Staying Healthy on a Budget

It's easy to overlook the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle while you're at university. However, there is a strong connection between physical activity, healthy eating, and mental wellbeing so it's vital that you look after yourself on all fronts!

Regular physical activity has been shown to have numerous benefits for mental health, including:

• Reducing stress - exercise helps to reduce the production of stress hormones and triggers the release of endorphins, which are natural mood lifters.
• Improving mood - physical activity can alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety by promoting the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin.
• Enhancing sleep - regular exercise can improve the quality of your sleep, which is crucial for overall mental health.
• Boosting self-esteem - achieving fitness goals can increase self-esteem and body confidence, positively impacting mental wellbeing.

Healthy Eating on a Budget

Eating healthily doesn't have to break the bank. Here are some tips for maintaining a nutritious diet while watching your budget:

• Plan your meals - create a weekly meal plan, including breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks. Stick to your shopping list to avoid impulse buys.
• Buy in bulk - purchase non-perishable items like rice, pasta, and canned goods in bulk to save money in the long run.
• Cook at home - eating out can be expensive. Cooking at home allows you to control the ingredients in the meal you're consuming, while also saving money.
• Embrace frozen and canned produce - these options are often more budget-friendly than fresh produce and still provide essential nutrients.
• Limit processed foods - processed snacks and ready-made meals tend to be more expensive and less healthy. Opt for whole foods instead.

Check out my budget-friendly recipes below!

It's definitely possible to eat healthily without breaking the bank. If you make healthy practices a part of your routine, you will be maintaining your physical and mental wellbeing without even thinking about it! So why not get down to the Sports Centre and get active or try one of these delicious recipes out?