5 tips for eating healthy from a nutrition major

Between class, work and extracurricular activities, eating healthy as a student can be hard sometimes. So we asked a nutrition major for some tips and tricks to make eating healthier easier.

Victoria Alanis is a senior studying nutrition and president of the Student Nutrition Council, a student organization that promotes nutrition and wellness at ASU and in the community through volunteering and education. She also works as a nutrition coordinator for ASU Wellness.

Here are Victoria’s tips for eating healthy.

The Pitchforks Dining Hall in the Memorial Union

1. Prep in advance.

When you have free time, pre-chop your veggies and fruits. That way when you’re in a hurry, your fruits and vegetables are ready to go!

You could also plan some meals in advance and prep over the weekend without getting too fancy. For example, grilling chicken and storing it safely in your fridge, hard-boiling eggs in advance, cooking rice or baking potatoes to use in soups or casseroles et cetera.

2. Buy in bulk. 

Healthy doesn’t have to mean pricey. You can buy in bulk to save money. Also, meatless proteins like chickpeas, beans and brown rice can be a cheaper option.

3. Buy seasonal.

Buy seasonal fruits and vegetables. When you buy in-season produce, fruits and vegetables are fresher and lower in cost.

4. Eat regular snacks and meals every day.

With academics and social responsibilities, our brains and bodies require energy to perform at their fullest potential.

Always try to eat:

Something for breakfast to jump-start your day

A snack between classes

A good, balanced, colorful lunch

Potentially other snacks in between

A healthy and relaxing dinner

Some snack ideas that are healthy and quick to make are peanut butter and fruits/veggies or hummus, yogurt and nuts. Try to minimize or eliminate consumption of caffeine in the afternoon and evening.

5. Don’t stress.

Be patient and kind with your body. Don't restrict huge amounts of food or exclude entire food groups. Fuel your body when your body asks for food. Love your body and always keep in mind that everyone is different.

Being healthy is a lifestyle, and it takes baby steps to find your own way of fueling your body the way it fits you best.

For more information on nutrition, visit ASU Wellness healthy eating resources.