By Sergio A. Lagunas @salagunas
There are lazy choices and there are smart choices. Food is probably the most important item in the cost of attendance while attending a college or university. The choices you make as a student when it comes to the food you eat before class, after a long day or after working out will make a difference.
I personally try to stay away from drinks that have too much sugar. I never drank coffee in college, and I still dont touch that stuff. When I wanted to sleep or relax, I drank tea. When I needed to workout, eat lunch, eat dinner or a snack I drank water. In fact, people always ask how I stay up working on class assignments late at night. My response was simple. I drank cold water. Although, another way to stay hydrated is coconut water.
When it came time to choose my favorite vegetables, I would shop for carrots, bell peppers, mushrooms and cucumbers. If there was money left in my budget, I would occassionally purchase some avocados. For fruit, I would get the less expensive options. I would get bananas, oranges, apples, and pears.
Pasta was a huge part of my diet because it is very fast and easy to cook and prepare. Since I eat meat, I would accompany my pasta with either fish or chicken. My favorite spices for cooking chicken is black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and oregano powder. Fish only needs black pepper. And, I rarely use any salt in my food.
For breakfast, I usually begin my day with either oatmeal or cereal with fruit. And, right before going to sleep I would make myself a peanut butter and rasperry preserves sandwich.
I would save a lot of money by going grocery shopping instead of spending a week’s worth of groceries on two meals at a restaurant or fast food restaurant.
Food to Avoid in College:
These food items are very tempting when you are stressed out, yet they will make you slow down and what you want is to stay awake and get things done in college.
- Instant Soups/Noodles
- Chips (Corn Chips are ok)
- Soda
- Candy
- Cookies
- Ice Cream
- Doughnuts
- Cake
- Pizza
- SPAM
- Dollar menu at fast food restaurants
You will develop your own diet in college. My advice is keep it simple, and keep it fresh. Try to have snacks available wherever you go. You will have the energy to be a succesful student and you will create a healthier lifestyle.
University Plan 