2008 Woodie Awards
Eating healthy is important for college students
Ryan Lands
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One of those responsibilities is to maintain a healthy eating habit and exercising. Students now have the choice of eating whatever they want instead of having their food planned and made for them by their parents. Also, they are now responsible for staying physically fit by getting enough exercise. It can become very easy for students to neglect their health, causing weight problems among students. This is commonly called "The Freshman 15," a reference to the weight that may be gained by students in their first year at college.
The main food source for college students is the cafeteria, where they may eat up to three meals a day. One of the problems students can have in the cafeteria is eating too much. The cafeteria is all you can eat, which allows students to continue eating even after they are full. Also, students may choose to eat the more unhealthy foods because no one is there to tell them what they should eat.
"Choosing the right foods to eat can be difficult because it's hard trying to make yourself eat the healthy foods and not just what tastes good," said freshman David Heyd. This is a common problem among students; even though the cafeteria does provide food with nutritional value, the decision to eat healthy ultimately lies with the student.
Another way that students can take responsibility for their health is by exercising and remaining physically active. Many students do this by playing sports or going to the fitness center. "I play basketball, so I get a lot of exercise from that, and I also do some running," said freshman William Kratky. Remaining physically active is critical to students in order to stay healthy, but it can be difficult to find time to exercise. Classes, studying, and other activities occupy a lot of time; so many students may have trouble making time to exercise.
Schools have begun to step up in taking a larger role in the health of their students. Organized activities such as fun runs and health seminars have begun to appear on campuses nationwide. Intramural sports are not new, but do provide an excellent opportunity for students to become active. These activities are important in helping students understand health and fitness how they can better take care of themselves.
"I like going to the gym and just playing basketball with friends," said freshman Jackson Chen. School facilities are great places to use for physical fitness.
Although trying to remain healthy while away at college can be difficult for new students, it isn't impossible. It is important that schools create awareness among its students to help keep its student population healthy. Providing food with good nutritional value, creating activities for students to participate in, and educating the students in health are all important steps in staying healthy. Schools play an important role, but it is also important for students to know that staying healthy is a major responsibility and should be taken seriously. Once students realize this, the physical health of our students will greatly improve.
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