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This version of NSU News has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of NSU News, visit news.nova.edu.
This version of SharkBytes has been archived as of February 28, 2019. To search through archived articles, visit nova.edu/search. To access the new version of SharkBytes, visit sharkbytes.nova.edu.
Back to School or Off to College – Making Healthy Food Choices
Submitted by: Marilyn Gordon, Ed.D., RD, CSSD, LDN
Registered Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, Licensed Dietitian/Nutritionist
What puts fear in the heart of young children more than going to the store only to see the displays set up for “Back to School” items? Even college students, which have taken the summer off and basked in the sun at the leisure pool, begin to feel a sense of reality setting in. At this time more effort is spent choosing the right calculator, notebook, 3 ring binder, and professor but less attention is directed at future food choices.
All schools — public and private — have improved their food offerings over the past couple of years. Many schools have eliminated fried foods altogether and increased their offerings of fruit, vegetables, heart healthy, vegetarian, and vegan options. Some schools even coordinate the unusual fruits and vegetables into a classroom lesson plan.
There is an old saying: “There is no nutrition in food that isn’t eaten.” It is one thing to offer nutritious items in the school cafeterias and on college campuses, but if the students do not purchase and eat them, those foods will soon disappear from the menu. Parents can help by reading the posted menus and reviewing them with their children, deciding which days they will purchase lunch and which days they will bring lunch from home. Parents can also support the school’s and university’s efforts by encouraging the trial of new and unfamiliar foods. You will be surprised how food preferences change and expand once a student enters college. Sometimes students are able to choose from a buffet style cafeteria, a food court, or a fresh vegetable salad and fruit smoothie bar.
Let’s review what a healthy meal includes: one lean protein source (baked, broiled, or grilled tofu, chicken, or fish); a piece of fresh fruit; 1 or 2 vegetables (cooked or raw); and a whole grain: brown rice or buckwheat pasta, 100% whole wheat bread or pita, or quinoa. Finally let’s add a beverage: water, skim milk, 1% fat milk, or soy milk will satisfy their thirst.
Now is the time to plan ahead. What type of food service does your school or university offer? How can you assist in ensuring healthy eating for your child or teen? Good nutrition will provide the fuel needed for optimal brain function and immune system protection.