Contrary to popular belief, student life isn’t just fuelled by Pot Noodles and alcohol. Nowadays, students are turning to healthier options, and with a rise in social media apps such as Instagram, snapping shots of healthy, colourful meals and making your dinner time a masterpiece has become a common trend. But being healthier isn’t just about the foods that you eat, there are other small changes you can make to your daily student life that will make you feel healthier and happier!
1. Have a protein packed breakfast
It’s all too easy to hit the snooze button, oversleep and be rushing out the door to make it in time for your 9am lecture. And when that happens, breakfast can often be forgotten. But if you skip breakfast, your energy and concentration levels will be lower and as you become hungrier, you’re more likely to reach for the unhealthy snacks and junk food as a quick fix to curb those cravings. So, if you’ve got a busy day ahead, it’s a good idea to fill up on breakfast. Having a high-protein breakfast will keep you fuelled and focused for longer at university.
2. Take a walk
For the days you’re not running late or in a rush, why not take a leisurely stroll to uni instead of automatically opting for public transport? Walking will not only help to keep you fit, but getting outside in the fresh air can do wonders for your mental well-being. It gives you the chance to escape and have some ‘me’ time, process your thoughts and clear your mind. Plus, your wallet will thank you for choosing to walk too as you won’t be spending on travel costs.
3. Plan ahead
When it comes to eating well and avoiding those all too convenient takeaways and sugary snacks, planning and meal prep is key. Decide on some meals you’d like to have then do a weekly shop so you have everything you need. And on a day where you’ve not got much on, spend some time in the kitchen cooking up some meals that you can portion up and keep in the fridge or freezer to have the rest of the week. Whether it’s a packed lunch in between lectures or dinner back at home in the evening, knowing what you’re going to eat in advance will save you time, money and probably your waistline too!
4. Drink aware
For a lot of students, it’s inevitable that you’ll have a drink or two on a night out (or a night in). But rather than going heavy on the pints or guzzling the wine, why not opt for a single spirit with a low-calorie mixer instead? This choice of drink has far fewer calories in than beer and wine. And when you’re contemplating whether to have that last drink of the night before you head home, you could always opt for a soft drink instead – a decision you’ll probably be glad of the next morning!
5. Sleep longer
Now here’s one you’re probably not going to argue with; getting more sleep. Yes, you heard that right, where you can you should try and sleep for longer. Getting a good night sleep while studying will do you wonders. You’ll wake up feeling energised and ready to take on the day ahead. But that’s not the only reason sleep is important, studies have found that losing just 30 minutes of sleep a night can lead to long-term weight gain in adults. So, it’s time to hit the sack a little earlier at night or when you don’t have an early morning lecture, it’s a great excuse for a lie in.
If you’re looking for student accommodation in London for September 2018, look no further than The Hive. For more information please contact us today on +44 (0)20 3551 2550 or email thehive@host-students.com.