Editor's note: In The WellNest Watch, master's degree candidates in the public health program at EMU's School of Health Promotion and Human Performance explore news, research and standard practices in the field of health and wellness.
Ruby Wyles is a graduate assistant in EMU's Office of Health Promotion. (Photo by Steve King)
College isn’t cheap, and free time can feel like a finite resource. For many, arriving on campus marks the end of well-balanced, home-cooked meals, replaced by an enticing array of quick, convenient on-campus dining options. Unfortunately, not all food is created equally, and the cost of fast food extends beyond your bank account.
Why eating well gets hard in college
It’s no secret that processed, highly palatable foods sell better than unprocessed, whole foods. Without parents encouraging variety and, hopefully, regular consumption of fruits and vegetables, it can be easy to fall into less nutritious habits. The abundance of ultra-processed food accessible at all times, as well as the dietary choices of those around you, can easily make less nutritious options the default.
Research links a varied, balanced diet with improved academic performance, greater energy and focus throughout the day, decreased stress and illness, and many more mental and physical health benefits. No matter your background, body size or activity level, a diverse, nutrient-rich diet will benefit you.
Healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring, taste bad or feel inconvenient; on-campus dining services have options to help. Start by including a source of protein, carbohydrates and two different vegetables at lunch and dinner. Focus on adding color to your plate, limiting fried and ultra-processed foods.
Save money with Swoop’s Food Pantry
Eastern Michigan University proudly offers no-cost food and non-food items to all EMU students and staff. Head to Pierce Hall Room 100 with your Emich ID to get started.
As well as being stocked with groceries to cook with at home, Swoop's Pantry offers plenty of ready-to-eat snacks and convenient meal options. Sort breakfast or snacks for the week with a sleeve of bagels topped with peanut butter, or go for oatmeal or cereal and milk.
Whether you live in the dorms or elsewhere, Swoop’s offers many meal options that take just minutes to prepare with only a microwave or hot water. Examples include a can of soup with bread and butter, a cup of mac and cheese with a side of canned vegetables, microwaved frozen pizza, or another ready-prepared frozen meal.
Save time, save money: Shop ahead
Save serious cash with a little planning ahead; swap quick and costly trips to the market or vending machine by purchasing your favorite snacks in multipacks ahead of time, then bringing what you’d like with you in your bag. That little bit of effort can save you significant dollars in the long run and reward you with time to spend in places other than checkout lines.
Eating smart isn't about perfection; it’s about making small, intentional choices that support your health, budget and busy life, one meal at a time.
Contributors to The WellNest Watch health column are Kegan Tulloch, Ebrima Jobarteh and Ruby Wyles, graduate assistants in the Office of Health Promotions, and Shafaat Ali Choyon and Nathaniel King, graduate hall directors in the Department of Residential Life. All five are master's degree candidates in the Public Health Program from the School of Public Health Promotion and Human Performance at Eastern Michigan University.
