The lasting influences of a college diet could make or break your body, literally.

Many students don’t realize the potentially serious effects of an unbalanced diet. The eating habits that college students create can set the track for eating habits in the rest of their lives.

The arteries of college-aged people could begin to harden because they lack proper nutrition. Breaking these habits can be a lot harder than it seems.

One may say that they will change their ways and start a healthier lifestyle, but the reality is more difficult than that. Not everyone is going to swap pizza for Brussels sprouts; it takes real dedication to make a change.

These eating habits made in the earlier portions of your life can lead to long-time problems if they is not controlled. The Rocky Mountain Collegian says, “Short-term effects of diets that lack basic nutrients, fruits and vegetables can result in decreased energy and focus and contribute to an unhealthy body weight. Serious, long-term effects include an increased risk of cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis and cancer.”

Eating disorders arise when one is self-conscious about their body and either over or undereats to an unhealthy extent. As a once 50-pound heavier woman I can attest that the move to a healthier lifestyle is not an easy choice, but one that will be appreciated later on.

In the dining hall students could make better choices rather than the always available pizza or burger. Swapping those “meals” for lean meats and veggies is a much better choice.

Off-campus there is a vast array of fast food restaurants waiting for college student business. Rather than fast food there are healthier options at grocery stores such as oats, rice, veggies, fruits, etc.

Making meals prior to the week and then freezing them will make it easier as well because you won’t have to prepare every meal and will be less likely to jump at the junk food.

While many students may not have the kitchens to do this, buying microwavable veggies or rice is a good alternative as they can be cooked in a short amount of time.

Here at Linfield the dining hall is not 24-hours like other schools which could promote late- night overeating. Having limited hours, while it may be inconvenient, helps college students in the long run.

Bash on Dillin all you want, but not being open 24/7 is better for students’ health in the long-run.