Being a college student is stressful. You have to keep up with all your classes, social life, clubs, and maybe even a job. Sometimes, and regrettably so, fitness just doesn't make the to do list. This article is all about getting in shape, eating healthier, and being your best self in preparation for the summer, and just living a healthy lifestyle in general. You can incorporate these 10 health hacks into your daily life without much thought to improve your lifestyle.
1. Take the stairs
Every Bentley student knows we have no shortage of stairs here on campus. Sometimes, myself included, we opt to take the elevator in Smith up to the third floor to reduce the hike, or we take the loop from lower to get to the academic quad. Don't do it. I know, it's hard, the temptation is real, but just take the stairs. Your body will thank you.
2. Opt for baked or roasted foods instead of fried
Seasons is filled with French fries, chicken nuggets, and other breaded and fried food of the like. Instead of eating French fries, there's usually roasted or baked potatoes. You'll still get your starch fill, but you'll avoid the excessive amounts of saturated fat from the frying oil.
3. Avoid Sugary Coffee Drinks
Instead of getting a vanilla or caramel latte from Einsteins, opt for a regular coffee or plain skim latte. Not only will you reduce your sugar intake, but you'll also avoid the artificial flavors hiding in the syrups used to make those drinks. Try adding some cinnamon instead for flavor.
4. Avoid foods high in sodium
Mein Bowl, I'm looking at you. Sodium not only makes you bloated in the short term, but having too much, which most people are guilty of, leads to risk of high blood pressure, stroke, and cardiovascular disease. You can read more about the negative effects of sodium from our friends down the road at Harvard.
5. Alcohol Swap
If you're over the age of 21 and enjoy adult beverages on the weekend, stay away from high-calorie options like beer. Though drinking excessive amounts of alcohol isn't good for you no matter the type, you can at least avoid the dreaded beer belly by opting for a lower calorie option like vodka. Just beware that vodka obviously has a lot more of a kick, so as always, drink responsibly.
6. Drink More Water
Your body needs hydration, and most people don't get enough. Take advantage of all the water fill stations around campus and carry around a reusable bottle to fill and drink from throughout the day.
7. Sleep Sleep Sleep Sleep Sleep
I know getting in eight hours a night isn't always possible, but give it your best shot. If you finish your homework early enough to get eight hours of sleep, don't binge watch Netflix. Just turn off the light and go to bed.
8. Actually Go to the Gym...If You Can
I can count on one hand how many times I've gone to the Dana Center this semester, not to mention how one of them was just for Currito. But I'm going to practice what I preach and make more of an effort to get to the gym.
#SpoonTip: You can take a cute gym selfie when you're there!
9. Take time for your mental health
Being in shape and having an amazing body is awesome, but make sure you take some time out of your day to care for your mental health too, it's just as important.
10. Be Confident
Like Demi says, what's wrong with being confident? So rock it!