As college students return to school, the American Institute for Cancer Research (AICR) wants to remind students that their daily nutrition and exercise choices could establish patterns for the rest of their lives.
To be mentally and physically fit, manage stress and develop lifelong habits that could reduce risk for cancer and chronic diseases, the AICR recommends students:
- Keep Your Portions in Proportion: AICR nutritionist Alice Bender advises, "Whether you eat in the dining halls, cook for yourself or eat out, focus on fruits and veggies. In the dining hall, head for the salad bar first and fill about 2/3 of your plate with veggies, fruits and whole grains, then choose a small portion of fish, chicken, or meat."
- Plan Meals Ahead of Time: Often overlooked, with student's busy schedules, but a little foresight helps prevent impulsive eating. Focus on meals that are simple with few ingredients.
- Limit Alcohol Consumption: There's a direct link between alcohol and cancer risk, so the best advice is not to drink at all. And keep in mind that alcohol calories add up quickly.
- Don't Forget to Move: Being physically active is important to maintaining a healthy weight. It can also help you reduce stress, sleep better, and improve your concentration.
- Get Accurate Nutrition Information: Check the college's Health and Wellness Center's website or pay them a personal visit ... Websites like USDA's MyPyramid offer free diet and physical activity trackers
Even though those tips are aimed at college students, they're also a refresher course for anyone who wants to recover from summertime lapses.
Photo by coolmikeol
