Eating For Health

   

Whether you’re a first term college student, a seasoned senior knowing the ins and outs of campus life, a faculty or staff member, we have all faced choosing between healthier foods and foods that are just not so healthy.  One of the most frequently asked questions I have received deals with what  a healthy meal looks like.  My typical response is, “Your meal will emphasize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, & fat-free/low-fat milk products and includes lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, eggs, & nuts.  Also, try to limit your intake of saturated fat, trans fats, cholesterol, sodium, and added sugars at any given meal.  In addition to all that, you should strive to consume foods that are nutrient dense, meaning packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fiber.”  The next question to follow this response is usually, “How do I go about doing this?”  Well, I now have some examples of healthful, nutrient dense meals that will almost always be available in the dining halls.  The following meals are based on a specific percentage of carbohydrates, proteins, and fat, which is 55-60%, 15-20%, and 25-30%, respectively.

Keep in mind that these meals are not meant to be the only types of meals you consume, but are meant to help give you an understanding of what balanced meals look and feel like when eaten.

Enjoy!

Click Here for your example meals and more great information on how to eat healthy!