Acquiring a collegiate education is essential these days. For some, these are the best years of one’s life, for new friends are plenty and social life is exciting. For others, the burden of academics and also managing finances may prove to be a source of stress. In any case, many youngsters tend to dismiss the need for healthy eating and lifestyle practices when in college. There is little, if any awareness of the importance of consuming a balanced diet, creating time for exercise and getting adequate sleep.

Here are a few suggestions for staying fit in college:
Try to prioritize to the extent possible the consumption of healthy carbs that are rich in fiber. While many students do depend on the college cafeteria for their meals, it is advisable to follow some degree of portion control especially when it comes to the consumption of empty calories. Responsible eating and drinking habits are vital.

Try to budget for at least one fruit a day, even if this is not provided on the college menu. A small serving of dried fruits and nuts can also help to give much-needed vitamins.

While studying per se involves a lot of intellectual activity, the fact remains that students are sedentary for a large part of their days. Try to offset this with walking whenever possible. Also, always choose the stairs over the elevators.

It is very important to stay hydrated. Often, when we are focused on doing something, we tend to ignore symptoms of thirst. Do remember to drink water at intervals. Also, we often mistake thirst for hunger and tend to satisfy the urge by eating. As a rule, drink water first. If you are still hungry, then take a light and healthy snack.

Time management is key in college. Only this will ensure that you meet your academic deadlines while at the same time, not lose out on sleep.

Most graduate and post-graduate programs are very stressful and so it is very important to learn strategies to manage stress be it by working out at the gym, learning yoga, Pilates or even giving a little time to extra-curricular activities like music, dance, and theater.

These are just some ways to learn to handle the pressures of college life gracefully and successfully. The foundation to healthy living that we develop as youngsters are what will hold us in good stead in our later years.