Dear Confused and College Bound,

You are not alone with your concerns. Going to college is a big step in a person's life involving major changes. You and those around you may be living on your own for the first time, making decisions on a buffet of issues, including what to eat.

Eating healthy at college is possible. Many college dining services, now more receptive to students' concerns and dietary preferences, are offering more healthy and low-fat choices. But, this is only part of the challenge. In an environment where time, friends, and finances may combine in new ways, having options available only solves some of the puzzle. It's important to experiment with what works best for you. For example, that traditional idea of 3 square meals a day has been updated with a more contemporary concept of eating 5 smaller meals spread throughout the day. Steer clear of diets or fads, especially those that drastically limit a particular nutrient. Remember, balance and moderation win out over trendy and extreme. For some practical tips, navigate through the many options on Mypyramid.gov. Plan ahead when possible so you don't have to rely on vending machines when you're hungry; think of ways to incorporate fruits, vegetables, and whole grains on a daily basis. Eating more of these will fill you up and possibly even enhance your already stellar brain power.

Making time for physical activity is important, too. Most college fitness centers have a variety of movement classes and options. When the weather is right, grab a friend and walk, run, bike, or blade outdoors. If you are a Columbia student, you can join the 100 m.i.l.e. Club to track your physical activity each week. The goal is to get 100 minutes of physical activity each week by running, cycling, walking, or completing any of a dozen more activities which get you moving.   

Now, to address the second part of your question: an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa, is less about food, eating, and body weight. It has more to do with mental health, emotional, physical, socio-cultural, and family issues. If this is a particular concern of yours, you might want to take a look at Eating disorders vs. normal eating. Additionally, if you are a Columbia student, you can take advantage of a thorough health library on these topics, as well as access nutrition counseling and an eating disorders team through Health Services; call x4-2284 or log on to Open Communicator to make an appointment.  

Give yourself some time to adjust to a new environment and ask for help when you need it. Everything in moderation, even moderation. 

Alice

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