In college, a lot of things change. You’re probably not getting as much sleep as before and you’re eating different types of foods. You no longer get home-cooked meals, a kitchen to cook in, or have your go-to places to eat that you’ve been going to since you were little.
This means that you’re probably not eating as healthily and aren’t getting the nutrients your body needs. Not getting the nutrients and sleep you need can have a huge effect on your well-being. You’ll start getting sick more often, you’ll feel more tired, you most likely won’t do as well in school, and you’ll have much less energy.
I know it can sometimes feel like it’s impossible to stay healthy in college, but it isn’t as hard as it seems. There are seven things that I highly recommend buying, which will start making you feel better. The best part is that none of these products need to be kept in a fridge and all are easy to find.
1. Chia Seeds
Chia seeds are high in minerals, vitamins, and antioxidants. They are also a great source of omega fatty acids. You can add them to your salad, yogurt, water, oatmeal, or soups.
2. Hemp Seeds
Hemp seeds contain a rich amount of protein and omega fatty acids. They are known for being effective in helping balance hormones and in improving digestion and metabolism. Trying adding them into your salads, yogurt, oatmeal, or soup, just like chia seeds. I normally eat chia seeds and hemp seeds at the same time with my breakfast.
3. Nuts
An ounce of almonds contains 3.5 grams of fiber, 6 grams of protein, and 9 grams of monounsaturated fats. Almonds also are filled with antioxidants and vitamin E. Cashews are a source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants like vitamins E, K, and B6, copper, iron, magnesium, and phosphorous. They also contain protein and are made up of unsaturated fats in the form of monounsaturated fatty acids. These are fab snacks to keep in your room and have in between classes.
4. Vitamin C
Vitamin C is an antioxidant and helps control the immune system. It is needed for certain neurotransmitters to function properly and is involved in protein metabolism.
5. Probiotics
Probiotics are great for helping with digestion, weight loss, your immune system, skin, and urinary health. Although probiotics can be found in many foods such as yogurt, miso, tempeh, and kimchi, I would recommend purchasing a probiotic in pill form.
6. Dates
Dates are filled with different vitamins and minerals such as calcium, iron, potassium, zinc, magnesium, vitamin A, and vitamin K. They help with constipation, bone health, anemia, and energy. They are also a great guilt-free snack to have throughout the day.
7. Coconut oil
Coconut oil can be used in more ways than I can think of. It can be used for your skin and hair, for cooking, throughout your home, and for medicinal uses. Coconut oil is made up of healthy fatty acids and saturated fats. In college, I mostly use it as a moisturizer since I don’t cook a lot here.