There’s always been this stigma with college eating patterns, where girls normalize not eating enough. You might hear things like “OMG I only ate one meal today” or “I’m not eating before I go out so then I get drunk quicker.” This is not okay to normalize, especially because it can lead to an eating disorder.
It is understandable that we are all busy and caught up with work; however, it is fundamental to prioritize your eating habits and stay healthy while you are doing all of this. College can be stressful, but there is no better way to de-stress than taking care of yourself.
It has been known from nutritionists and dietitians that one should eat at least three times a day. If you are in the dorms and have a meal plan, you have plenty of options and dining halls to look through. For example, if you don’t like East Dining Hall all the time, go to Pollock to enjoy a variety of foods. If you have your own kitchen and are lazy to cook all the time, try meal prep! It is about being more organized with yourself so you can prioritize your meal time.
We all enjoy going out and eating with friends or cooking. It’s the perfect way to be in a social setting and nourish your body at the same time. So every now and then, if you don’t feel like eating the usual, go eat out!
VALLEY does not support the idea of not eating before going out. In fact, you must have food in your body before going out to drink, it’s so much easier on yourself and the people around you.
We as a community should start switching that unproductive “I didn’t eat enough today” talk. Instead, we can offer a friend something to eat or ask if they are struggling and how we can help them. On the other hand, if you are the one struggling and hear this from someone else, let them know that you don’t want to hear about it as it can affect you, but that you want to be there for them if they need help.
It is important to surround yourself with positive, healthy people when struggling with an eating disorder. Let’s stop normalizing these behaviors. Everybody deserves to enjoy yummy meals.
If you are struggling with an eating disorder there are resources available to help.
24/7 Penn State Crisis Line: 1-877-229-6400
Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS): 814-863-0395 (Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.)
Let’s share some love and inspo of your favorite meals by tagging us, @VALLEYmag on Instagram with your pictures!
