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The importance of nutrition
The importance of nutrition
Nutrition is often overlooked as an important aspect of college life that needs to be cared for. As a freshman, it's hard to follow a balanced diet, and because of the structure of the dining halls, it is very easy to reach for the same unhealthy foods again and again. Having nutrient-rich and fulfilling meals will do a lot more for your energy levels than you might think.
Additionally, many studies have shown the correlation between healthy eating and mental health, and while not the ultimate decisive factor, having balanced meals has been shown to increase overall well-being and happiness in college students.
Even though the dining halls may not be the best environment to encourage healthy eating, nor do they have the best tasting meals, admittedly, try to make the most out of them. Take them as an opportunity to eat in company and strengthening relationships by hanging out with your friends there. If you find it hard to enjoy them for their food, try to take advantage of them in other ways.
freshman Dining Hall Tips and Tricks
freshman Dining Hall Tips and Tricks
Urban Eatery
Urban Eatery
Don't forget about the upper part of the building! There's often some good food like yogurt or sandwiches that often go unnoticed
True Balance almost always has healthy and fulfilling food. There's will usually be at least something you'll like, and it's a good alternative to the many fried foods or pizza available
As a personal recommendation - the omelettes they serve in the morning are one of the highlights of this dining hall for sure, take advantage of them!
To get as much food variety as possible, try not to go there at times close to when they change the menu (currently 11:00am and 4:00pm), or right before closing time (either 9pm or 10pm depending on the day)
handschumacher dining center (hans)
handschumacher dining center (hans)
Learn at what times they put out and take away the food from different stations! It will help tremendously when deciding what, when and where you want to eat
There's a halal and a vegan section, keep an eye out for them!
Handschumacher Dining Center also has a fresh smoothie station and salad bar. These are great ways to balance your plate, and get your much needed vitamins and minerals.
Drexel nutrition Association (DNA)
Drexel nutrition Association (DNA)
The Drexel Nutrition Association (DNA) is a club you can join that hosts bi-monthly (twice-a-month) meetings. They are very involved in building nutrition awareness on campus, and it organizes many fun activities all around campus. If you want to learn more about nutrition, give them a shot!
maintaining a good relationship with food
maintaining a good relationship with food
The importance of maintaining a good relationship with food cannot be stressed enough. While healthy eating is benefitial, it shouldn't be something that consumes your entire life and thoughts. It's easy to fall into damaging mental and behavioral patterns that can really hurt one's relationship with food, and consequently, one's own mental health.
Always remember to be gentle and kind to yourself above all. You've already have a lot on your plate as a freshman (no pun intended), so don't let food get in the way of happiness. Put yourself first.
If you're struggling with your own relationship with food, and/or dealing with more severe issues like body dismorphia or an eating disorder, there are many resources out there to help you. Remember, you're not alone. You got this.
Balancing your plate
Balancing your plate
Harvard University School of Public Health published this graphic to help guide healthy eating habits. Especially at a buffet-style dining hall, it can be difficult to manage portion sizes and nutritional values.
When building your plate in the dining hall, aim to emulate the portions on this graphic. With each meal, ensure you have healthy protein, vegetables, fruits, grains, and healthy oils.
We recommend you explore each dining hall's menu each day. You can view the menu for all meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner), see nutritional information, and plan your meals for the day.
Drexel's Nutrition Services
Drexel's Nutrition Services
Drexel Dining has an on-staff, full-time dietician for student needs. Drexel's registered dietician helps students navigate food allergies, religious accommodations, dietary restrictions, and choosing healthy options.
Explore a spotlight about RD Alexa (linked here) and click below to schedule an appointment.
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