We must take healthier steps

Ethan Hendricks
Staff Writer

The necessity of staying healthy has become increasingly clear to me this semester. And healthy doesn’t just mean not getting sick.

Let’s start off with the most important thing: Sleep. Even if a student manages never to get sick, eats right and exercises regularly; if he or she doesn’t get enough sleep it won’t matter.

Studies show that without enough sleep, the thinking process and reaction time slows, faulty decisions can be made, and your attitude is negatively effected. Bottom line: Get plenty of sleep.

Students also need to eat right. Instead of getting a pizza or a burrito for lunch in the cafeteria, opt for a healthy salad instead. Foods with a large amount of fat increase the chances of obesity. This in turn raises the risk of coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, cancer, high blood pressure and sleeping disorders.

It’s difficult as a student, but try eating a diet low on fat, moderate on protein, moderate on carbohydrates and high fibers (otherwise known as vegetables). While it’s not the tastiest diet, it keeps people healthy.

Exercising also is good. It burns fat and calories while also releasing endorphins, which can make a person feel happier.

While students don’t have to work out every day, at least three times a week would be helpful. An elevated heart rate increases oxygen flow to the brain, which allows for better performance.

Of course, there’s always personal hygiene — washing hands after using the restroom, sneezing or coughing. This will prevent the spread of germs.

Finally, remember to find some time to relax. Take an hour every day to put aside homework and responsibilities and relax. Read a book, play videogames, surf the Web — taking time to relax can reduce stress levels.

Together, all of these will keep student healthy and increase performance in class.