When you are busy with classes, assignments, and campus life, nutrition can sometimes take a backseat. But, what you eat plays a huge role in how you feel, how you focus, and how well you perform academically. Good nutrition helps keep your energy up, your focus sharp, and your mood balanced, which are all essential for academic success.
Skipping meals or relying on quick, processed snacks might feel convenient in the short term, however it can lead to energy crashes, reduced concentration, and a weakened immune system. Eating balanced meals, on the other hand, supports brain function, stabilises your blood sugar, and keeps you feeling your best throughout the day. Making sure to incorporate whole foods and a balance of food groups into your diet can make a big difference in how you feel day-to-day. Do not underestimate the power of small, nutritious snacks either — having options like nuts, fruit, or granola bars on hand can keep you going between meals.
Healthy eating and a balanced diet does not have to be inaccessible. There are several resources that you can access on-campus to support yourself in maintaining a healthy diet. To start, each month, the MASU offers students the chance to order $35 worth of fresh fruits and veggies for only $15 through Community Food Smart, a monthly food box program. This service is a fantastic way to get affordable produce, allowing you to add variety to your meals without overspending. I love using this program, as it provides me with a new set of ingredients to try every month in my meals! Keep an eye on MASU updates for ordering dates and pickup details.
If you are ever in need of extra food support, The Pantry is also available to all students. The Pantry is located on the second floor of the Wallace McCain Student Centre (room 282) and offers free access to non-perishable food items. The Pantry is open Monday to Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
In addition, Mountie Meals is a program designed to support students facing barriers to accessing food by providing them with funds to purchase hot, nutritious meals at campus dining locations like Jennings Dining Hall, Gracie’s Café, and The Pond. Students can apply through the University to receive funds on their Mountie Cards, which they can use to buy their on-campus meals. With the rising cost of living and more people finding themselves unable to afford the groceries and meals they need, this is a complementary service to The Pantry.
One easy recipe I always make when I am in a pinch for time is a veggie-packed stir-fry. It is quick, nutritious, budget-friendly, and easy to learn. Simply sauté some vegetables, like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots, in a bit of oil, add garlic and soy sauce for flavour, and serve over rice. You can add scrambled egg, tofu, or cooked chicken for protein if you would like!
Eating well does not have to be complicated. A little planning goes a long way — keep simple staples on hand, make larger batches of meals that you can reheat, and do not forget to stay hydrated. By utilising some of these resources and incorporating nutritious foods into your routine, you will set yourself up for success both academically and nutritionally.
