Junk Food-Fight! Kick the Habit
Recent studies carried out by the University of Dundee claim that the average first year student can gain as much as a stone in their first year with increased levels of alcohol and convenience food widely to blame.
But with a tight budget and hectic schedule it's no surprise that students are often left reaching for the most convenient, quick and most likely unhealthiest option.
Ready meals are especially popular offering old favourites such as Lasagne or Chicken Tikka Masala as a quick, cheap and convenient meal.
But their hidden high levels of salt and fat can be harmful to your health causing an array of health issues such as heart problems, weight gain, poor complexion and lack of energy.
But don't panic! There is a way to improve your lifestyle and fend off those extra pounds whilst still enjoying your student life to the full!
We know its not always easy finding time to shop, cook and create culinary masterpieces in a tiny shared kitchen with the most basic of utensils and a lacklustre set of pots and pans.
But by learning how to cook some simple and fast dishes you can make healthier choices that will not only taste great but could help improve your academic performance, sustain concentration and energy levels, not to mention keeping your waistline trim!
So here's some quick and easy alternative recipes of your fried favourites that wont cost the earth or take an hour of preparation. And yes they actually taste good!
The average first year student can gain as much as a stone in their first yearUniveristy of Dundee, 2006
Aubergine Crisps - Cooking Time: 30 Minutes
Craving a fix of salt and vinegar, or cheese and onion? Have a go at this tasty snack. Bung them in the oven and season with your own flavourings. Voila! Crisps on the go.
Ingredients: Aubergine Method:Slice the aubergine into thin slices - about a quarter of a centimetrePlace on a baking tray with no slice overlapping another as best as possibleSeason with salt and pepper or your own choice of flavourings.Put in the oven at 200C for 20-25 minutes Take out once crispy and enjoy!
Turkey Pitta burgers - Cooking Time: 20 Minutes
We all love a burger, and with this healthy alternative indulge guilt free!
Ingredients: Pitta BreadTurkey MinceMethod:First take your mince kneed in a bowl until binded together.Add a pinch of salt and pepper to your own preferences. (For a spicy burger why not add a teaspoon of Cajun spice?) Divide the mince into palm sized portions and shape into a burger about an inch and a half thick.Heat a small amount of oil in a pan and fry the burger on each side for about 5 minutes until golden brownWhilst the burgers are cooking slice open the pittas and place in the oven on a low heat for a few minutes until warmed. Put the burgers into the pittas and serve with your choice of vegetable or side salad.
Muffin Pizzas - Cooking Time: 15 Minutes
Instead of reaching for the phone and ordering the double whopper for one, why not rustle up this cheap and easy home made pizza. Choose your own toppings and save a packet!
Ingredients: Savoury muffins TomatoesTomato PureeVarious toppings of your choiceMethod:Slice the muffins in half and lightly toast. Spread a light layer of tomato puree onto the muffins and top with slices of tomato. Add your own selection of toppings such as salami, tuna, peppers, ham, mushrooms - what ever you fancy. Season with salt and pepper or your choice of herb. Perhaps oregano?Top with cheese and place under the grill for around 5-6 minutes. Serve with a side salad of your choice and indulge!
So next time you feel an urge for a Maccie D's with a milkshake and chips on the side, why not flex your culinary muscles and have a go at one of these alternatives?
You'll feel healthier, fitter, full of energy and may even find you've saved some cash for those far more important nights out on the town!
So ditch the ready meals and get cooking!
