.
4. Don’t drink your calories. Making just one change in your diet can be huge and letting go of sugary drinks not only helps your body, but you’ll feel great once you’re off them.
5. Drink lemon cucumber water. A great thing about our Caf is the fresh options presented to us, my favorite being the freshly sliced cucumber and lemons. Load some of these in your favorite water bottle. Not only is it a delicious combination, it also has many health benefits, including clearing skin, boosting energy level, aiding in digestion and weight loss, and so much more.
6. Remember, a happy body is a healthy body. Stressed? Often our first impulse is to reach for the comfort foods, but that could actually end up making you feel worse. If you’re stressed, set aside 20 minutes each day to be active (even doing some sit ups and squats in your room), and remember to keep eating healthy.
7. Allow yourself a cheat meal. Healthy eating isn’t a death sentence, and a healthy lifestyle allows for the occasional cheat meal. So go ahead and grab a slice of meat lover’s pizza.
Summer will be here before we know it! As easy as it is to get into the winter blues, remember that summer bodies are made in the winter. Stay healthy, stay happy, and look forward to warmer days!
