Staying Healthy When Heading Back to Campus
August means shorter days and back-to-school for our local college students. Rogers Pharmacy & Home Medical Equipment is the official pharmacy of the Northwest Missouri State University Bearcats. We take our position with Northwest Missouri State seriously, keeping the health of our students and athletes in mind. Here are a number of ways to remain healthy when heading back to campus:
Eat right. According to the National Library of Medicine and National Institutes of Health, college is a critical period for young adults regarding food choices and their potential for weight gain. Some ways to eat healthily are:
- Eat breakfast. College students are often rushing out the door, making this challenging. Grab. a protein bar, a banana, or a container of yogurt. This will go a long way in keeping you from overeating throughout the day.
- Try not to skip meals. Even with hectic or erratic schedules, you always have time to grab a healthy salad or sandwich from the many choices available on campus.
- Late-night food craving? Try healthier alternatives to your favorite late-night foods. Consider pita bread, fruit, or a granola bar. If a late-night pizza is a must-have, get one with a whole wheat crust and vegetable toppings.
- Move your body. It is often difficult for busy college students to fit exercise into their schedule, but walking to your classes is a great start. Walking adds up to 20-60 minutes of physical activity each day. Most campuses also offer a student recreation center with a gym. Alternatively, many local gyms offer student discounts.
Get enough sleep. All-nighters might help you pass a test, but the amount of sleep you get matters. Sleep deprivation can lead to decreased mental function, fatigue, and even headaches. A good rule of thumb for college students is to get between seven and nine hours of sleep per night. If you find yourself tired, make time even for a short nap. Finally, it’s a good idea to avoid consuming too much caffeine as well as eating or drinking right before bedtime.
Stay Hydrated. Drinking fluids is critical to staying healthy as it supports every system in your body including your heart, brain, and muscles. Plan on drinking plenty of fluids before you begin your day, and keep a reusable water bottle in your backpack.
Get the Flu Shot. August is National Immunization Awareness Month. Getting your flu shot is among the easiest way to dodge the flu. While most college students have the necessary childhood immunizations, they still need an annual vaccine against the flu. Contact us at Rogers Pharmacy to inquire about which vaccinations we offer at our location.
Our college students need to stay well. Less illness means more wellness, which means more game attendance. Check out the Bearcats schedule! To learn more about how Rogers Pharmacy in Maryville can best serve you, visit our website or give us a call at (660) 562-2300.
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