College can be a stressful time for a number of reasons, but one issue students are constantly struggling with is keeping a healthy diet while away at school.
With dining halls and numerous fast-food chains available on-campus at Penn State, it can feel impossible to find meals that work for you. Luckily, VALLEY has compiled a list of tips and tricks to keep you healthy and happy while dining in State College!
Stock Up on Groceries
Whether you’re living on campus or off, almost every Penn State student has access to mini-fridges and storage. An amazing way to keep fast food out of your diet and healthy meals in is grocery shopping. Whether it’s at the numerous markets around campus or grocery stores in-state college such as Wegman’s or Trader Joe’s, take time at the beginning of the week to stock up on fruits, vegetables, and healthy snacks.
Filling your dorm or apartment with healthy options will naturally deter you from eating out, and encourage you to reach for the veggies instead.
Find Healthy Snack Alternatives
When reaching for snacks at the markets, it’s easy to grab chips, cookies and soda. And while they taste amazing, keeping healthier snacks in your dorm every day will keep your body feeling fueled and happy. Some alternatives to buy are veggie chips, smoothies, cheese and crackers, and peanut butter and fruit.
Treat Yourself!
Although eating healthy every day sounds like a dream come true, in reality it’s not always possible to keep up a healthy diet. That’s why it’s important to treat yourself when needed to your favorite junk food and remember its normal to indulge every now and then.
Whether it’s grabbing a ShakeSmart smoothie bowl after you hit the gym or ordering your favorite coffee and pastry after an exam, don’t forget that you never have to stop eating your favorite foods completely. It’s all about balance!
If you have any favorite dorm-friendly meals or recipes you want to show off, post them on Instagram and tag us @VALLEYmag!
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