Maintaining a physical lifestyle and getting the right amount of sleep is important to academic success, but many students ignore the importance of maintaining a healthy diet.
“The biggest issue we see here at the Health and Wellness Center is students skipping breakfast and eating a lot of junk food,” said Laura Hieronymus, nurse practitioner of the IU South Bend Health and Wellness Center. “These students are passing out in class and at the fitness center.”
Although students often become preoccupied with studies, work, family and extracurricular activities, it is important to remember that maintaining a healthy diet is a number one priority for optimum health and academic performance.
“Three meals a day is the gold standard,” said Nutrition for Health professor, Maureen Jamieson. “Snacks may be necessary in between depending on activity.”
Selecting the right types of food is also important. There are many healthy foods available on campus and many foods that should be avoided.
“Students should avoid the Walking Taco,” said Hieronymus. “It’s a heart attack in a sack.”
Although students should avoid sitting or even jogging with a “Walking Taco,” The Grille and the Courtside Café have many healthy options that will get them through the day and keep them focused in the classroom.
“Yogurt, string cheese, salads, turkey burgers, milk and oatmeal are all healthy food that can be found at The Grille or Courtside Café,” said Hieronymus.
Eating healthy food is a must, but, sometimes, academic performance calls for an extra boost of mental acuity and energy.
“There is a huge misconception that coffee and caffeine are bad for you,” said Hieronymus. “Coffee, caffeine and tea can be good if used in moderation. It heightens your alertness and it keeps you awake. People who drink five or more cups of coffee a day have a lower risk of stroke, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease.”
Students who are concerned about their dietary or general health and/or have questions and/or problems concerning their health can make an appointment to visit nurse practitioner Laura Hieronymus at the IUSB Health and Wellness Center. For more information on health visit the IUSB Health and Wellness website at www.iusb.edu/~iusbwell/.
Eating healthy improves academics
Published: Sunday, February 14, 2010
Updated: Sunday, February 14, 2010
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