Healthy College Food

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When you are on the go, either running your daily errands, commuting to campus, or on a spring break road trip, eating healthy isn’t always easy. It is just so convenient to stop at your favorite fast food joint or the UC Plaza to pick up a sandwich, some fries, and a soda and call it lunch. Not exactly healthy food. But there are quite a few options if you want to eat healthy while you are on the go. Off Campus Mavericks wants you to be in the know about food that can make YOU feel better and help YOU to excel in your academics at UT Arlington! The Healthy Eating On the Go blog section is your space to get the information you need to improve your eating habits and to share with other fellow Mavericks what works for you as a student.

 

 

Snack Before You Leave

If you are getting ready to leave, eat a healthy snack before you take off. You will be less tempted to stop for a quick burger or to pick up a bag of chips and a soda at the store. Eat a piece of fruit, a yogurt, or even a handful of trail mix before you walk out the door.

Healthy Option – Grocery Store

While you are on the road, you should be able to find a grocery store close by. Grab some fresh fruit, or veggie tray for a healthy snack. Many stores these days also offer deli sandwiches and freshly prepared salads to go. Add a bottle of water too.

Healthy Option – Fast Food Places

Much of the food that’s served in fast food restaurants is not exactly healthy. But by making smart choices, you can eat healthy. Opt for grilled chicken sandwiches and skip the mayonnaise. Most of the big chains offer salads as well as side salads on their menu. Pick a low fat dressing and skip the soda for a healthy fast food meal.

Keep A Stash

Keep a stash of healthy snacks in your purse, your desk at work, and/or your car for those moments when you are really hungry and there just isn’t a place around to pick up some healthy food. Keep some trail mix, granola or protein bars, and some dried fruit around. It’ll give you something to nibble on until you can get home, on campus, or class. Also, carry some water to make sure you stay hydrated.

 

It is important to include food from each of the groups because:

1. Grains give your brain and muscles energy.
They are a good source of B-vitamins and iron. Try to include grains like rice, potatoes, pasta, and whole grain bread at every meal.

2. Fruits and Vegetables help eyes, hair, and blood and boost your immune system. They are a good source of vitamins A and C, minerals, and fiber. Try having fruits and vegetables like apples, broccoli, pear, carrots, squash, salad 5-7 times per day (2 1/2 cups of veggies and 2 cups of fruit).

3. Milk or Dairy Products help maintain strong bones and teeth. They are a good source of calcium and protein. Try to have a serving of low fat dairy foods like 8 oz milk, 1 oz cheese, 1 cup yogurt, cottage cheese, pudding, or frozen yogurt 3 times a day.

4. Foods high in Protein help build muscles, fight infection, and heal wounds. Try having beans, peanut butter, fish, tofu, or eggs at 2 meals daily.

5. Fats and Oils keep hair and skin soft and give a feeling of fullness. They are a good source of dietary fat. Try to include a little fat like salad dressing, olive oil, guacamole, nuts, or seeds at each meal.

Antioxidants Antioxidants

An antioxidant is a molecule capable of slowing or preventing the oxidation of other molecules. Antioxidants can help prevent heart disease and certain cancers, as well as keep your eyes, mind, and immune system sharp.