Hello fit-tastic readers!
No, I've not forgotten the blog life.
So far, fall semester of senior year has been one of the busiest semesters yet - here's hoping next semester's schedule takes a major chill pill. Amidst the craze, there's been plenty of writing (just not for TF&F, *sigh*). Between three writing classes, working as a marketing assistant (which I'm loving) and writing for the school newspaper, I'm certainly learning the ropes of the marketing and writing world!
Yes, I still have my health column in the university's newspaper ("Health Hacks") and it's doing better than ever this year. Usually, the column is solely online-based, but as of this week, it has made an appearance in print twice this month - woowee, Health Hacks! This brings me to my article topic for the day. I wanted to share with you all one of the two articles that made its way into print, "How to stay healthy at dining halls." Enjoy!
Let’s face it, sometimes the dining halls are overwhelming. With people walking or waiting in lines everywhere, it’s easy to get in a grab-everything-you-can-get-your hands-on mentality. Before you know it, your hands are completely filled and your table is one big pile of plates. To prevent overindulging and dilute some of the what-to-eat confusion, I’ve provided a few tips on how to navigate the dining halls the healthy way.
- Start your dining hall feast off with a glass of water. Besides being 100 percent calorie-free (unlike most drink dispenser choices), water benefits your entire body in multiple ways. To name just a few, drinking water keeps your face appearing fresh, digestion system moving at ease, muscles energized and calorie intake in-check. Fun fact: sometimes when you may think you're hungry and need a snack, you might just be dehydrated. Try drinking a glass of water prior to snacking to decide between cravings and reality.
- Decide on an entree and then build the rest of your meal. Treat your dining hall experience like dinner at home. It's likely that your family meals don't consist of a pizza, a cheeseburger and a couple tacos as entrees. Or maybe it does; regardless, start by surveying your options, decide on one, then build your meal. Try to include healthy side options — add steamed veggies with your chicken or a small salad with your sandwich.
- The dining hall isn’t going anywhere — at least until it closes. Sometimes loading up a plate when you're starving sounds like the best option, but hold out. First things first, finish eating one plate at a time. Still hungry after one plate? Venture back for a second.Consuming one plateful at a time allows you to realize when you’re full before becoming uncomfortable and stuffed.
- Don’t forgo your sweet ending. Did you save extra room for a little post-dinner sugary treat? Heck yes, you did. Being healthy doesn’t have to mean forgoing all sweets — small portion sizes are key. At the end of your meal, slide by the dessert station with moderation in mind. Take one oatmeal raisin cookie instead of three, or plan on splitting the cake of the day with a friend. This simple trick can leave you feeling guilt-free, while completely satisfied.
Now that you know the tricks, try putting them to use at your next E-Hall brunch. Remember, don’t feel like you have to kick that chocolate chip-topped waffle completely to the curb — moderation is key. Pair with a side of fresh fruit and you’ll be set for the morning, feeling not only comfortable and satisfied, but proud of your health-conscious meal choices.
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